China’s first AI commercial satellite in the world, Xingshidai-18, was launched off the coast of Guangdong province on February 3.
This week, Beijing successfully launched multiple satellites into Earth’s orbit through a series of space missions.
On February 3, a Smart Dragon 3 carrier rocket took off from a launchpad off the coast of Guangdong province, China.
Nine satellites were successfully launched into their designated orbits by the rocket, and one of these, Xingshidai-18, is being hailed by Chinese media as the world’s first artificial intelligence (AI) commercial satellite in orbit.
What is Known About Xingshidai-18?
The integrated sensing network satellite Xingshidai-18, commonly known as Rongpiao, was created by Chengdu, Sichuan Province, China’s Guoxing Aerospace Technology Co., Ltd.
Xingshidai-18, according to CGTN, is equipped with a “sixth generation’satellite brain’ system” created by the manufacturer of the satellite, which is intended to carry out “verification of the synaesthesia fusion AI algorithm” once it reaches orbit.
Astronomers predict that by 2025, Saturn’s Iconic Rings will disappear and will not be visible from Earth due to a tilt in Saturn’s angle.
The media outlet further notes that a “remote integrated platform capability for future communication networks” is another aspect of Xingshidai-18.
What is the Smart Dragon 3 Carrier Rocket?
China is the developer of the solid propellant carrier rocket known as Smart Dragon 3 (Jielong 3). It weighs 145 metric tons and is 31 meters long by 2.65 meters wide.
The rocket’s maiden flight occurred in 2022. It can carry payloads weighing up to 1,500 kg, including satellites, into Earth’s orbit.
What Other Satellites Has China Launched Recently?
Additionally, on February 3, a Long March 2C carrier rocket carrying 11 Geely-02 constellation satellites launched from China’s Xichang space launch site. The satellites entered orbit as planned, and the launch was completed successfully.
According to Chinese media, the satellites are intended to offer “integrated communication, navigation and remote sensing technologies” to users worldwide as well as location assistance for self-driving automobiles.
