Taiwan's space sector gains momentum as Foxconn unveils advanced technologies at TASTI 2024

Taiwan's space sector gains momentum as Foxconn unveils advanced technologies at TASTI 2024
by Riko Seibo
Tokyo, Japan (SPX) Dec 01, 2024

Hon Hai Technology Group, widely known as Foxconn (TWSE:2317), has showcased its latest advancements in space technology at the second annual Taiwan International Assembly of Space Science, Technology, and Industry (TASTI). As a title sponsor of the event, Foxconn emphasized its growing contributions to the satellite ecosystem and its commitment to elevating Taiwan's space industry on the global stage.

TASTI 2024, organized by the Taiwan Space Agency (TASA), brought together innovators and leaders in the space industry to explore new developments in global space science and technology. Foxconn seized the opportunity to highlight its leadership in next-generation space communications and its collaborations with key partners to establish a robust satellite ecosystem.

"We want to spotlight 'new generation space communications' and feature the progress of strong collaborations with industry partners to create a comprehensive ecosystem for the satellite industry," said Dr. Jen-Ming Wu, an advisory committee member for TASTI and the Director of the Next-Generation Communications Research Center at Foxconn's Hon Hai Research Institute.

Foxconn outlined its vision for future communication technologies, focusing on solutions that ensure high coverage, reliability, connection density, and low latency-critical components for enabling advanced space communication networks.

Expanding Taiwan's Space Industry

Jesse Chao, Senior Director of Foxconn's B5G policy group, underscored the company's global ambitions. "We are committed to strongly supporting the development of the space ecosystem, from Taiwan to the global stage," he said, ahead of a roundtable discussion on public-private collaboration in the space sector.

Foxconn presented a full-scale model of its PEARL CubeSat, launched successfully a year ago, and discussed its groundbreaking in-orbit operation technologies. These included advanced capabilities such as solar tracking mode, ground station target tracking, three-axis control stabilization, Earth observation, and real-space environmental data analysis. The CubeSat also demonstrated Foxconn's expertise in addressing the Doppler effect frequency shift for two-way communication, a vital challenge in satellite system integration.

In addition to its satellite technologies, Foxconn exhibited products developed through its satellite communications partnerships. Highlights included:

+ Low-Orbit Satellite User Terminals: Co-developed with FIH Mobile Ltd and SHARP Corporation, these terminals represent a step forward in making satellite communications accessible.

+ Earth Observation Cameras: Created by Rayprus Holding Ltd, these modules enhance Earth monitoring capabilities.

+ Space-Grade Components: Foxconn Interconnect Technology Ltd displayed weather-resistant connectors and wiring systems tailored for the rigors of space.

Foxconn's technology partner MediaTek Inc demonstrated its cutting-edge Software Defined Radio (SDR) chip, designed for Non-Terrestrial Networks (NTNs). Meanwhile, U.S.-based Antaris showcased its innovative software platform for space missions, emphasizing the global nature of collaborations driving Foxconn's ambitions.

Building a Space Innovation Hub in Taiwan

Foxconn's growing engagement in the space sector signals a significant step forward for Taiwan's aspirations in space exploration and technology. Through its partnerships, innovative solutions, and participation in key events like TASTI, Foxconn is paving the way for Taiwan to become a leader in the global space industry.

By leveraging its deep expertise in electronics manufacturing and its strategic relationships with industry pioneers, Foxconn is ensuring that Taiwan plays a vital role in shaping the future of space communications and exploration.