Foxconn Launches Satellites Aboard SpaceX Rocket

Foxconn has successfully launched two prototype low-Earth orbit (LEO) satellites in a bold move to diversify its business portfolio. The historic liftoff occurred aboard a SpaceX rocket from Vandenberg Space Force Base in southern California this Saturday. 

The backpack-sized satellites, weighing approximately 9 kilograms each, were co-developed in collaboration with Taiwan's National Central University. Outfitted with advanced cameras, communication devices, and other equipment, they are designed to orbit Earth every 96 minutes at an altitude of 520 kilometers. Unlike Elon Musk's SpaceX, which has focused on its Starlink constellation, Foxconn is positioning itself to be a key player in the corporate and government satellite market, as per a Bloomberg report.

Foxconn's shift into space technology is reportedly part of a broader strategy initiated by Chairman Young Liu, who assumed leadership in 2019. Faced with challenges in established sectors like smartphones and laptops, the company is actively seeking opportunities in emerging fields. This includes electric vehicles, digital health, robotics, and now, satellite technology, as it aims to secure its position in the ever-evolving tech landscape.

The move, however, comes with its set of challenges. While Foxconn remains a manufacturing powerhouse, the satellite business differs significantly from its core operations. Unlike the predictable, high-volume orders for iPhones, the satellite market, particularly for LEO satellites, can be less certain. In an interview with Bloomberg, Tim Farrar, President of Telecom, Media and Finance Associates Inc., noted the infrequency of satellite orders compared to the rapid turnover in smartphone models.

Recognising the unpredictability, Foxconn appears to be banking on potential government contracts to provide stability to its satellite venture. With Taiwan actively developing its own LEO communication satellite, there could be a local avenue for Foxconn to secure consistent orders and support for its newfound space exploration endeavours.