Consider a remote sensing application. VLEO satellites are much lighter and cheaper because the resolution performance is the same.
The first launch of China’s first constellation of very-low-Earth-orbit (VLEO) satellites is scheduled for this September, according to the head of China Aerospace Science & Industry Corporation (CASIC).
According to Song Xiaoming, the director of the Second Institute of CASIC, the launch of very-low-Earth-orbit (VLEO) satellites will validate and showcase important technologies like VLEO flight, high-resolution Earth imaging, intelligent processing, and direct information transmission to user terminals.
Song stated that, VLEO satellites have the added benefit of being less expensive and offering more effective transmission than satellites at higher orbits, enabling batch production of satellites and high-density launches. VLEO satellites are an altitude of 150 to 300 kilometres above the Earth.
Consider a remote sensing application. VLEO satellites are much lighter and cheaper because the resolution performance is the same.
They can quickly respond to emergencies such as natural disasters by capturing high-resolution images in a short amount of time, enhancing the capability of information acquisition. VLEO satellites in this situation have a lot of potential and high application value, according to Song.
“Competition in the fields of science and technology is on the rise in the modern world. In its 14th Five-Year Plan (2021-2025), China suggested developing a remote sensing space infrastructure system that would be effective and have global coverage.”
In order to accomplish this, CASIC will create a constellation of satellites that will operate at VLEO and provide performance levels that are competitive with those of conventional orbital satellite systems while also being more affordable and responsive. Song went on to say that the capability of quick batch manufacturing and launch will also support the constellation’s construction.
A state-owned company in China, China Aerospace Science & Industry Corporation Limited (CASIC), creates, develops, and produces a variety of spacecraft, launch vehicles, tactical and strategic missile systems, and ground apparatus. National initiatives like crewed space flight and lunar exploration have benefited from the work of CASIC. China’s top missile manufacturer is CASIC.