Beidou satellites reach deep into Pacific Ocean for real-time data

In a major breakthrough, China has successfully transmitted real-time data to a depth of 6,000 meters in the ocean using its own Beidou satellites during a scientific expedition, the Chinese Academy of Sciences' Institute of Oceanology said.

The technology solves the disadvantages of small payload volumes, limited power supplies and huge data sizes associated with deep-sea survey devices. It also reduces dependence on foreign communications satellites, said Wang Fan, director of the institute.

"New technology that combines inductive coupling and underwater acoustic communication has been used to extend transmission to 6,000 meters from the earlier 3,000 meters," Wang said.