John Gass’ Post

China's Satellite Internet Race Heats Up: Shanghai Takes the Lead https://lnkd.in/gJiXScY5 This is a great article discussing the growing competition in China's satellite internet industry, particularly the race to build low-orbit satellite constellations. Here are the key takeaways: China's Slow Start: While China initially announced plans for constellations like "Hongyun Project" and "Hongyan Constellation" in 2018, progress stalled. Shanghai Steps Up: Shanghai's "G60 Starlink" project, led by Yuanxin Satellite, has become a major player. Yuanxin's recent record-breaking funding round is a sign of growing investor confidence. Speed is Key: With limited orbital resources and radio frequencies available, countries are in a race to launch constellations first. Challenges Remain: Challenges include high satellite manufacturing costs, limited launch capacity, and the need to establish a commercially viable business model. The article concludes by highlighting the pressure on China's space players, particularly Star Network and Yuanxin Satellite, to meet ambitious launch targets and establish a sustainable satellite internet business.

I do love my space flair! Apparently, there is a commemorative pin and refrigerator magnet box for the upcoming launch of the next series of satellites in the Apocalypse IOT constellation by Guodian Gaoke. (Not the best name of a satellite constellation! - more info on Apocalypse here -- https://lnkd.in/e6-aCqdD) https://lnkd.in/e3ZXskHd (modian is a crowdfunding site in China.)

Interestingly, the US Ambassador to China would point the finger at China for the lack of space collaboration. I understand the concerns of the US, but it is essential to build trust by addressing those concerns forthrightly. https://lnkd.in/etmqpBYs

The Women Engineered SATellite’ (WESAT), designed fully under the supervision of women, was launched on the recent PSLV mission. WESAT measures the ultraviolet (UV) index of the sun and also study UV radiation effects on Earth. It is great to see India pushing STEM and diversity in space developments. (Yes, I know there are 5 older guys in the center crowding out the three female students--some things transcend cultures! 😁 ) https://lnkd.in/efh8x__b

Reusable rockets are overrated! ;-) It is more fun to watch them crash into the countryside.

HEO is knocking it out of the park with its non-Earth imaging masterpieces. In this field, advances in AAA (Automation, Augmentation, and AI) will provide more significant insights at the speed of need. So glad Nate Notargiacomo is leading the charge as head of HEO USA!

Chance Saltzman about Victus Nox, "5 days from warehouse to operations...now that's what I call Rapid"

Excited for the start of the space power conference! Great line up of speakers and some of the best people I know!

Interestingly, Iran is still sending animals into space--the first was reportedly a monkey in 2013. Their space ambitions have been hampered by a lack of a successful, domestic space launch vehicle that can place much more than 50 kg into orbit. Tehran's ambitious 10-year space program depends on solid cooperation from Russia--not just in launching satellites like Moscow did last year, but in supporting its human space flight aspirations with technology and know-how. The concern is how much Russia's assistance will aid Iran's space launch vehicle program, thus enhancing its ICBM capabilities. https://lnkd.in/dciRN59q

Japan joining the 5-Eyes would be interesting. It is difficult to point the counterintelligence risk finger at any nation with so many fingers pointing back! Becoming the 6th Eye would only bolster the growing partnership with Japan in space. I hope the lively debate concludes soon and we all move forward!