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China puts four direct-to-device networking test satellites into orbit via Long March 2D launches

China’s state media reports launches of direct-to-device and broadband networking test satellites into their planned orbits from Chinese space centers, using Long March 2D rockets. The flights cap a busy period by deploying multiple payloads to validate new connectivity technologies and integrated space-ground networking.

Discovered 2026-05-31T22:40:43.702018-07:00 | 2026-05-31T22:40:43.702018-07:00

Briefing

What Hype is tracking

These launches advance China’s direct-to-device (D2D) connectivity pathway by validating “test” satellites and technology upgrades aimed at mobile phone-to-satellite broadband and integrated space-ground networking.
The cluster highlights accelerating global momentum toward D2D and constellation connectivity testing—useful context alongside Viasat’s D2D demonstration work (see Viasat completes direct-to-device (D2D) demonstration in Uzbekistan).
For constellation operators and upstream suppliers, the focus on networked connectivity and upgrades parallels other high-throughput networking experiments (see ESA backs laser comms, inter-satellite networking and on-orbit AI on SpaceX Transporter-16).

Reported By

aa.com.tr SpaceNews.com worldairnews.co.za china-in-space.com