Dear Editor,
China has recently successfully tested a laser based deep space communication system that surpasses the current capabilities of Starlink’s system while reducing the associated costs. The laser can transmit from deeper in space and uses only 2 watts (the energy of a household LED bulb) and can transmit 1 Gbps vs. the current approach of low-earth orbit systems that require a large satellite network, more energy and has a median download speed of 67 Mbps. (Reference: Daily Galaxy, China Strikes Hard, November 16, 2025)
As governments continue to push to pursue deep space planetary missions such as those being considered for Mars, the impact that this new Chinese technology can have will be significant. According to the referenced article China will also need to build out its high orbit satellite network and its receiving ground station network. The location of Guyana on our planet may be attractive for our Chinese comrades as an investment option for such a ground station.
CRG recommends that our Government open discussions with China in support of such an initiative. If an agreement is achieved, Guyana will be at the forefront of deep space communications. The potential positive impact on the development of our nation’s engineering and science capabilities cannot be understated.