Chinese researchers "hunt" Starlink satellites in simulation: report
01/14/2025 08:39 AM
Chinese researchers, taking cues from whale hunting behaviors, have simulated how they might approach and “hunt” SpaceX’s Starlink satellites that are already in orbit.
The researchers’ paper, which was peer-reviewed, was published in the Chinese academic journal Systems Engineering and Electronics earlier this month.
The news:
- A team from Nanjing University of Aeronautics and Astronautics has published a study simulating how 99 Chinese satellites could track and approach nearly 1,400 Starlink satellites within 12 hours using tech like lasers for tracking or other operations, as noted in a South China Morning Post report.
- Wu Yunhua, director of the aerospace control department at Nanjing University of Aeronautics and Astronautics, mentioned Starlink’s potential as a military asset.
- “The potential military application value of the Starlink mega constellation has been highlighted in the Russia-Ukraine conflict. In recent years, the militarization 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 wrote.
- SpaceX currently has over 6,700 Starlink satellites.
The details:
- The Chinese team’s simulation was based on complex orbital calculations to ensure effective and safe satellite interactions.
- The researchers developed a new binary AI algorithm inspired by whale behavior to “hunt” Starlink satellites.
- The technique drew inspiration from how whales work together to channel fish into their mouths in expansive waters. This allows whales to conserve energy.
- The researchers claim their method allows for rapid strategy formulation, with plans computed in under two minutes.
Between the lines:
- Wu has a history of significant contributions to space technology, previously receiving the National Defence Science and Technology Progress Award.
- As per the Nanjing University of Aeronautics and Astronautics website, the projects Wu has led have received funding from the Chinese government and military, totaling over 16 million yuan ($2.2 million).
- Both Nanjing University and Harbin Institute of Technology are involved in the research. Interestingly enough, both are under U.S. sanctions for their roles in military tech.
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