In a groundbreaking space-tech feat, China has successfully transmitted data at 1 gigabit per second (Gbps) using a faint 2-watt laser from a satellite positioned in geostationary orbit, roughly 36,000 km above Earth. 

 

 

 

That speed is reportedly five times faster than what Starlink delivers, even though Starlink satellites operate much closer — around 550 km above Earth. 

 

The breakthrough comes from a team of Chinese scientists at Peking University and the Chinese Academy of Sciences, who developed a system combining adaptive optics (AO) with mode diversity reception (MDR), dubbed AO-MDR synergy. 

Adaptive optics help correct signal distortion caused by the atmosphere, while MDR captures scattered laser light — working together to maintain clarity across the long distance. 

 

Their signal was split into eight channels using a multi-plane light converter, and a real-time algorithm selected the clearest paths, boosting transmission stability. 

In tests at the Lijiang Observatory, this setup dramatically improved the usable signal rate — from 72% to 91.1% — according to reports. 

 

Unlike radio-frequency (RF) systems that power downlinks with hundreds of watts, this laser-based method uses very little energy (just 2 W), yet still achieves high speeds over enormous distances. 

The low-power, high-speed nature of this tech could shake up satellite internet — offering a leaner, more efficient alternative to the dense low-Earth-orbit (LEO) constellations like Starlink. 

 

Beyond civilian broadband, this laser communication method has defense and space exploration implications, including deep-space mission telemetry, encrypted military comms, and high-bandwidth links to distant satellites. 

While scaling up for full deployment will be a challenge (especially building GEO satellites with precision optical payloads), China’s demonstration offers a clear glimpse into the future of space-based internet.

 

 

 

Key Takeaways

 

China used a 2-watt laser from a geostationary satellite to achieve 1 Gbps, far exceeding current Starlink speeds.

 

Their AO-MDR synergy system corrects atmospheric distortion and recovers weak laser signals, boosting reliability.

 

This breakthrough could transform satellite communications, enabling low-power, high-speed global internet and advancing space defense capabilities.

 

 

Adapted From 

 

https://dailygalaxy.com/2025/11/chinese-satellite-crushes-starlink-2-watt-laser-fired-in-space/

the chinese are doing well these days

1 hour ago, mordothailand said:

the chinese are doing well these days

Not much mention of what the Chinese  did to eradicate Tibetan culture. Let's not forget the killings and torture camps.

No oil there so the US don't give a hoot.

It could be outlined that laser beams are difficult to detect and nearly impossible to intercept.....

Ah! Good old CCP propaganda. I'll take this article with a pinch of salt thanks. Bit like the Chinese being the first to have a BBQ meal in space. That was utter nonsence.

My interpretation of a BBQ in space.

Reality: Packaged chicken wings heated in a hot air oven.