China launches 21st batch of low-Earth orbit internet satellites

China successfully launched a new group of low-Earth orbit internet satellites early Thursday, marking another step in its expanding space program, state-run media reported. The satellites were sent into space early in the morning from the Taiyuan Satellite Launch Center in northern Shanxi province, according to Xinhua News.

Mission details

Officials confirmed that the satellite group—identified as the 21st batch of low-orbit internet satellites—successfully entered its designated orbit. The mission also marked a milestone for China's space efforts, becoming the 637th flight of the Long March rocket series, which continues to play a central role in the country's growing ambitions in space technology and global communications infrastructure.

Internet constellation

The launch is part of China's plan to build a low-Earth orbit satellite internet constellation to compete with projects like Starlink. The system aims to provide global broadband coverage, particularly for remote and underserved regions.

Strategic context

The launch comes amid growing global competition in space-based communications. China has accelerated its satellite deployment schedule as the US-Iran war has disrupted other global infrastructure, though the space program remains unaffected.