OCTOBER 2023AEROSPACEDEFENSEREVIEW.COM19THE SPACE RENAISSANCETaiwan's space industry has traditionally been a governmental endeavor, primarily under the Taiwan Space Agency's (TASA) purview. However, a significant shift occurred in 2019 when TASA broadened its horizons to involve private enterprises in space-related projects. This milestone opened the door for many leading-edge companies.HelioX Cosmos plays a key role in this transformation, with an ambitious mission to democratize space applications for broader societal implications."Our multi-faceted approaches aspire not just to keep up with the global space industry but also to influence the direction in which it grows. From orchestrating commercial satellite launches to contributing to life sciences research, and fostering educational engagement in space sciences, we want to become a pivotal force in advancing the sector's multidisciplinary applications," says Bill Chang, CEO of HelioX Cosmos.This overarching mission is fueled by Chang's personal vision. He wants to dispel the notion that space is solely the domain of engineers, high-ranking officials, or specific political agendas. Instead, it should be a frontier that is accessible to all. Through HelioX Cosmos' diverse range of services, Chang actively advocates for this more inclusive view of space exploration and utilization.One of its critical roles entails operating at a strategic nexus within the industry, connecting launch providers such as SpaceX, Arianespace, and other aggregators like X Launch, with clients requiring diverse launch and transportation services. This includes terrestrial logistics to move satellites to launch pads and providing technical advice and support for necessary international documentation, such as frequency coordination.At the same time, it addresses another vital market need by serving as a centralized platform for procuring specialized hardware components and subsystems. In a pivotal move in 2021, HelioX Cosmos facilitated Taiwan's biggest and most ambitious CubeSat mission on SpaceX's Falcon 9 Transporter-1. This mission exemplified the company's capability to execute full-scale satellite launches.Going the extra mile, it also offers space flight verification services, allowing other organizations to validate their components for operational use in space. This service enables organizations to obtain empirical evidence validating the operational viability of their components in space. Some of these components are further analyzed when they return to Earth.HelioX Cosmos's collaboration with space services company SpaceBD is equally commendable. It led to a seminal contract with Taiwan's National Central University (NCU) and Japanese lunar exploration company, ispace. This partnership has solidified its reputation as Taiwan's leading commercial lunar service provider. The deal, slated for execution next year, aims to deliver a payload to the Moon, marking a pivotal moment for Taiwan's space industry.HelioX Cosmos has been simultaneously making strides in space biology. It has already completed two missions in collaboration with the Taiwanese Research Institute (TRI) to send virus-like particles into space for protein growth, aiming to apply the research findings for vaccine development against livestock diseases in Taiwan. The first mission was launched on December 21, 2021, and the second followed on November 22, 2022.A novelty service the company is engaged in is memorial spaceflights. This service elevates the notion of tribute by launching sentimental items--remains of a loved one, heartfelt letters, or other cherished tokens--into space. To make these sentimental journeys possible, HelioX Cosmos collaborates with niche launch providers like Space NTK and Space One. Moreover, the company leverages the capabilities of the International Space Station's Kibo module to offer spaceflight heritage services, enriching its eclectic portfolio.Education and community outreach are also integral to HelioX Cosmos' vision. In a noteworthy initiative, the company sent student-created cards into space. These cards, containing messages from the students to their future selves, were enclosed in a small CubeSat. The endeavor served as a means to connect young people more deeply with the concept of space as part of their day-to-day lives.These services demonstrate how HelioX Cosmos is constantly expanding the traditional boundaries of the space industry. "Our aim is to be that `sweet corner' in the marketplace where everyone feels compelled to engage in meaningful conversations and collaborations," says Chang.Taking that vision forward through consultation, planning, scheduling, and a tailored range of services, HelioX Cosmos is poised to amplify its influence in South Asia's burgeoning space sector. Space is Just a Launch AwayHelioX Cosmos TOP 10SOLUTIONS PROVIDERS IN APAC - 2023Bill Chang,CEO
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