Blurred Orbits: Inside China’s Commercial Space Expansion

Photo: CSIS

Photo: CSIS

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Coverage of China’s space ambitions has largely focused on its military and human spaceflight developments, but far less attention has been given to its commercial space sector and the industrial base supporting it, which are growing at stunning pace on an unprecedented scale. Chinese launch startups, satellite internet companies, and remote sensing firms are building reusable rockets and mega-constellations, while satellite gigafactories, aerospace cities, technology hubs, and new launch sites are appearing across the country. 

This report offers a comprehensive assessment of China’s commercial space developments, capturing the policies, companies, investments, and manufacturing trends shaping its commercial space activities and their strategic implications for U.S. economic and national security interests.

This report is made possible by general support to CSIS.

Tags

China, Space and Aerospace, Technology, Technology and Innovation, and Military Technology
Kari Bingen

Kari A. Bingen

Director, Aerospace Security Project and Senior Fellow, Defense and Security Department
Chantal Li

Chantal Li

Research Assistant, Aerospace Security Project

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