Space Technology and 6G
Space Technology
In 1991, Taiwan government has initiated the "Space Technology Long Term Developmental Program." Through the collective efforts between the government, universities, research communities and the industry, the program has successfully developed and launched the five satellites – FORMOSAT-1, FORMOSAT-2, FORMOSAT-3, FORMOSAT-4, FORMOSAT-5 – set up the foundation of our space technology and incubated many excellent space engineers, as well as strengthen our capability of space technology. In 2022, after passing “Act for the Establishment of the Taiwan Space Agency,” Taiwan Space Agency (TASA) was restructuring into an independent legal entity. TASA will further enhance our space technology R&D capabilities, promote space activities and the industry, and toward the goal of establishing remote sensing and communication constellations.
After more than 30 years of development, Taiwan has established a foundation of infrastructure and R&D capabilities in space technology. This includes satellite integration and test, R&D laboratories, satellite operation and control facilities, ground stations and satellite image processing centers. The third phase of the program aims to launch one satellite every year for homeland security and natural environment monitoring such as deforestation and land subsidence.
1. “Pilot High-Resolution Optical Remote Sensing Constellation” and “Ultra High-Resolution Smart Remote Sensing Satellites”: equipped with optical remote sensing payloads and critical components which are developed and manufactured in Taiwan.
2. Synthetic Aperture Radar (SAR) Satellites: equipped with active radar system that emits electromagnetic waves from the satellites to the ground. Due to variations in absorption and reflection of electromagnetic waves by soil, constructions and bodies of water, the satellite can receive the reflected waves and interprets the data without being affected by nightfall or cloudy weather conditions.
3. Promoting Deep-Space Exploration and Scientific Innovations: Following the trend of commercialization in space development, the program advancing satellites or constellations for space exploration, observation and innovative applications. The effort aims to establish a solid foundation for the sustainable development of Taiwan's space technology in the future.
4. Leveraging Shot-Term Sounding Rocket Launch Site: Xuhai Village, Pingtung County is designate as the first short-term sounding rocket launch site in Taiwan, which marks Taiwan’s initial step towards completing the domestic space infrastructure. The two-stage rocket ‘HTTP-3A,’ the first hybrid rocket with direct-drive thrust vector control system in the world, the Stage-2 flight has being successfully launched from the site.
Taiwan has accumulated significant expertise in satellite and rocket development, supported by a robust foundation in industries such as semiconductors, ICT and precision machinery. The government is committed to close collaboration with various sectors, continually advancing space technology, undertaking cutting-edge space missions, disseminating the benefits of space technology and fostering space technology talent. The program aims to establish Taiwan's space supply chain, and position Taiwan as a crucial partner in the global emerging space industry.
6G
Taiwan has established a complete industrial chain in the field of 5G mobile communications, and has established globally competitive technology capabilities in the fields of mobile phone chips, radio frequency, base stations, and private networks. Some fields have also developed towards Beyond 5G.
The National Science and Technology Council (NSTC) has begun to deploy 6G technology to meet the global 6G standard schedule. The cross-ministry and industry-university-research collaboration promoted by NSTC not only encourages universities to invest in 6G advanced technology research and development, but also strengthens the layout of 6G key intellectual property, develops prototype systems and related chips, participates in international organizations, and links future innovative applications.
According to the trend in international standards, 3D communication networks will become a part of the 6G mobile network architecture. The nation is currently gradually accumulating research and development capabilities for low-orbit satellite communication systems. After further integration with the 6G mobile network in the future, it will jointly complete the nation’s 3D communication network layout and construction in the generation of 6G. Therefore, the government has invested 260 million TWD in advanced 6G technology development and verification, including:
1. Higher C-Band MIMO Antenna System
2. 3D Communication Network with High Energy Efficiency
3. Reconfigurable Intelligent Surface
4. Technological Sovereignty for High-Speed Optical Network
5. Open RAN Architecture
In 2023, the government has also launched the “Early-stage planning/research and development plan for the 6G industry development project” to promoting collaborative development of the next-generation 6G technologies, participation of international organizations, infrastructure construction and innovative applications.
The development of 6G communication technology will address the overall needs of Taiwan society. This includes bridging the urban-rural development gap, ensuring digital equity, enhancing age-friendly environments, and sustaining our leadership in the ICT industry. The objective is to establish inclusive and sustainable societal applications, promote efficient technological innovation, and facilitate global talent development.