Japan’s Emerging Private Space Pioneer
Interstellar Technologies Inc. (IST), established in 2013 and headquartered in Taiki, Hokkaido, Japan, is a private aerospace company dedicated to revolutionizing space access through cost-effective and frequent launches. The company aims to provide routine space transportation services, making satellite deployment as commonplace as air travel.
Vision and Mission
IST envisions a future where space is accessible to all, facilitating advancements in communication, environmental monitoring, and scientific research. By developing reliable and affordable launch vehicles, IST seeks to contribute to Japan’s space infrastructure and support the global satellite ecosystem.
Launch Vehicles
MOMO Series
The MOMO series consists of suborbital sounding rockets designed to test and validate technologies for future orbital launches. The first successful launch occurred on May 4, 2019, when MOMO F3 reached an altitude of 113.4 km, crossing the Kármán line and marking Japan’s first privately developed rocket to reach space.
ZERO
ZERO is IST’s orbital-class launch vehicle, intended for deploying small satellites into low Earth orbit (LEO). The rocket is powered by liquid biomethane and aims to deliver payloads of up to 250 kg to a 500 km Sun-synchronous orbit. A static fire test was successfully completed in December 2023, and the maiden flight is planned for 2025.
DECA
DECA is a heavy-lift launch vehicle under development to support larger payloads and satellite constellations. The vehicle is designed to transport cargo to the International Space Station and facilitate Japan’s participation in global space initiatives.
Launch Facilities
IST operates from the Taiki Aerospace Research Field, adjacent to the Japan Aerospace Exploration Agency’s (JAXA) facilities. The site includes multiple launch complexes:
- Launch Complex-0: Used for MOMO launches and static engine tests.
- Launch Complex-1: Planned for ZERO launches, featuring a Vehicle Assembly Building (VAB) and test facilities.
- Launch Complex-2: Under development for frequent ZERO launches, with expanded infrastructure to support multiple vehicles simultaneously.
The expansion of these facilities is part of the Hokkaido Spaceport initiative, aiming to establish a private sector spaceport in Japan.
Funding and Strategic Partnerships
IST has secured significant investments to support its ambitious goals:
- Series E Funding: In August 2024, IST raised ¥3.1 billion (approximately $21 million) from investors including SBI Group, NTT DOCOMO, and Resona Bank.
- Series F Funding: In January 2025, the company secured ¥7 billion (approximately $44 million) from Woven by Toyota, the automaker’s autonomous driving unit.
These partnerships enhance IST’s capabilities in mass production and supply chain management, leveraging Toyota’s expertise in manufacturing.
Achievements and Milestones
- First Private Rocket Launch: In July 2017, IST conducted Japan’s first private rocket launch, though it was unsuccessful.
- Successful Suborbital Flight: On May 4, 2019, MOMO F3 successfully reached space, achieving an altitude of 113.4 km.
- Static Fire Test: In December 2023, IST completed a successful static fire test of the ZERO rocket, validating its propulsion system.
- Upcoming Launch: The maiden flight of the ZERO rocket is scheduled for 2025, marking a significant step toward operational orbital launches.
Future Outlook
IST is committed to advancing Japan’s space capabilities by developing a vertically integrated rocket and satellite infrastructure. The company’s roadmap includes the deployment of the DECA launch vehicle and the establishment of a private sector spaceport, positioning Japan as a competitive player in the global space industry.
Conclusion
Interstellar Technologies Inc. is poised to transform the landscape of space access in Japan. Through strategic partnerships, innovative rocket development, and a clear vision for the future, IST aims to make space transportation routine and accessible, contributing to the growth of the global satellite ecosystem.
