In the Latest Space Race, It’s China vs. SpaceX

In the ongoing space race, China is focused on catching up with SpaceX's expansive Starlink satellite network, which currently consists of nearly 8,000 satellites in low-Earth orbit. China views this network as a potential military threat and has made it a national priority to match or surpass SpaceX's capabilities in this domain. Despite its successes in other areas of the space program, China currently has only 124 internet-providing satellites in low-Earth orbit, significantly fewer than SpaceX's Starlink constellation. The New York Times investigative reporter, Selam Gebrekidian, explores the reasons behind China's lag in this particular space race. The article highlights the competitive nature of the satellite internet market and the strategic importance that both China and SpaceX place on expanding their respective networks in low-Earth orbit. The outcome of this race could have significant implications for global internet access and potential military applications.