China launched the first satellite constellation network to counter Starlink.
A Chinese state-owned enterprise successfully placed 18 satellites into orbit to counter its own version of US firm SpaceX’s Starlink network.
The low Earth orbit (LEO) satellites have been launched by Shanghai Spacecom Satellite Technology (SSST) from Taiyuan Satellite Launch Center in the northern Shanxi province.
The satellites were carried through the Long March 6 rocket.
SpaceX’s commercial broadband constellation has about 5,500 LEO satellites in space.
It will provide internet to consumers, companies and government agencies.
Low Earth orbit operates at altitudes of 300 km to 2,000 km from the Earth’s surface.
