China Launches First Batch of Internet Satellites for Global Coverage

The 18 satellites mark the beginning of China's Thousand Sails megaconstellation, aiming to rival SpaceX's Starlink.

The satellites were launched from Taiyuan Satellite Launch Center using a Long March 6A rocket.
Thousand Sails plans to deploy over 14,000 satellites by 2030 for high-speed internet access.
The initial phase targets 648 satellites by 2025 to establish regional coverage.
China's space ambitions include multiple megaconstellations and significant investment in space technology.
The project underscores China's intent to compete with U.S. space dominance and enhance national security.