#Japan #Osaka #Osaka Expo #AstroX #Rockoon

AstroX Set to Shine at Osaka Kansai Expo 2025 Theme Week

AstroX Inc., a burgeoning private space startup based in Minamisoma, Fukushima, is gearing up for an exciting showcase at the Osaka Kansai Expo 2025 Theme Week. This event, organized by the Reconstruction Agency and the Ministry of Economy, Trade, and Industry, will take place from May 20 to May 24, 2025, and will feature the theme "Building Back Better From the Great East Japan Earthquake."

During this week-long exhibition, AstroX will present its vision to create a future where everyone can access space effortlessly, encompassing several key attractions:

• - A full-scale mockup of their rocket that was launched off the coast of Minamisoma in November 2024.
• - Informative panels detailing the company’s initiatives based in Fukushima.
• - A special photo booth where guests can capture memories with their rockets in a space-themed setting.
• - A stage session featuring CEO Sho Takeuchi and guest speakers scheduled for May 21, from 5 PM to 5:30 PM.

AstroX is rooted in a mission to reclaim Japan's position as a leader in space development. The company embraces a groundbreaking approach with its unique "Rockoon" technology that combines balloon launches with traditional rocket deployments. This innovative method enables high-frequency and low-cost satellite launches, addressing the pressing demand for satellite services.

Background and Development Initiatives

Having established itself in the wake of the 2022 Fukushima Innovation Coast Concept initiative, AstroX has collaborated closely with the Minamisoma government to push the envelope in rocket development. Their partnership has blossomed into promising ventures, including plans for Japan's first civilian rocket launch set for August 2024 in Minamisoma.

AstroX's efforts are particularly timely as global demand for satellites is surging. The space industry is estimated to exceed 160 trillion yen by 2040, with a significant rise in demand for small satellite launches from Japan. Currently, nearly 100% of the country’s small satellites are launched via foreign rockets, presenting a challenge for local growth in space development.

The Rockoon method is AstroX's answer to this dilemma, enabling efficient, frequent launches from a balloon at high altitudes, circumventing some challenges faced by ground-based launch systems.

Event Details

The exhibition will be held at Yumeshima, in Osaka, from 9 AM to 9 PM daily. While general admission to the expo will require a ticket, attendees will have the chance to explore AstroX’s booth, engaging with their vision and understanding their technological milestones firsthand.

The Japan Expo 2025 and accompanying theme week will prominently feature stories of revitalization, innovation, and progress stemming from the calamities of the past. The Reconstruction Agency's exhibition will shed light on challenges people faced during earthquakes and tsunamis while highlighting advancements in disaster technology, local culture, and upcoming innovations.

AstroX's CEO, Sho Takeuchi, shared his enthusiasm regarding the showcase, expressing profound honor in participating in an event that signifies resilience and renewal from national adversity. Their initiative to intertwine space technology with the theme of “Building Back Better” provides an innovative narrative that aligns with Japan's aspirations for recovery and advancement in space exploration.

Media Inquiries

Media representatives are invited to cover the exhibition and stage sessions. For interview opportunities and further details, please reach out to AstroX's Public Relations担当久保 via phone or email.

With the Osaka Kansai Expo on the horizon, anticipation rises not just for AstroX's recent technological endeavors, but for the potential transformation these innovations could herald for the future of Japan’s space industry and community resilience.