Japanese rocket launcher developer Interstellar Technologies has secured ¥3.1 billion ($21 million) in a Series E funding round, as announced on August 5. This round saw investments from new participants SBI GROUP and NTT DOCOMO, alongside continued support from Resona Bank. This brings Interstellar's total funding to ¥17 billion ($120 million). The company intends to use these funds to accelerate its rocket and satellite operations.
Interstellar Technologies is focused on building Japan's first vertically integrated rocket and satellite business. This includes the development of three vehicles: the Zero orbital class launch vehicle, the Deca super-heavy lift vehicle, and the Momo suborbital vehicle. The company is also pursuing a "Satellite Communications 3.0" project, with the aim of launching satellites capable of communicating directly with smartphones.
The funding round also saw participation from Japan's National Institute of Information and Communications Technology (NICT). Interstellar Technologies is collaborating with NICT on a joint research project exploring communications systems using formation-flying satellites.
“Space transportation is becoming increasingly important as infrastructure supporting the industrial foundation of the vast space market, with competition in the private market intensifying globally. However, domestic operators remain limited,” commented SBI Investment Co. Deputy General Manager Hiroyuki Ono. “Interstellar Technologies has been recognized as a leading company in Japan with the potential to excel globally, prompting our investment.”