A subsidiary of Chinese vehicle manufacturer Geely has launched nine satellites into low earth orbit, representing the group’s first steps towards building a satellite network to enable improved navigation for autonomous vehicles.
The GeeSAT-1 satellites, designed and manufactured by Geely, were launched from the Xichang Satellite Launch Center in the southwestern Chinese province of Sichuan. The launch used a Long March 2C rocket developed and operated by a Chinese state-owned entity.
Geespace, which is part of the subsidiary Geely Technology Group, expects to launch another 63 satellites by 2025 with plans to eventually have 240 in orbit.
The company said that early uses for the fledgling network included working with logistic service providers to create “the first one-stop logistics monitoring service platform with real-time management and control of the transport process”.
The move sees Geely the latest big name to enter the commercial space race, with the potential of low earth orbit (LEO) satellites gaining popularity amongst developers of data-heavy technologies. The automated vehicle industry particularly stands to benefit, with LEO satellites making up the shortfall of 4g and 5g networks currently preventing mass adoption.
As well as supporting the company’s operations, Geely said its network will also serve other commercial purposes such as providing communication services at the Asian Games in September.
Initially, service coverage will be limited to the Asia-Pacific region, with plans to expanding global coverage after 2026. The satellites have an operating lifespan of five years and will disintegrate in the earth’s atmosphere without leaving any space debris, the company said in a statement.
The satellite network will be managed by Geespace from a network of facilities in Qingdao, Taizhou, Korla, Chengdu, and Harbin.