MERICS Closed-door Workshop: China’s ambitions and advances in space-based internet

On Wednesday, September 10, from 12.30 to 17.30 CEST (06:30-11:30 ET), MERICS will hold a closed-door workshop discussion titled “China’s ambitions and advances in space-based internet”. The workshop is part of a three-year research project called "The China Tech Observatory" which is funded by the German Federal Ministry of Research, Technology and Space (BMFTR).

China aims to become a leading space power by 2045 as the country is rapidly expanding its presence across low, medium and geostationary Earth orbits. This expansion is driven by a nationwide strategy encompassing military, commercial, and industrial objectives. China’s goal is to establish a comprehensive and self-sufficient space-based internet for civilian and military uses. The development of satellite constellations is backed by substantial investments and involves an entire industry ecosystem of state-owned enterprises (SOEs) and private companies. One recent example of China's rapid technological progress is a proof-of-concept for a 100Gbps data transmission from a satellite.

This hybrid workshop will gather experts, industry representatives and government officials to discuss and assess the broad spectrum of PRC strategic objectives, industrial policies and technological progress related to internet satellites and space-based communications. Participants will also explore the ecosystem underpinning China’s ambitions, the role of the military, lesson learnt in terms of European-Chinese collaboration and competition as well as implications for the EU as a whole.

Please note that the meeting is confidential and by personal invitation only.