China's newly launched satellite to test Internet technology in space

China on Tuesday launched the China Mobile 02 atop a Zhuque-2E Y6 carrier rocket from the Dongfeng commercial space innovation pilot zone, marking a key step in testing space-ground network integration.

The satellite is primarily designed to test direct broadband connectivity for mobile phones with satellites. This launch follows a rapid sequence of similar satellite internet technology tests by China in 2026 aimed at supporting the development of a comprehensive commercial satellite internet infrastructure.