INVC NEWS
Beijing : The China’s President Xi Jinping has unveiled an ambitious plan that could revolutionize the way governments monitor their citizens. With the installation of a staggering 60 crore cameras, China is set to embark on a mission to spy on its populace from the moon.
China’s Moon Mission of Surveillance
China’s lunar exploration program, Chang’e, which commenced in 2007, has now evolved to encompass a broader objective: monitoring its citizens from space. The expansion of the moon mission is not merely a symbolic gesture but a strategic move aimed at maintaining China’s power for the next fifty years. By leveraging the vast expanse of space, China seeks to enhance its surveillance capabilities and assert dominance on both terrestrial and extraterrestrial fronts.
The Skynet Project: China’s National Surveillance System
China’s endeavors in surveillance are not new. Under the Skynet Project, the country has already deployed over 20 crore cameras across public spaces, constituting the world’s largest surveillance network. This network, aptly named the “eyes protecting China,” facilitates live monitoring and recording, enabling authorities to exercise unprecedented control over their populace.
Expanding the Surveillance Umbrella to the Moon
The decision to extend surveillance to the moon stems from a strategic imperative to ensure the long-term stability and safety of China’s proposed International Lunar Research Station. By integrating the Skynet system with lunar infrastructure, China aims to create an omnipresent surveillance apparatus that transcends earthly limitations. The lunar base, spanning 3.7 miles, will serve as a command center, power station, communication hub, and scientific facility, bolstered by a fleet of robots and dedicated satellites.
The Role of Artificial Intelligence in Surveillance
Central to China’s surveillance ambitions is the integration of artificial intelligence (AI) into the Skynet program. Equipped with AI-powered chips, the 60 crore cameras deployed under Skynet will possess the capability to autonomously identify and target suspicious individuals. Each camera, weighing a mere 100 grams, will be strategically positioned to provide comprehensive coverage of every corner of the country, ensuring that no activity goes unnoticed.
Addressing Security Concerns
While China justifies its surveillance efforts as necessary for maintaining law and order, critics argue that the real intent is to stifle dissent and monitor political adversaries. Despite assurances that the Skynet system will primarily target criminals, the potential for misuse remains a pressing concern. The lack of transparency regarding the measures initiated in response to suspicious activities further exacerbates apprehensions surrounding privacy and civil liberties.
Implications for Global Security
Beyond domestic surveillance, China’s expansion of its surveillance capabilities to space raises broader implications for global security. With the ability to monitor not only its own citizens but also rival nations, China could potentially wield unprecedented influence on the international stage. The prospect of a surveillance network extending beyond national borders underscores the need for a concerted global effort to address the ethical and legal ramifications of such endeavors.
