Shanghai is gearing up to become a major player in the burgeoning satellite internet industry with the release of its ambitious ‘Shanghai Satellite Internet Industry Innovation Development Action Plan (2027-2030)’. Unveiled by six key municipal departments, including the Shanghai Municipal Commission of Economy and Informatization, the plan outlines a bold strategy to achieve technological breakthroughs in several critical areas by 2030.
Key Technological Focus Areas
The core of the plan revolves around advancing network architecture and collaborative fusion technologies. Shanghai aims to focus its research and development efforts on:
- Application Task-Driven Network System Architecture Design and In-Orbit Verification: Developing robust network designs tailored for specific mission requirements and validating them in space.
- Direct Satellite-to-Phone Connectivity: Enabling seamless communication between standard mobile phones and satellite networks, a significant leap for global connectivity.
- Space-Based Computing Power: Harnessing the potential of computing resources located in orbit for advanced data processing and analysis.
- Integrated Space-Air-Ground Networks: Creating unified network systems that seamlessly blend terrestrial, aerial, and space-based infrastructure.
- Fusion of Communication, Sensing, Computing, and Intelligence: Integrating multiple advanced technologies to create smarter and more capable space-based systems.
Ambitious Performance Goals
To support these technological advancements, the plan sets specific, measurable targets:
- Achieve inter-satellite routing switch latency of less than 5 milliseconds.
- Attain a switching success rate of over 99.9% for inter-satellite links.
- Support space-based information reasoning capabilities.
- Reach a single satellite AI computing power exceeding 30 POPS (Peta Operations Per Second).
- Ensure seamless integration between ground and satellite networks.
- Support the highly reliable operation of large-scale satellite constellations and multi-network collaboration.
Ground Systems and Consumer Applications
Beyond core network technologies, the plan also emphasizes the development of essential ground infrastructure and user-facing products. This includes:
- Large-Scale Low-Orbit Satellite Constellation Ground Systems: Building the necessary ground infrastructure to manage vast networks of satellites in low Earth orbit.
- Multi-Mode Terminals for Consumer-Grade Direct Satellite Connections: Developing user-friendly devices that can connect directly to satellites, expanding access for everyday consumers.
- Unmanned Smart Applications Based on Giant Constellations: Leveraging extensive satellite networks to power advanced autonomous systems and smart applications.
A key objective in this area is the development of digital measurement, operation, and control systems capable of managing no less than 3,000 satellites within a giant constellation. This effort aims to facilitate efficient access and operation for ground user equipment and the satellite systems themselves.
Strategic Vision
Shanghai’s strategic initiative positions the city at the forefront of satellite internet innovation. By focusing on cutting-edge technologies like direct satellite-to-phone links, space-based computing, and integrated network solutions, the plan aims to not only enhance global communication capabilities but also drive the development of new applications and services. The emphasis on robust ground systems and consumer-ready terminals suggests a strong commitment to making satellite internet more accessible and practical for a wider audience.
