#Japan #ISS #Aroma Capsule #Fuji City #Sunsho Pharmaceutical

Aroma Capsule Eye Mask Set for Space

In an exciting venture for both science and wellness, Sunsho Pharmaceutical Co., Ltd. has announced the innovative development of an eye mask integrated with seamless aroma capsules, designed to enhance relaxation for astronauts aboard the International Space Station (ISS). Utilizing JAXA's (Japan Aerospace Exploration Agency) paid utilization program on the Kibo module, this unique product aims to improve the quality of life for both astronauts in space and people on Earth.

Background and Significance of the Collaboration

This groundbreaking project is part of the "Think Space Life Accelerator Program 2021," a collaboration aimed at fostering new business initiatives that enhance life on Earth and in space. Three companies—Sunsho Pharmaceutical, Nitori Holdings, and IRiS Tokyo—joined forces to address critical issues faced by astronauts during long-term missions, such as sleep disturbances, relaxation needs, and olfactory stimulation. Together, they developed an eye mask that provides a novel sleeping experience through the combination of warmth and soothing scents, making life beyond Earth a bit more comfortable.

The eye mask is expected to be used by Japanese crew members as early as summer 2025 in Kibo, the Japanese Experiment Module of the ISS, where astronauts will have the chance to experience this innovative relaxation tool.

How the Aroma Capsule Works

The unique aroma capsules used in this eye mask are designed by IRiS Tokyo and filled with a blend of natural essential oils that are incorporated into high-seal seamless capsules created by Sunsho Pharmaceutical. These capsules are embedded within the mask's felt material, ensuring that the fragrance remains fresh for an extended period. Users can effortlessly release the scent by gently pressing the capsule whenever desired, allowing for a refreshing forest-like aroma to fill the air, evoking the sensations of nature even in the confines of a spacecraft.

Furthermore, the mask is equipped with Nitori's moisture-absorbing and heat-generating material known as “N-Warm,” providing a warm and comforting experience that complements the calming scents, promoting better sleep and relaxation.

Meeting Challenges of Space Environment

Products intended for use in space must adhere to significantly higher safety, stability, and durability standards compared to those used on Earth. Therefore, developing a structure capable of securely and safely containing volatile essential oils was paramount. Extensive material selection, formulation design, and structural validation processes were carried out to ensure the safety standards required for launching to the ISS were met. This marks the first instance that JAXA's program will include a mechanism for providing scent on the ISS through the use of encapsulated essential oils.

This advanced project represents a significant step toward creating new value to enrich life both in space and on Earth, merging cutting-edge technology with wellness-oriented design.

Future Prospects

By applying the formulation technology developed over the years in the OEM of health foods and supplements, this initiative marks a pioneering effort for Sunsho Pharmaceutical to utilize its expertise in the extreme conditions of space. The insights gained from this space mission will enhance the design and manufacturing capabilities of the aroma capsules. There are also plans to explore additional applications for such products on Earth, focusing on themes such as relaxation and wellness.

Moreover, discussions are ongoing regarding the commercialization of the aroma capsule eye mask, with a search for retail partners. Companies interested in leveraging aroma technology for new product development are also encouraged to reach out.

Comments from Project Leader

Mitsuhiro Fukuda, Director of New Applications Development at Sunsho Pharmaceutical, stated:

"Our core focus was developing a system that allows for the safe handling of liquid essential oils even in microgravity. This project posed unprecedented challenges for us, from capsule formulation to adhering to safety protocols and export security regulations. Each milestone we overcame not only paved the way for this project but also sets the groundwork for future technological applications. We are excited about the prospect of applying this technology not only in space but also in terrestrial products, driving new value creation through our aroma capsules in collaboration with our partner companies."

Contact Information

For more information about the aroma capsules and this initiative, please contact:

Sunsho Pharmaceutical Co., Ltd.

• - Contact: Kenichi Fujisaku (Public Relations)
• - Email: [email protected]

For inquiries regarding the eye mask:
Nitori Holdings Corporation

• - Contact: Shin Yamazaki
• - Email: [email protected]

For questions about essential oils and fragrances:
IRiS Tokyo

• - Contact: Yasuko Ishii (CEO)
• - Email: [email protected]

Company Details

Nitori Holdings Corporation

• - Location: Sapporo, Hokkaido, Japan
• - CEO: Akio Nitori
• - Business Focus: Planning and selling furniture and interior goods.
• - Website: Nitori

IRiS Tokyo

• - Location: Shibuya, Tokyo, Japan
• - CEO: Yasuko Ishii
• - Business Focus: Space aroma design, wellness lifestyle solutions.

Sunsho Pharmaceutical Co., Ltd.

• - Location: Fuji City, Shizuoka, Japan
• - CEO: Akira Imamura
• - Business Focus: OEM for health foods and pharmaceutical formulation research.
• - Website: Sunsho