Taiwan science, technology delegation visits SpaceX, Virgin Orbit

2022/06/20

A Taiwan science and technology delegation has visited Space Exploration Technologies Corp. and Virgin Orbit Holdings Inc. in the U.S. spotlighting government efforts to fast-track the country’s space industry through working with world-class enterprises to enhance next-generation technology, according to the Ministry of Science and Technology June 16.
 
Led by MOST Wu Tsung-tsong, the 15-member group comprises experts and staff from the ministry and National Space Organization under the National Applied Research Laboratory. They called on SpaceX, a California-based spacecraft manufacturer and satellite communications corporation June 13 and were received by Tom Ochinero, vice president of Commercial Sales, and Chad Gibbs, vice president of Starlink Business Operations.
 
Wu said during his visit that Taiwan manufacturers are key suppliers for SpaceX, and for Starlink, its high-speed and low-latency satellite internet constellation. Taiwan is committed to continuing its close, mutual cooperation with SpaceX, Wu said, adding that the country would welcome the company to establish a component testing center in Taiwan.
 
The delegation continued its mission with a visit to Virgin Orbit, which provides air-launch services for small satellites, and was received by chief strategy officer Jim Simpson.
 
The visits follow the promulgation of Taiwan’s Space Development Act Jan. 20 this year. Comprising 22 articles in six chapters, the act covers activities such as registration of launch and space vehicles; approval of launch projects; establishment, operation and management of launch sites; and use of data obtained during missions.
 
The act also stipulates principles for space development. These include conforming to international laws and regulations; ensuring environmental protection and sustainability; protecting the rights and interests of indigenous tribes; and safeguarding national security and information transparency.


Source: Taiwan Today (https://taiwantoday.tw/index.php)