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Oyinlola Awofisayo
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A Chinese satellite has established a new record by transmitting data from a distance of 36,000 km utilizing a 2-watt laser, reaching speeds of 1 Gbps. This breakthrough led to viral assertions that it had "pulverized" Starlink satellites. However, these claims are completely unfounded. The laser was intended for communication purposes, not for combat, and no satellites were damaged.
Chinese researchers have established a new benchmark in satellite communication by successfully transmitting data from a satellite positioned in geostationary orbit utilizing a low-powered laser. The test conducted in July 2025 transmitted data over a distance of 36,000 km with merely a 2-watt laser beam, achieving speeds of 1 Gbps, which is approximately five times faster than the average speeds on Elon Musk’s Starlink network, as reported by the Economic Times.
The experiment was executed by scientists from Peking University and the Chinese Academy of Sciences. It employed a combination of adaptive optics and mode diversity reception to rectify distortions and uphold signal quality, despite the presence of atmospheric interference. Misinformation circulated online alleging that China had employed the laser to destroy or damage Starlink satellites.
These assertions have been confirmed as false, according to the Economic Times. The experiment was solely focused on data transmission and not on weaponry. No satellites were harmed or targeted during the test, as indicated by the reports.
The laser operated in the near-infrared spectrum and was aimed at a ground station. Despite its low power, which was less than a household lightbulb, it delivered high-speed data through Earth’s atmosphere.
Although this test was conducted without incident, US defense officials have expressed concerns regarding China's expanding capabilities in space. General Chance Saltzman of the US Space Force has highlighted issues related to China's advancement in anti-satellite technologies, which encompass lasers, electronic jammers, cyberattacks, and kinetic weapons, as reported by the Economic Times.
The achievement of this test indicates that optical communications could represent a significant advancement in satellite technology. Furthermore, it may lessen the necessity for extensive constellations of low-Earth orbit satellites such as Starlink or Amazon's Kuiper.