THE NEW SPACE RACE: China to launch first satellites for megaconstellation in August.

The first launch for China’s G60 Starlink megaconstellation of over 12,000 satellites is set for early August.

The first satellites are due to leave the factory in Shanghai for Taiyuan Satellite Launch Center in north China in the coming days, according to Shanghai Securities News.

The launch is set for Aug. 5 with the mission expected to carry 18 satellites. The launch vehicle was not stated in reports, but the Long March 6A would be the most capable option from Taiyuan in terms of capacity to low Earth orbit and payload fairing.

The constellation aims to provide global internet access, challenging U.S. projects including Starlink. It is also intended to secure finite orbital slots and frequencies and provide national internet coverage and data security.

Left unasked: without reusable launch vehicles, will G60 turn a profit or just be another cash-sucking state megaproject?