Foxconn has launched two second-generation low-Earth orbit satellites, PEARL-1A and PEARL-1B, aboard a SpaceX Falcon 9 rocket from California.

The satellites successfully reached their intended orbits and are expected to operate for about five years.

They will be used mainly to test and validate communication and space science payload technologies.

The launch marks an expansion of Foxconn’s efforts beyond electronics manufacturing into space technology, Reuters has reported.

The company plans to use the mission to develop capabilities for future satellite-based services and systems.