Key satellite system eyes global reach

Hongyan to provide phone, internet services to world's remote regions

Leading space contractor China Aerospace Science and Technology Corp will start building the country's largest satellite constellation this year, with plans to offer communication services to users around the world.

Upon its completion, the Hongyan constellation will consist of more than 320 satellites operating in low-Earth orbits, capable of providing phone call service and broadband internet access to users anywhere on the globe, according to the China Academy of Space Technology, part of CASC.