Taiwan Soars to Space: U.S. Company to Build Crucial Payload for Landmark Satellite

Taiwan's Ambitious Satellite Program Takes Flight with Key Partnership to bolster communications capabilities

Taipei, Taiwan – April 1, 2024 – Taiwan is taking a giant leap into the future of space technology! The island nation's first "Beyond 5G" (B5G) low Earth orbit (LEO) satellite is set to be a reality, with the crucial communications payload being supplied by the U.S. aerospace innovator, CesiumAstro. This marks a significant step in Taiwan's journey towards an autonomous satellite communications network.

According to the Taiwan Space Agency (TASA), the satellite, designated 1A, is slated for launch in 2027. Weighing in at approximately 400 kilograms, the satellite will orbit at a height of around 600 kilometers, promising to provide cutting-edge communication capabilities.

TASA's experimental satellite program is a pivotal initiative aimed at fostering Taiwan's independence in satellite communications. The agency allocated a budget of NT$880 million (approximately US$36.5 million) specifically for the critical communications payload of the first satellite, as outlined in the tender notice.

CesiumAstro, a U.S. aerospace and defense firm established in 2017 and known for its collaborations with organizations like NASA, secured the bid. The company's involvement signals a crucial partnership in Taiwan's ambitious space endeavors.

Adding to the significance, Taoyuan-based Quanta Computer Inc. invested US$15 million in CesiumAstro last year, showcasing the growing collaborative efforts.

The first two experimental satellites within the B5G LEO program will be used for crucial testing in diverse areas, including backup data communication systems, environmental monitoring, disaster prevention, and maritime communications. This multifaceted approach underlines the program's importance for both national security and societal benefit.