Pioneering New Business Opportunities in Space Toward Building a Low Earth Orbit Economy
Japan LEO Shachu, Inc. (Headquarters: Chuo-ku, Tokyo; CEO: Yudai Yamamoto) today announced the official start of its full-scale development projects for the “Japan Module,” a commercial successor to the International Space Station (ISS) Kibo module, and a commercial cargo resupply vehicle based on the next-generation HTV-X spacecraft. These initiatives have been adopted under Japan’s Space Strategic Fund*, specifically within the categories of “Technologies for Autonomous and Flexible Cargo Resupply Systems with Global Competitiveness” and “Autonomous Low Earth Orbit Module System Technologies”.
Japan LEO Shachu’s mission is to ensure Japan’s continued access and presence in space after the planned retirement of the ISS around 2030. The company aims to contribute to the creation of a new economy in low Earth orbit (LEO) by leveraging Japan’s technological strengths and industrial foundation.
The project aims to drive innovation across terrestrial industries such as life sciences, advanced materials, data processing, and entertainment by leveraging the unique characteristics of low Earth orbit—including microgravity, extreme environments, and human habitation—for scientific experiments and new business creation. By connecting each individual use case, Japan LEO Shachu seeks to build an ecosystem for low Earth orbit utilization centered on the Japan Module.
Upon completion, the Japan Module will be owned and operated by Japan LEO Shachu and connected to a commercial space station led by U.S. private enterprises, providing safe, efficient, and cost-competitive services unique to the LEO environment. In addition, through cargo resupply services to commercial stations, the company will play a vital role in supporting both utilization and construction of space infrastructure.
Japan LEO Shachu is committed to developing a comprehensive framework for Japan’s low Earth orbit activities, built around four core elements: the Japan Module as an orbital base system, utilization of the space environment, cargo resupply operations, and astronaut missions. Through close collaboration between the public and private sectors, the company aims to create a cohesive business ecosystem that maximizes the presence of Japanese players in low Earth orbit. By advancing this initiative, Japan LEO Shachu also seeks to strengthen Japan–U.S. collaboration and contribute to the sustainable growth of the global space industry.
※The Space Strategic Fund is a government program administered by the Japan Aerospace Exploration Agency (JAXA). It supports multi-year initiatives by private companies, universities, and other organizations for cutting-edge technology development, demonstration, and commercialization in the space sector.
For Inquiries, Please Contact
Japan LEO Shachu, Inc.
contact@japan-leo-shachu.com
Official Website
https://japan-leo-shachu.com/
Company Name:Japan LEO Shachu, Inc.
Head Office:2-1-1 Nihonbashi Muromachi, Chuo-ku, Tokyo 103-0022, Japan
Representative:Yudai Yamamoto, Representative Director & CEO
Established:July 2024
Business Activities:Development of a commercial cargo resupply vehicle, the Japan
Module, and utilization of low Earth orbit technologies
Official Website
https://japan-leo-shachu.com/