China launches group of 18 communication satellites in Qianfan network

Previously known as the G60 network, the Qianfan megaconstellation network is intended for providing high-speed, secure and reliable broadband internet services to users around the world and is designed to consist of as many as more than 10,000 satellites travelling in low-altitude orbits before the end of 2030, according to SpaceSail, the network's operator in Shanghai.

The first 18 Qianfan satellites, which were designed and built by the Chinese Academy of Sciences' Innovation Academy for Microsatellites in Shanghai, were launched by a Long March 6A rocket from the Taiyuan spaceport in early August.