Chinese Reusable Rocket Firm Joins Forces For New MEO Satellite Network

In a move that highlights China's growing ambitions in space, Chinese rocket developer Space Epoch has signed a strategic partnership with satellite operator Shifang Xinglian. This collaboration aims to establish a new constellation of satellites orbiting in Medium Earth Orbit (MEO).

The agreement was formalized during a signing ceremony in Beijing on May 23rd. Top officials from both companies, including Beijing Jianyuan Technology Co., Ltd. (also known as Space Epoch or Sepoch) and Shifang Xinglian (Suzhou) Aerospace Technology Co., Ltd. (Shifang Xinglian), were present.

This partnership signifies China's expanding presence in the commercial space sector, backed by strong government support. Space Epoch is renowned for developing medium and large, fully reusable rockets similar to SpaceX's Starship, albeit on a smaller scale. Their flagship project, the 64-meter-tall XZY-1 rocket, boasts the capability of launching 6,500 kilograms into a sun-synchronous orbit at an altitude of 1,100 kilometers. The launch vehicle leverages thin-walled stainless steel and is designed for multiple reuses.

Specific details regarding the MEO constellation remain undisclosed. MEO satellites typically operate between 2,000 kilometers and 20,000 kilometers above the Earth's surface. This orbital range offers certain advantages over traditional Low-Earth Orbit (LEO) constellations, potentially providing wider coverage and lower latency for applications like navigation, broadband internet access, and mobile communications.

"The intent behind this collaboration further illustrates the increasing number of players involved in launch services and constellation development within China," said a space industry analyst interviewed by SpaceNews [1].

This strategic alliance between Space Epoch and Shifang Xinglian underscores China's determination to become a major force in the global space industry. With reusable launch technologies and ambitious satellite constellations, China is poised to significantly impact the future of space exploration and commercial space endeavors.