- China on December 22, 2018 launched its first communication satellite Hongyun project to provide broadband internet services worldwide in an apparent bid to rival Google and other international firms.
- The satellite is the first in the project planned by China Aerospace Science and Industry Corp (CASIC).
- The Hongyun project was started in September 2016. It aims to build a space-based communications network to provide broadband internet connectivity to users around the world, especially those in the underserved regions.
- The spacecraft is tasked with verifying basic designs of Hongyun satellite and demonstrating low-orbit broadband communications technologies, state-run China Daily reported.
