Eastern Stars Rising: The Rise of China’s Commercial Space Industry

China's commercial space industry is rapidly advancing, posing a significant challenge to U.S. leadership in space. The Chinese government has been actively fostering this sector since 2014 through policy directives and investments, leading to a surge in venture capital-backed space startups. These companies are making substantial impacts in satellite communications, Earth observation, and launch capabilities. With the potential launch of tens of thousands of satellites, China aims to expand its digital influence globally and enhance its military operations. To maintain its dominance, the U.S. must strengthen its commercial space ecosystem through forward-leaning regulations and expanded government partnerships.