Star Wars goes real: Chinese satellite reportedly zaps Starlink from 36,000 KM with 2-Watt laser beam
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A Chinese satellite has used a small 2-watt laser from 36,000 km above Earth to send data faster than Starlink. This surprising success shows how far space technology has come, using just a weak beam of light to beat powerful internet systems.Even though the laser was as weak as a nightlight or candle, it sent data at 1 Gbps speed. This is 5 times faster than Starlink's usual speed, which only reaches a few Mbps, as per reports.The project was led by Professor Wu Jian and Liu Chao. One big problem in space lasers is atmospheric turbulence, which shakes and distorts the laser signal. Older systems used either Adaptive Optics or Mode Diversity Reception, but alone, they weren't strong enough.This Chinese team combined both AO + MDR into one system called AO-MDR synergy. This new combo helped to fix the signal distortion and also catch scattered light for better clarity, as stated in the reports.The team managed to send strong signals clearly even during heavy turbulence and over massive distances. This could lead to much better satellite internet, with faster speeds and more reliable connections. Could also help in HD video streaming, telecom, media, and even space missions. The system works without needing complex ground systems, which makes it cheaper and more efficient.It shows China is becoming a big player in space tech and could soon lead in satellite communication. Laser-based satellites might replace traditional radio waves, offering faster internet and less delay, as per the report by MSN.It could also improve GPS, and help with real-time communication in space. The research is seen as a huge win for science worldwide, not just for China.Yes, Chinese scientists used a 2-watt laser from 36,000 km to send data five times faster than Starlink.They used a new AO-MDR system that fixed signal distortion and made the laser work clearly even through Earth's atmosphere.
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