China Mobile takes the lead with first 6G test satellite
Written by Simon Mansfield
Sydney, Australia (SPX) February 6, 2024
In a pioneering effort that marks an important milestone in telecommunications technology, China Mobile successfully launched the world’s first test satellite using 6G design architecture. The announcement, made on Saturday, places China Mobile at the forefront of next-generation wireless technology and further solidifies its position as a global communications giant. Alongside the 6G satellite, another satellite equipped with China Mobile’s 5G technology was also launched, demonstrating the company’s continued commitment to advancements in communication technology.
The 6G test satellite will be located in low earth orbit (LEO) approximately 500 kilometers above the Earth and will feature a distributed autonomous architecture for 6G. This innovative approach was jointly developed by China Mobile and the Microsatellite Innovation Academy of the Chinese Academy of Sciences. The satellite leverages indigenous software and hardware to support in-orbit software reconfiguration, flexible deployment of core network functions, and automated management. This capability represents a breakthrough in improving the efficiency and reliability of in-orbit operations for satellite core networks.
As demonstrated in this effort, one of the key advantages of LEO satellites is their ability to achieve low latency and high data transfer rates. These characteristics are especially beneficial compared to high orbit satellites, which operate at much greater distances from Earth. LEO satellites, like the one launched by China Mobile, can significantly improve the quality and speed of satellite internet services by operating close to the earth’s surface, offering a promising solution to the communication signal coverage gap in terrestrial mobile networks. To do.
China Mobile’s commitment to 6G and advanced satellite technology highlights the potential for a future where integrated space and ground networks play a key role in global telecommunications. The company envisions these experimental satellites as a pivotal platform for developing high-bandwidth satellite Internet services around the world, providing faster, more reliable access to remote and underserved areas. Meet the ever-increasing demand for high internet access.
In line with its strategic vision, China Mobile announced plans to conduct in-orbit experiments based on these test satellites. Its aim is to accelerate the integration and development of technology industries from space to ground, paving the way for seamless connectivity and enhanced communications services around the world.
This announcement not only demonstrates China Mobile’s leadership and innovation in the telecommunications industry, but also marks an important step towards realizing 6G technology. As the world increasingly focuses on integrating terrestrial and extraterrestrial networks, efforts such as this are critical in shaping the future of global telecommunications.
China Mobile’s cooperation with the Microsatellite Innovation Academy of the Chinese Academy of Sciences leverages cutting-edge domestic technology and demonstrates the synergy of China’s technological ambitions and its capabilities. As the communications industry watches closely, the results of these in-orbit experiments are poised to influence the direction of future communications technologies, including the anticipated transition from 5G to 6G networks. .
The global communications landscape is on the brink of a new era as China Mobile ventures further into uncharted territory with 6G satellite technology. The success of these experimental satellites could herald more integrated, efficient and comprehensive communications solutions, strengthening China Mobile’s position as a pioneer in the communications field.
Related Links
China National Space Administration
satellite-based internet technology
