China conducts satellite video call between Earth's poles

Chinese researchers have successfully conducted a video call between the Arctic and Antarctic using the Guowang satellite constellation. This marks the first described public test of the system, which is designed to provide low-Earth orbit (LEO) broadband connectivity.

Operated by China SatNet, the Guowang (National Network) project aims to deploy nearly 13,000 satellites across two sub-groups: the GW-A59 group with approximately 6,080 satellites at altitudes below 500km, and the GW-A2 group with 6,912 satellites at roughly 1,145km. The satellites are noted for their heavy mass, often exceeding 1 ton, allowing them to carry advanced payloads such as laser inter-satellite links, synthetic aperture radar, and optical remote sensing equipment.

The video call took place in late September 2026, connecting personnel at the Qinli Antarctic Station with three Arctic expedition vessels: the Xuelong, Jidi, and Tanso-3.