The Taihang Aerospace Research Institute, a collaborative effort between the North University of China in Shanxi province and Wuhan University, has been inaugurated, marking a significant milestone for Shanxi's space satellite project as it enters a new phase of inter-university collaboration and integration across industry, academia, research, government, and finance.

The Taihang Aerospace Research Institute launches at the North University of China. [Photo provided by North University of China]

The Taihang Constellation, the core of Shanxi's space satellite project, plans to deploy 128 intelligent networking satellites in four phases, with full deployment expected by 2035. Unlike traditional academic research platforms, the newly launched institute focuses on creating an innovative, engineering-driven, and industrialized aerospace entity tailored to the practical needs of the Taihang Constellation project.

The institute aims to establish a comprehensive research system that covers the entire process, from technology development and in-orbit verification to results transformation and industrial application. This includes satellite design, complete satellite manufacturing, ground testing, and aerospace data services.

The institute has assembled a high-caliber team led by academicians, aerospace system engineering experts, and frontline commercial aerospace professionals. This team is equipped to handle the full lifecycle of satellite development, system integration, and project implementation, thereby laying a solid foundation for continuous breakthroughs in aerospace technology.