AstroX

AstroX Inc., established on May 20, 2022, is a private space startup focused on addressing Japan's satellite launch vehicle shortage. The company was founded by Shobu Oda, a serial entrepreneur with a background in IT who has successfully founded, managed, and sold several companies. His venture into the space industry stems from a childhood interest and a recognition of the critical need for a domestic launch infrastructure to support Japan's growing space sector.

The company is developing satellite launch vehicles specifically for small satellites, primarily those under 100kg, to serve the rapidly growing global and domestic market for satellite services. AstroX is pioneering a "Rockoon" (rocket-balloon) method, which involves launching a rocket from a high-altitude balloon in the stratosphere. This approach is designed to offer high-frequency and low-cost launches by mitigating challenges such as limited land-based launch sites (spaceports) in Japan and heavy air and sea traffic. The core of their technology is a hybrid rocket, which offers safety and cost advantages while being compact and powerful.

Headquartered in Minamisoma, Fukushima, AstroX is deeply integrated with the local community and has established R&D centers to advance its technology. The firm has secured funding from notable investors, including Mitsubishi UFJ Capital and Nissay Capital, to fuel its research, development, and talent acquisition. A significant milestone is the successful testing of their suborbital rocket "FOX," including its attitude control system, and experiments involving air-launching model rockets from a balloon with azimuth control. The company aims for its first launch into space (altitude of 100km) in fiscal year 2025 and to reach a 500km satellite orbit by fiscal year 2028.

Keywords: space transportation, satellite launch, small satellites, Rockoon, hybrid rocket, aerospace, launch vehicles, Fukushima, Shobu Oda, space infrastructure