China Plans to Launch Massive Honghu-3 Satellite Network Amidst Concerns of Overcrowding and Debris

In recent plans submitted by Lanjian Hongqing Shanghai Technology Company (Hongqing Technology) to the International Telecommunication Union (ITU), details were revealed about the upcoming Honghu-3 satellite network. The network is set to consist of a total of 10,000 satellites operating on 160 orbital planes.

This information was submitted in order to inform the ITU and member states about the intention to launch a new satellite network, allowing them to assess any potential risks of interference with existing or planned satellite systems.

The Honghu-3 satellite network is China’s third super network with over 10,000 satellites planned, following in the footsteps of Guowang and G60 Starlink, both approved by China’s National Development and Reform Commission (NDRC). The first batches of satellites from these networks are expected to launch in the coming months as per current plans.

Due to its scale, the Honghu-3 satellite network raises concerns about overcrowding, collision potential, and increased space debris in low Earth orbit. SpaceX’s Starlink currently holds the title for the largest satellite network with more than 5,000 active satellites and aspirations to deploy up to 42,000 satellites.

Hongqing Technology was established in 2017 and is headquartered in Shanghai. The company is known for its development of Hall propulsion technology and is currently building a satellite manufacturing base in Wuxi city, Jiangsu province. Additionally, Landspace – related to Hongqing Technology – is working on a reusable liquid methane-oxygen rocket called Zhuque-3, which is expected to make its maiden voyage in 2025. China is also constructing a commercial spaceport near Wenchang to help overcome launch pad shortages and expedite the deployment of advanced satellite networks.