#Japan #Minamisoma #AstroX #Rockoon #JapanSpace

AstroX Secures Funding for Groundbreaking Rockoon Technology

AstroX, a burgeoning private space startup based in Minamisoma, Fukushima, has successfully raised a total of 1.8 billion yen in funding through a Series A round, including 1.36 billion yen in equity financing led by Alpha Corporation and 440 million yen in debt financing from multiple financial institutions. This significant investment will allow AstroX to accelerate the development of its satellite launch vehicle using the innovative Rockoon method, aiming to reach outer space by 2026.

The Vision Behind AstroX

Founded in May 2022, AstroX is committed to reclaiming Japan's status as a leader in space development. As the global space industry experiences rapid growth, it is expected to exceed approximately 160 trillion yen by 2040, with satellite services being a primary driver in this expansion. However, Japan currently faces a severe shortage of rockets capable of launching satellites, relying almost entirely on foreign rockets for its small satellite launches. This gap in launch opportunities poses a significant challenge to Japan's space development endeavors.

AstroX aims to overcome this issue and transform the space industry into one of Japan's major sectors by implementing a cost-effective, high-frequency, and responsive launch method through the Rockoon system, which utilizes balloons to launch rockets from high altitudes.

Accelerating Development Post-Funding

Following a successful test of their hybrid rocket at an altitude of 10 km in November 2024, AstroX is diligently progressing with various technical evaluations, including ground combustion tests of their small hybrid rocket engine, and wind tunnel tests aimed at verifying posture control devices. The funding acquired will expedite the development of the Rockoon system, contributing towards the practical application of this pioneering technology in space transport.

Seeking Passionate Individuals in Aerospace

AstroX is actively looking for talented individuals to join its rocket development efforts. Those who resonate with the company's mission or have even a slight interest in space development are encouraged to reach out.

• - Recruitment Site: AstroX Recruitment

Investor Comments on AstroX's Vision

Several investors have expressed their strong support for AstroX's ambitious journey, highlighting the potential of the Rockoon method to reinvent space transportation in Japan.

• - Keisuke Tachioka, General Partner at Alpha Corporation: "AstroX's challenge is the very future of Japan's space industry. The passion to reinvent space transport with the unprecedented Rockoon method and the team's exceptional technical expertise is unparalleled. Alpha will fully support AstroX's journey to establish a new space transport infrastructure from Japan."

• - Takaya Kumagai, Senior Manager at Daiwa Institute of Venture: "AstroX is taking on an innovative challenge to launch satellites using the Rockoon method, a feat that no one has yet accomplished worldwide. If successful, it will significantly reduce launch costs and increase operational flexibility, transforming the norms of space transportation."

• - Shota Araki, General Partner at Animal Spirits LLC: "The shortage of infrastructure for small satellite transport is critical for Japan’s competitiveness. By combining hybrid rockets and balloons, AstroX offers a unique transport solution that balances safety and cost-effectiveness, contributing not only to the space industry but also to local economic revitalization."

• - Masaya Naito, Senior Director at Deepcore Inc.: "AstroX's innovative space transport system using the Rockoon method promises low-cost and high-frequency launches, with the potential to radically change the space business landscape. The execution power and technical expertise of the team are commendable."

• - Ryo Ishima, Senior Director at Shizuoka Capital Co.: "I believe that the bottleneck in Japan's space industry lies in launch vehicles. AstroX's vision of reclaiming Japan’s space leadership resonates deeply with me. Their operations can facilitate significant industry transformation, especially in regions rich with automotive suppliers."

• - Yuka Hattori, CEO of Inclusion Japan: "Having joined in the previous round, I have been continuously amazed by the remarkable progress and technical advancements made by AstroX, particularly in reducing and lightening key equipment. It's exhilarating to support their goal of achieving the world’s first successful Rockoon launch. Together, let’s elevate Japan’s space industry!"

Funding Participants

AstroX's funding round included investors such as:

• - Alpha Corporation
• - Daiwa Institute of Venture
• - Animal Spirits LLC
• - Deepcore Inc.
• - Shizuoka Capital Co.
• - Various angel investors

Financial Institutions Involved in This Fundraising

• - Abukuma Shinkin Bank
• - Mizuho Bank
• - Sumitomo Mitsui Banking Corporation

Company Overview

• - Company Name: AstroX Inc.
• - Headquarters: 1-87 Honcho, Odaka Ward, Minamisoma City, Fukushima Prefecture
• - CEO: Shota Oda, Representative Director
• - Founded: May 20, 2022
• - Business Description: Space transport services
• - Company URL: AstroX