Rapidtek Introduces the FoldSAT Portable Satellite Terminal
At the recent 2025 Taipei Aerospace Defense Technology Exhibition (TADTE), Rapidtek Technologies Inc. unveiled their latest innovation, the FoldSAT portable Low Earth Orbit (LEO) satellite terminal. This development not only underscores Rapidtek's commitment to advancing space communication technology but also highlights their experience and collaboration in co-developing solutions tailored for specific customer needs.
Co-Development Model
Rapidtek, headquartered in Taipei, Taiwan, has established itself as a leader in space communication modules and phased-array antenna technology. The FoldSAT terminal was developed in partnership with a customer, showcasing both the company's technological capabilities and the potential of collaboration in the fast-evolving field of satellite communications. The product, now set to launch under the customer’s brand, maintains Rapidtek’s core technologies, fostering the growth of the LEO communications ecosystem.
FoldSAT's Key Features
The FoldSAT terminal is designed with portability and reliability in mind. Lightweight and rugged, it can be deployed in just a matter of minutes, making it ideal for applications in defense operations, disaster recovery, remote agriculture, and energy infrastructure. Key features include:
- - Ku-band Full-Duplex Antenna: Supporting data speeds of up to 195 Mbps for downlink and 32 Mbps for uplink.
- - Wi-Fi 6 Connectivity: Ensuring high-performance connectivity in various environments.
- - Military-Grade Compliance: Certified to MIL-STD 810H/461G standards, providing assurance that it can withstand harsh conditions.
- - Portable Battery Power: Offering around 180 minutes of operational endurance, ideal for tactical deployments.
Arthur Wang, Rapidtek's Chairman, commented on the product's significance, expressing that the FoldSAT represents a successful collaboration between Rapidtek and its partners. This co-development model not only enhances Rapidtek’s position in the LEO communications space but signifies a strategic expansion into practical applications for their RF technology.
Showcase of the Black Kite-1 Satellite
In addition to the FoldSAT terminal, Rapidtek also showcased their 8U IoT satellite called Black Kite-1, developed in collaboration with the Taiwan Space Agency (TASA). Following the successful Nightjar mission, the Black Kite-1 satellite will be launched later this year aboard a SpaceX rocket, aimed at validating IoT payload performance. The combination of the FoldSAT terminal with the 8U satellite demonstrates Rapidtek's Earth-to-Space strategy, reinforcing their role as a comprehensive solution provider in satellite communications.
Future Developments
Rapidtek has ambitious plans for the future. Over the next three years, they intend to deploy a constellation of satellites paired with innovative ground terminal solutions, extending their reach into various domains, including national defense, smart agriculture, disaster response, and energy operations. This integrated approach not only showcases their technical prowess but also places Taiwan at the forefront of the emerging global LEO communications market.
About Rapidtek Technologies Inc.
Founded in 2015, Rapidtek Technologies has continually evolved alongside advancements in communication technologies. Expanding from RF testing solutions into RF antenna design, they became integral to Taiwan's LEO satellite program in 2021. The establishment of their Next-Generation Antenna Laboratory has led to significant innovations in phased array antenna technology and satellite communications payload systems, solidifying Rapidtek’s reputation as a trusted partner in the global space industry.
In conclusion, as the FoldSAT and Black Kite-1 represent tremendous innovation in their respective domains, Rapidtek's initiatives strengthen Taiwan's foothold in the global communications landscape, setting the stage for future developments in satellite technology.