Chinese researchers have simulated a space operation to approach and potentially target the Starlink satellite constellation.
The team, led by Wu Yunhua, director of the aerospace control department at Nanjing University of Aeronautics and Astronautics, demonstrated in a computer simulation that nearly 1,400 Starlink satellites could be approached within 12 hours using just 99 Chinese satellites.
These satellites could be equipped with lasers, microwaves, and other devices for reconnaissance, tracking, or other operations.
"The potential military application value of the Starlink mega constellation has been highlighted in the Russia-Ukraine conflict. In recent years, the militarisation of space has intensified, posing a significant threat to China's space security. It is particularly important to track and monitor its operational status," Wu's team stated in their paper published on January 3, as reported by South China Morning Post (SCMP).
Starlink, operated by SpaceX, has already launched over 6,700 satellites, with plans to expand this number significantly. Tracking such a massive constellation with limited resources poses extreme challenges. Precise orbital calculations are required to maneuver satellites close enough to detect Starlink satellites without causing accidents.
Additionally, energy-intensive equipment like lasers requires adequate sunlight for recharging, further complicating operational strategies.
Wu and his colleagues claim to have overcome these obstacles using a binary artificial intelligence algorithm inspired by the hunting techniques of whales, SCMP reported.
This algorithm helps Chinese satellites work in tandem to "hunt" Starlink satellites effectively. According to the team, their technology can generate a reliable action plan within two minutes, making it a significant breakthrough in space operations.
The hunting behavior of whales, which channel small fish into their mouths while conserving energy, provided the foundation for this method. By mimicking this natural process, the Chinese satellites are able to perform complex tracking tasks efficiently.
Wu's team, known for its significant contributions to China's space defense technologies, has received more than 16 million yuan (approximately $2.2 million) in funding from the Chinese government and military.
The Harbin Institute of Technology also collaborated on this research, although both institutions are under US sanctions for developing advanced military technologies.
China is also working on building its own satellite constellations similar to Starlink. However, such developments come with risks. If these constellations are attacked, the resulting debris could endanger other space assets, including space stations.
To address this, China and other nations are exploring the development of interceptor satellites equipped with non-destructive weapons to disable targets without creating significant debris.
Wu's work highlights the growing tensions in the militarization of space and the race to dominate satellite technology. With Starlink being a central component of SpaceX's future plans, its role in global communications and potential military applications is under increasing scrutiny.
This research underscores the complexities of space security and the challenges posed by mega constellations like Starlink. As nations race to develop countermeasures and advanced tracking technologies, the militarization of space is set to redefine global defense strategies.
The research has been published in the Chinese academic journal Systems Engineering and Electronics.