JAKARTA, November 6, 2026 — China’s private satellite company GalaxySpace conducted its first low-Earth-orbit satellite internet application demonstration in Indonesia, enabling a high-definition video call between its team in Indonesia and colleagues in Beijing. This trial demonstrates the potential of next-generation satellites to fulfill the promise of universal internet access for all.
Background And History
The concept of satellite internet is not new, with the first commercial communications satellite, Telstar 1, launched in 1962. However, it wasn’t until the 1990s that satellite internet started to gain traction, with companies like HughesNet and Viasat offering geostationary satellite internet services. These early services had limitations, including high latency and limited bandwidth. The introduction of low-Earth-orbit (LEO) satellites has changed the game, with companies like Starlink operating over 11,000 satellites in LEO, providing faster and more reliable internet services.
How It Works
LEO satellites orbit the Earth at an altitude of around 340 miles, compared to geostationary satellites which orbit at around 22,000 miles. This closer proximity to the Earth reduces latency and increases bandwidth, making LEO satellites ideal for real-time applications like video calls and online gaming. The satellites are also smaller and cheaper to launch, making them more accessible to a wider range of users. According to GalaxySpace, their Mini Spider broadband communications test constellation used in the Indonesia trial is designed for rapid deployment overseas, with lightweight satellite communications terminals that can be easily installed in remote areas.
The Numbers
The numbers are impressive, with China completing six rocket launches in just one week, sending over 30 satellites into orbit. This rapid launch cadence is a testament to the country’s commitment to developing its satellite internet infrastructure. Starlink, a leading satellite internet provider, has already launched over 11,000 satellites into LEO, with plans to continue expanding its constellation. The potential market for satellite internet is huge, with millions of people around the world still lacking access to reliable and fast internet services.
What It Means Now
The successful trial in Indonesia demonstrates the potential of next-generation satellites to provide universal internet access. For families and individuals living in remote or underserved areas, satellite internet can be a game-changer, providing access to education, healthcare, and economic opportunities. As Yang Haoliang, chief designer and commander-in-chief of the Kinetica-2 rocket program, noted, frequent, reliable, and affordable launches are essential to the steady development of satellite internet infrastructure. With the rapid expansion of satellite internet services, we can expect to see more people around the world gaining access to fast and reliable internet services, bridging the digital divide and promoting economic growth and development. On November 2, Chinese commercial space company STAR.VISION signed a space artificial intelligence agreement with Oman Lens, covering satellite constellation development, a satellite assembly, integration and testing center in Oman, and training and joint research programs, highlighting the growing international cooperation in the development of satellite internet infrastructure.
Sources
- Satellite Internet access
- Satellite internet, 6G and embodied intelligence take center stage at Wuzhen expo
- China's Satellite Internet Sector Enters a Phase of Rapid Expansion and Industrialization
- Legacy Satellite ISPs Are Struggling To Survive Since Starlink Took Over – BGR
- Jio vs Starlink India: $7 vs $100/Mo, Jio Wins [2026]
- Chinese, Indonesian firms conduct satellite internet trial
Photo: Bernd 📷 Dittrich / Unsplash (Unsplash License)
