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Description:
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The size and sophistication of China's space ground segment within China and abroad has increased significantly. Changes in technology are also going to reshape China's space infrastructure. There is an ongoing shift away from large, expensive stations, as networks of small but cheap optical and radar satellite tracking stations and radio ground stations become more popular. Ultimately, as part of the Space-Earth Integrated Information Network Mega Project, Chinese scientists and engineers plan to build a constellation of space-based sensors, linked by data-relay satellites that can provide the necessary services without involving leasing or building stations abroad. The U.S. and its allies and partners have bene ted from scienti c cooperation with China, but going forward, this must be done with a realistic understanding of China's intentions and the real nature of the organizations to be partnered with. Navigating the need to cooperate in space as a global commons, including sharing tracking data, is complicated by its role as a strategic domain. While China has, in many ways, bene tted from the opacity surrounding its space program and supporting organizations, this study makes it clear that with even cursory research, the curtain can be pulled back. The United States, along with our partners and allies who choose to engage with China on space issues, should, at minimum, understand the nature of the organizations they are working with and the consequences for international norms of a China strengthened by access to international space technology.
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