|
The
satellites were launched from the Xichang Satellite Launch
Center in the southwestern province of Sichuan, Geely said in a
statement sent to Reuters.
Geely said it expects 72 to be in orbit by 2025 and eventually
plans to have a constellation of 240.
The first launch was conducted in June 2022.
In addition to providing high-precision positioning support to
self-driving cars, Geely said its network will also serve other
commercial functions such as connectivity to the consumer
electronics sector.
The satellites have AI remote sensing functions, providing 1-5
meter (3.2-16.4 ft) clear high-resolution remote sensing
imaging, the company said.
China's satellite networks are dominated by its military but the
government began to allow private investment in the country's
space industry in 2014. Since then, commercial companies, some
backed by local governments, have rushed into the sector, with
the majority focusing on making satellites and the rest
attempting to build small launch vehicles including reusable
rockets.
In its latest five-year plan for 2021-2025, Beijing has called
for an integrated network of satellites for communications,
remote sensing and navigation. China has more than 400
satellites deployed in space, including commercially owned
satellites, according to state media.
(Reporting by Zhang Yan; Writing by Engen Tham and Luoyan Liu;
Editing by Jacqueline Wong)
[© 2024 Thomson Reuters. All rights
reserved.]
This material may not be published,
broadcast, rewritten or redistributed.
Thompson Reuters is solely responsible for this content.
|
|
