China to build space traffic system as low orbit gets crowded with 100,000 satellites

With 100,000 satellites coming, China drafts orbit rules (Image: AI)

Low Earth orbit is quickly getting a bit crowded. With thousands of satellites already circling Earth, officials now warn of chaos. China is stepping in with a bold new plan.

Rising concerns over low Earth orbit congestion
The China National Space Administration (CNSA) has revealed plans. It wants a space traffic system to organise satellite movement. This comes as projections warn of overcrowded orbital pathways. Officials say 100,000 satellites could be launched soon. Without coordination, the sky could become a junkyard.

The system aims to streamline satellite placement and operations. CNSA officials stress the need for sustainable satellite deployment. They fear overlapping missions may slow industry growth. This was reported by the South China Morning Post.

The Chinese government will support the private space sector. Dozens of firms are now launching satellite mega-constellations. Industry data shows 58 satellite plants across the country. Some are already active, others are still being planned. By 2025, China could build 5,000 satellites yearly.

Among major projects, Spacecom is building G60 Starlink. This network will eventually launch around 15,000 satellites. By year-end, 648 satellites are expected in orbit. China Satellite Network’s Guowang project plans 12,992 units. LandSpace’s Honghu-3 project will add another 10,000 satellites.

China’s ambitions also extend to the Moon’s orbit. A 2023 proposal outlined an Earth-Moon satellite network. This system would offer live communications for global users. It may allow 20 people to chat in space. Photos, audio and videos would be shared in real-time.

CNSA launches space alliance to guide commercial sector
CNSA recently launched the Commercial Space Innovation Alliance. It aims to tackle key challenges in space development. This includes resource use, safety rules and poor coordination.

The alliance will link firms with state-run tech experts. Government experience will guide private rocket and satellite makers. Faster launches and better networking are top priorities. Safety in orbit and international cooperation also matter.

A special focus will be on satellite collision prevention. Coordination between satellites will be crucial in the future. Officials say joint services and shared data will help. International links must work without creating orbital risks.

The alliance will also open national testing facilities. These centres were once limited to government space projects. Commercial firms can now use these labs for trials.

Sandbox environments may drive space innovation
Another new idea is the creation of sandboxes. These are spaces for testing risky space operations. National teams will lead, but firms can join. Results will become tools for commercial use quickly.

Chinese officials believe this move will boost innovation. The government hopes it will speed up industry growth. With more access, private firms can experiment faster. This may help China stay ahead in space.