China’s activities in geostationary orbit are raising security concerns due to unpredictable satellite movements and capabilities for proximity maneuvers. Experts at a recent conference pointed out that China is expanding its fleet, which could complicate tracking and international security. Its advancements in satellite technology and strategic behaviors highlight the need for reassessment of global space governance.

China’s advancements in geostationary orbit (GEO) have captured significant attention, raising security issues due to unpredictable satellite movements. Experts participating in a recent panel at Chatham House’s Space Security 2025 conference highlighted concerning patterns of Chinese spacecraft within this strategically vital area, which orbits 35,786 kilometers above the equator, crucial for communications, intelligence, and military operations.

In recent years, China has progressively expanded its fleet of satellites in GEO, including communications and remote sensing satellites along with classified spacecraft. These experimental communications satellites exhibit capabilities such as proximity maneuvers, missile early warning, space situational awareness, and electronic signals intelligence. By slightly adjusting their orbit, these spacecraft can modify their positions within GEO, complicating tracking efforts.

Chief Master Sergeant Ron Lerch of the U.S. Space Force noted that Chinese experimental communication satellites display unusual behavior, frequently moving across the GEO belt. Such actions are atypical for satellites designed primarily for communication purposes; the latest addition, TJS-15, was launched on March 9 from Xichang.

Chinese spacecraft have been engaging in targeted proximity maneuvers to approach and inspect foreign satellites, with potential capabilities for imaging and intercepting communications. Juliana Suess from the German Institute for International and Security Affairs commented on China’s ability to conduct maneuvers that may cause damage or allow surveillance, emphasizing their skill in obscuring these activities.

Despite space domain awareness making concealment challenging, China’s use of precise timing, shadowing methods, and rapid movements creates unpredictability in its operations within GEO. Notably, while China’s maneuvers raise alarms, the United States and Russia also conduct similar activities, with increasing instances of “cat and mouse” encounters in space, where nations attempt to outmaneuver each other to gauge capabilities.

Moreover, China’s new satellite, Shijian-25, is designed for on-orbit servicing, marking a step toward refueling and maintaining satellites. Chief Master Sergeant Lerch explained that this technology aims to extend satellite life. Shijian-25 appears to be correlated with Shijian-21, which has previously demonstrated capabilities by towing a defunct satellite into a different orbit.

In total, China operates about 1,000 satellites in orbit, a stark increase from roughly 40 in 2010, which presents significant risk in the evolving landscape of space operations. The U.S. Space Force perceives substantial threat levels due to this rapid growth and the lack of regulation in the increasingly competitive space environment.

In summary, China’s expanding activities in geostationary orbit present notable security challenges due to unpredictable behaviors and advancements in satellite technology. This development raises concerns not only for the United States but for global security in space. China’s ability to conduct inspections and proximity maneuvers, along with its substantial growth in satellite infrastructure, necessitates a reevaluation of space governance and international collaboration to mitigate potential conflicts.

Original Source: spacenews.com

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