China has unexpectedly halted the deployment of its satellite constellation "Thousand Sails," which is similar to Starlink.

According to videos shared on Chinese social media, the "Chang Zheng-8" rocket, intended to launch satellites into low Earth orbit, arrived in Wenchang in November. It was transported to the launch pad 10 days ago before being returned to the assembly facility.

As written by the South China Morning Post, the launch delay has sparked considerable discussion within the Chinese space community. Experts and industry enthusiasts have speculated online about the possible reasons for the launch postponement, converging on the belief that it is linked to potential engine malfunctions of the rocket.

China's plans for establishing the "Thousand Sails" satellite constellation, with the first components launched into space in August, included the deployment of 108 satellites in 2024.

In the long term, the People's Republic of China aims to create a constellation of satellites consisting of over 10,000 units.