The SatNet LEO Group 01 constellation is part of China's GuoWang satellite initiative, aiming to create a global broadband internet network. This project, managed by China SatNet, plans to deploy 12,992 low Earth orbit (LEO) satellites. It is designed to compete with other constellations like SpaceX’s Starlink and Amazon's Project Kuiper.

The initial group of satellites launched under this project, LEO Group 01, serves as a stepping stone toward the larger GuoWang network. These satellites demonstrate capabilities like laser-based communication and high-throughput broadband, critical for reducing dependency on terrestrial ground stations. The broader network is intended to bridge digital divides globally while promoting China's strategic Belt and Road initiative by expanding connectivity to participating countries.

The GuoWang program faces challenges, including launch capacity, funding, and competition. SpaceX and others are years ahead in deployment and operation. However, the Chinese government has prioritized this project, ensuring substantial investment and policy support to expedite its progress.

The LM-5 launch vehicle is a heavy, cryogenic liquid launch vehicle newly developed by China Aerospace Science and Technology Corporation. Following the design principal of generalization, serialization and modularization, the LM-5 uses non-toxic and non-polluting propellants such as liquid hydrogen, liquid oxygen and kerosene, etc. The modularized design can reduce launch costs and improve reliability, possessing strong adaptability and competitiveness in the market.

The payload capability of LM-5 is 25 tons for low Earth orbit (LEO), and 14 tons for Geostationary transfer orbit (GTO), capable of launching different kinds of spacecraft, such as LEO, GTO and sun-synchronous orbit (SSO) satellites, space station and lunar probe, etc.

Credit: China National Space Administration

The Wenchang Space Launch Site located in Wenchang, Hainan, China, is a rocket launch site, one of the two spacecraft launch sites of Xichang Satellite Launch Center.

It is a former suborbital test center. It is China's fourth and southernmost space vehicle launch facility (spaceport). It has been specially selected for its low latitude, which is only 19° north of the equator, which will allow for an increase in payload necessary for launching China's future space station. It is capable of launching the Long March 5, currently the most powerful Chinese rocket.