In the rapidly evolving landscape of commercial space, satellite internet is emerging as a pivotal frontier, utilizing extensive constellations of low Earth orbit satellites to establish a global network.
Leading this charge is Zhou Bin, chief engineer at the Greater Bay's Aerospace Information Research Institute under the Chinese Academy of Sciences, who is spearheading the development of terahertz receiver chips.
As a deputy in the country's top legislative body, he is advocating for greater policy support, having witnessed its impact firsthand.
"While communication networks on the ground, such as 4G and 5G, are highly developed, they still leave many areas uncovered - mountains and deserts," said Zhou.
Satellite internet is crucial for today's digital economy, powering offshore farms, guiding autonomous vehicles, and ensuring communication in remote areas.
China's mega-constellations could see tens of thousands of satellites launched in the coming years. Yet, production lags behind demand, and costs remain high.
Zhou's team is working to close that gap with the terahertz receiver chip, designed using CMOS (complementary metal-oxide-semiconductor) technology for low-cost mass production.
"Terahertz waves sit between microwaves and infrared. They are safe for humans, as many are used in biomedical applications as well. We've completed the process of comprehensive testing and evaluation. The next step is full-scale production," said Zhou.
His team moved from research to near-production in just one year - progress fueled by strong funding and a deep talent pool.
These researchers are among the brilliant minds driving the growing space industry of the Guangdong-Hong Kong-Macao Greater Bay.
However, a significant gap remains between small satellite demand and production capacity. The challenge is not only about scaling up but also about standing out in a fiercely competitive global market.
Achieving this will require both technological breakthroughs and strategic planning.
China is leveraging its robust manufacturing base and open business environment along the southern coast, with Guangdong aiming to develop a 300-billion-yuan commercial space sector by 2026, advancing key technologies such as reusable heavy-lift rockets.
Zhou Bin is also looking beyond China, targeting markets along the Maritime Silk Road, from Southeast Asia to the Middle East and North Africa.
With cutting-edge technology, strategic investments, and access to global markets through Hong Kong and Macao, the Greater Bay Area is truly reaching for the stars.
China advances satellite internet development with innovative terahertz tech
