China has shared over 1.5 terabytes of remote sensing satellite data with BRICS countries and plans to further promote the application of this data in various sectors within BRICS member societies, according to the China National Space Administration (CNSA).
The establishment of the BRICS Global Remote Sensing Satellite Data and Application Cooperation Platform aims to facilitate the collection, sharing, and joint application of satellite data among the five major emerging economies – Brazil, Russia, India, China, and South Africa. This cooperation mechanism will not only benefit the BRICS countries but also contribute to sustainable economic and social development in the region and help address global challenges.
Remote sensing satellite technology offers advantages such as high-resolution, full-range, and global observation capabilities, making it a vital tool in addressing 21st-century challenges like food crises, water resource shortages, and climate change.
In August 2021, the heads of the BRICS space agencies signed an agreement on cooperation for the BRICS Remote Sensing Satellite Constellation. This agreement includes China-made satellites, namely Gaofen-6 and Ziyuan-3 02, along with ground stations in Sanya, Hainan Province, China, supporting the program.
During the first meeting of the joint commission on space cooperation of the BRICS countries in May 2022, the joint committee resolution supported joint observation by BRICS countries in specific areas and cooperation in the field of remote sensing satellites through data exchange.
China has taken practical steps to fulfill the agreement for cooperation in remote sensing satellite data sharing. CNSA has launched China’s website for the BRICS remote sensing satellite constellation, providing metadata and sample data from Chinese remote sensing satellites to facilitate data sharing among BRICS nations and ensure the smooth operation of the data exchange mechanism.
CNSA has also proposed pilot and demonstration projects to promote joint observation and accelerate data sharing and application within the BRICS remote sensing satellite constellation. Additionally, a Chinese data and application center has been established to facilitate construction coordination, data receiving, processing, delivery, and application for the constellation.
Looking ahead, CNSA aims to deepen and expand the existing cooperation mechanism, strengthen the construction of the cooperation platform, and allow Chinese remote sensing satellite data to benefit more countries. This effort aligns with the United Nations’ 2030 Sustainable Development Goals and the goal of fostering a shared future for mankind.
In addition to its collaboration with BRICS members, China is also actively engaging in other space projects, including the International Lunar Research Station (ILRS) program. On July 18, Venezuela and China signed a declaration to formally join the ILRS program, affirming their commitment to deepening their strategic partnership.