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“Where Did This Come From”: China Just Launched Mexico’s Secret Satellites And America Had No Idea

China's successful launch of two Mexican femtosatellites into orbit, marking Mexico's first commercial space mission, underscores a significant shift in international space collaboration and the growing accessibility of advanced satellite technology.
Eirwen WilliamsEirwen Williams09/18/202546
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Illustration of China's Kinetica-1 Rocket Launching Mexican Satellites into Orbit.
Illustration of China's Kinetica-1 Rocket Launching Mexican Satellites into Orbit.
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IN A NUTSHELL
  • 🚀 China launched two Mexican femtosatellites into orbit, marking a new era of international space collaboration.
  • 🌎 The launch highlights Mexico’s entry into the commercial space market with its first mission to low Earth orbit.
  • 📡 The mission showcases the potential of small satellite technology, challenging traditional satellite norms.
  • 🔗 This collaboration underscores China’s growing influence in global space efforts, expanding its international partnerships.

In a groundbreaking collaboration, China and Mexico have embarked on a significant venture in space technology. China has successfully launched two Mexican satellites into orbit, marking a new chapter in North American space initiatives. This development not only emphasizes the growing international partnerships in space exploration but also highlights the shift towards smaller and more efficient satellite technologies. The launch was carried out by CAS Space, a Beijing-based company, using its Kinetica-1 rocket. The initiative is part of China’s broader strategy to expand its influence in the global commercial space market, while for Mexico, it represents a stride towards becoming a notable player in the aerospace sector.

Mexico’s Leap Into Space

Mexico has joined the ranks of North American countries engaging in orbital missions with the recent launch of two satellites. These satellites, developed by the Tijuana-based company ThumbSat, were launched by China’s CAS Space. Situated close to the U.S. border, ThumbSat is pioneering the concept of femtosatellites—tiny satellites that weigh less than 100 grams. This launch is a monumental step as it marks Mexico’s first commercial mission to low Earth orbit.

The ThumbSat satellites are designed for specific missions. ThumbSat-1 is equipped with a selfie payload, while ThumbSat-2 carries an artistic payload. These missions emphasize the potential of small satellites to perform meaningful tasks. The company aims to make space more accessible by installing low-cost receiving stations across Mexico. These stations will empower students and amateur users to interact with the satellites, thus democratizing space technology.

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China’s Growing Influence in Space

The involvement of CAS Space in this project underscores China’s growing role in the international space community. Offering a “good balance of cost and reliability,” CAS Space’s Kinetica-1 rocket has attracted international interest for its commercial launch capabilities. This launch is significant as it marks China’s entry into the North American commercial launch market, a region traditionally dominated by U.S. space agencies and companies.

China’s strategy involves expanding its space cooperation worldwide, and this launch with Mexico is a testament to that goal. By collaborating with countries like Mexico, China is not only extending its technological reach but also fostering diplomatic ties. These collaborations could potentially reshape global dynamics in space exploration, as more countries look to China for affordable and reliable launch services.

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The Technology Behind Femtosatellites

The ThumbSat mission is a pivotal demonstration of the capabilities of femtosatellites. These tiny devices challenge the traditional notion that satellites must be large and costly to be effective. The technology behind these satellites allows them to carry out specific tasks despite their size. This is achieved through advanced miniaturization techniques and innovative engineering solutions.

The satellites were equipped with a custom-built separation deployer, courtesy of CAS Space, designed for modular upgrades and future scalability. This technology ensures that even as satellite requirements evolve, the existing framework can adapt, allowing for continued innovation and application. This approach not only reduces costs but also promotes sustainability in the ever-growing field of satellite technology.

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Implications for Global Space Collaboration

This collaboration between China and Mexico has far-reaching implications for global space collaboration. By working together, the two nations have highlighted the potential for international partnerships to advance space exploration. This trend could lead to increased cooperation among nations, breaking down barriers that have historically limited access to space.

As space becomes more accessible, countries previously unable to participate in space missions now have opportunities to engage in space exploration. This democratization of space could lead to a more diverse range of missions and technological advancements, benefiting the global community. The success of the ThumbSat mission may inspire other countries to pursue similar collaborations, fostering a new era of international cooperation.

The launch of Mexican satellites by China’s CAS Space is a significant milestone in the evolving landscape of global space exploration. This collaboration not only showcases the potential of small satellite technology but also signifies a shift towards more inclusive and international partnerships in space. As more countries explore similar alliances, the future of space exploration seems poised for unprecedented growth and cooperation. How will these new dynamics reshape the future of space exploration, and what role will emerging technologies play in this transformative journey?

This article is based on verified sources and supported by editorial technologies.

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Eirwen Williams
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Eirwen Williams is a New York-based journalist at Sustainability Times, covering science, climate policy, sustainable innovation, and environmental justice. With a background in journalism acquired through a specialized program in New York, he explores how cities adapt to a warming world. With a focus on people-powered change, his stories spotlight the intersection of activism, policy, and green technology. Contact : [email protected]

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View 46 Comments
46 Comments
  1. melanie on 09/18/2025 5:49 AM

    Wow, this sounds like a big deal! How did the U.S. miss this launch? 🤔

    Reply
  2. lukevolcano on 09/18/2025 5:50 AM

    Wow, I had no idea Mexico was getting into the space game! 🚀

    Reply
  3. cecilia on 09/18/2025 6:18 AM

    Why did the U.S. miss this launch? Seems like a big oversight. 🤔

    Reply
  4. Nicholas6 on 09/18/2025 6:48 AM

    ThumbSat sounds like a cool initiative, but what exactly is a femtosatellite?

    Reply
  5. marylandscape0 on 09/18/2025 6:51 AM

    Great article! It’s amazing to see Mexico entering the space race. 🚀

    Reply
  6. marystream8 on 09/18/2025 7:17 AM

    Are these satellites going to be visible from Earth or are they too small?

    Reply
  7. Franksymphony on 09/18/2025 7:45 AM

    Is this the beginning of a new space race? 🌌

    Reply
  8. Nadiawhirlpool on 09/18/2025 7:52 AM

    I’m curious about the femtosatellites. How do they actually work?

    Reply
  9. emilysorcery on 09/18/2025 8:13 AM

    Does this mean we’ll start seeing more collaborations between unexpected countries?

    Reply
  10. sylvesterlegend on 09/18/2025 8:23 AM

    Why didn’t Mexico partner with the U.S. for this launch? 🤷‍♂️

    Reply
  11. fabianshimmer on 09/18/2025 8:24 AM

    ThumbSat’s artistic payload sounds intriguing. What kind of art are they sending up?

    Reply
  12. Aurelia on 09/18/2025 8:27 AM

    Feels like a sci-fi story coming to life! 🌠

    Reply
  13. emiliasolstice5 on 09/18/2025 8:28 AM

    Can’t wait to see what other countries jump into space next!

    Reply
  14. camilalotus on 09/18/2025 8:30 AM

    ThumbSat’s concept of democratizing space is fascinating. How can I get involved?

    Reply
  15. Adrianpatience on 09/18/2025 8:33 AM

    Is there a specific reason this collaboration was kept under wraps?

    Reply
  16. arnold on 09/18/2025 8:35 AM

    Are there any environmental concerns with launching these tiny satellites?

    Reply
  17. Melanie on 09/18/2025 8:37 AM

    How do femtosatellites compare in cost to traditional satellites?

    Reply
  18. sylvester on 09/18/2025 8:38 AM

    The future of space exploration is looking bright and very international! 🌍

    Reply
  19. elisavenus0 on 09/18/2025 8:40 AM

    Is this a one-off collaboration or the start of a long-term partnership?

    Reply
  20. alan on 09/18/2025 8:42 AM

    The article mentioned students can interact with the satellites. How does that work?

    Reply
  21. isabellalightning on 09/18/2025 8:43 AM

    Can someone explain why this is considered a secret? 🤨

    Reply
  22. Carol9 on 09/18/2025 8:45 AM

    What’s next for Mexico’s space program after this launch?

    Reply
  23. Sylvester on 09/18/2025 8:46 AM

    Do you think other North American countries will follow Mexico’s lead?

    Reply
  24. Nadia on 09/18/2025 8:48 AM

    Impressive that these satellites weigh less than 100 grams. Technology is amazing! 🤯

    Reply
  25. Johndepths on 09/18/2025 8:51 AM

    How do these launches align with China’s broader space strategy?

    Reply
  26. Oliverdarkness on 09/18/2025 8:52 AM

    Are there any plans to make similar launches from other countries?

    Reply
  27. emiliacloud on 09/18/2025 8:55 AM

    ThumbSat’s approach to democratizing space technology is fascinating. More countries should follow! 🌎

    Reply
  28. Paulawicked on 09/18/2025 8:55 AM

    Interesting read, though I’m skeptical about some of the claims. 🤨

    Reply
  29. Nadia on 09/18/2025 8:56 AM

    Can these small satellites actually perform meaningful tasks, or is it more for show?

    Reply
  30. Jamila7 on 09/18/2025 8:59 AM

    Good to see countries working together rather than competing all the time. 👍

    Reply
  31. Mohammeddestiny on 09/18/2025 9:00 AM

    Is there any risk of these femtosatellites colliding with other objects in space?

    Reply
  32. khadija1 on 09/18/2025 9:03 AM

    How long do these satellites stay in orbit before they deorbit?

    Reply
  33. Sylvestersparkle7 on 09/18/2025 9:04 AM

    I love the idea of art in space. 🎨

    Reply
  34. Adrienne on 09/18/2025 9:07 AM

    So, does this mean cheaper internet worldwide? Asking for a friend. 😉

    Reply
  35. helen_galaxy on 09/18/2025 9:09 AM

    Why are international partnerships like this not more common?

    Reply
  36. nicholas1 on 09/18/2025 9:10 AM

    This is a huge step for Mexico. Congratulations! 🎉

    Reply
  37. Christina on 09/18/2025 9:12 AM

    Could this collaboration affect U.S.-Mexico relations in the space sector?

    Reply
  38. pauline on 09/18/2025 9:13 AM

    Great article, thanks for the insights on international space efforts!

    Reply
  39. Roman on 09/18/2025 9:13 AM

    Does this mean more affordable satellite launches in the future?

    Reply
  40. amelia on 09/18/2025 9:16 AM

    Are other countries likely to team up with China for space missions?

    Reply
  41. Marina_night on 09/18/2025 9:18 AM

    I’m curious about the technical challenges of launching such small satellites.

    Reply
  42. Lukespiritual on 09/18/2025 9:21 AM

    Is there a link to a live feed of these satellites in orbit? 📡

    Reply
  43. christine_dazzle on 09/18/2025 9:41 AM

    How reliable is the Kinetica-1 rocket compared to SpaceX’s rockets?

    Reply
  44. Melanie0 on 09/18/2025 9:55 AM

    This just shows how much influence China is gaining globally. Should the U.S. be worried?

    Reply
  45. matthewangel on 09/18/2025 10:09 AM

    Is there any potential for these femtosatellites to malfunction and cause issues in orbit?

    Reply
  46. carol on 09/18/2025 10:39 AM

    China’s influence keeps growing… should we be worried or excited?

    Reply
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