China unveiled a program on Wednesday for a new-generation space situational awareness constellation, aimed at creating a globally covered and rapidly responsive monitoring network in near-Earth orbit to enhance space environment safety.
The constellation, named "EYESAT", will consist of 156 satellites, with launches scheduled to begin in the first half of 2026.
The satellites will be equipped with wide-field cameras, infrared cameras, imaging cameras, electromagnetic monitoring devices, multispectral cameras, computing units, and intelligent processing software.
Once fully operational, the system will detect, track, identify and catalog on-orbit satellites, while also monitoring space debris. By analyzing satellite orbital data and predicting collision risks, it will provide precise and efficient data services for space traffic management .
This capability is designed to effectively address the growing challenges of space traffic congestion and debris risks, thereby ensuring greater safety for space operations.
"The primary function of the space awareness constellation is to collect data from both space debris and operating satellites. The data will be analyzed and offered to active satellites in orbit to prevent them from colliding with one another, or with debris," said Hu Yu, head of the EYESAT space situational awareness constellation program.
China unveils new-gen space situational awareness constellation for space traffic management
China unveils new-gen space situational awareness constellation for space traffic management
Fueled by expanded visa waiver policies and improved visitor services, Shanghai's inbound tourism is surging this summer.
Beyond shopping, growing numbers of international visitors are embracing the "China Chic" trend, exploring revitalized historic landmarks and time-honored brands to experience the city's rich cultural heritage and modern evolution.
Along Nanjing Road, the century-old eyewear brand Wu Liangcai Optical has partnered with the Shanghai Museum’s summer exhibition, Ancient Civilizations of the Americas.
Its nearly 1,000-square-meter flagship store has been transformed into a vibrant cultural destination, blending retail with art to attract overseas visitors.
"So I think the idea is very nice, like to put the whole kind of traditional Maya into merchandise, it's very interesting. And I think the design is very nice as well. I think it's the first time I ever taste corn ice cream, and it's very nice, delicate, not too sweet, very good. See the culture, the food, the people, I think that's the most interesting thing. So, I think I would expect in China, in a city like Shanghai to see all the cultures, to see all the things," said James, a visitor from Britain.
Nearby, a historic building on the Bund is hosting an immersive Song Dynasty (960-1279) exhibition, combining classical paintings, life-sized sets, and dynamic light installations to offer international visitors a deeper appreciation of China's cultural heritage.
"The most I like was the Sun Wukong, because it's one of the most famous in the international places. Yeah, I really like how the Chinese they can put all the products, they can make art with the culture, and then they can spread in the world. Also, the foreigners they can enjoy about the books, the stories about China, and I really like it so much," said Torres, a Chilean visitor.
These innovative cultural attractions are encouraging visitors to stay longer and explore the city more extensively.
In the first half of 2026, Shanghai received over 5 million inbound overnight visitors, marking a 31 percent increase compared with the same period last year.
Fresh cultural experiences boost Shanghai's inbound tourism
