Premier Su Tseng-Chang has signed off on NT$25.1 billion budget of the third phase of the “National Space Technology Long-Term Development Program”. It was the first official document signed by Su since he was appointed as premier since 2019. This 10-year program will be led by the National Space Organization (NSPO) of the National Applied Research Laboratories (NARLabs) under the Ministry of Science and Technology (MOST). This program aims to develop 6 High Resolution Remote Sensing Satellites, 2 Ultra-high Resolution Remote Sensing Satellites and 2 Synthetic Aperture Radar Satellites to establish a foundation for our national space industry.
Minister of Science and Technology, Chen Liang-Gee also indicated the importance of technology skills to Taiwan. Since space technology places an important role in varies of innovating techniques, the Ministry of Science and Technology (MOST) will carry on the important mission.
Developing Remote Sensing Satellite Constellations
The satellite mission of the third phase is based on the scientific outcomes established by the first and the second phase, which inherits the techniques of FORMOSAT-5 and 7 with optical remote sensing payload and key components developed in Taiwan, including Moving Object Detection System, H2O2 Propulsion Module, High Speed X-band Communication System, Complementary Metal-Oxide-Semiconductor Sensor, Korsch Telescope System, AI Seeker and so on. The NSPO is going to cooperate with domestic industries and academics, using commercial components, to develop a satellite bus in order to be cost-effective. It also can enhance the development of domestic space industry.
Guarding Taiwan Day and Night
Synthetic Aperture Radar Satellites are equipped with High Gain Antenna and High Power Amplifier. When satellites send signals to Earth, it will receive the echo signal to further analyze the information. These satellites stand out because they can collect data in all weather; day or night.
The satellites of the third phase will work jointly with FORMOSAT-5, providing Taiwan high resolution satellite imageries and data. It is especially helpful when it comes to national security and environmental transitions. If there is an occurrence of land subsidence or deforestation, we will be able to respond swiftly.
Discovering outer space and establishing sustainable development for Taiwan’s space technology
The third phase of the “National Space Technology Long-Term Development Program” is designed to incorporate with global space business innovation. It promotes outer space exploration as well as scientific innovation projects. It nourishes young talents of space technology and boosts startup companies to become involved in space industry. Taking everything into account, the program is going to be influential to promote our national space industry.
