DigitalBlast Signs Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with Asian Institute of Technology to Promote Innovation in Space Utilization R&D

January 22, 2025

DigitalBlast and the Asian Institute of Technology (AIT) Sign MoU to Foster Innovation in Space Utilization Research and Development

DigitalBlast Inc. (Headquarters: Chiyoda-ku, Tokyo; CEO: Shingo Horiguchi), a company supporting the development of small-scale life science experiment devices, the revitalization of the space industry, and the creation of new businesses, has signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with the Asian Institute of Technology (AIT, Bangkok, Thailand; President: Prof. Pai-Chi Li) as of January 10, 2025.

Through this MoU, the two organizations aim to foster innovation in space utilization R&D by conducting joint research, organizing knowledge-sharing events, and providing student internship opportunities. Additionally, both parties intend to actively collaborate in realizing future services related to in-orbit research and development (R&D) and manufacturing platforms, including DigitalBlast’s compact life science experiment device “AMAZ,” genome and bioanalysis in orbit, and ground-based analytical support.

Comment from DigitalBlast CEO Shingo Horiguchi

“We at DigitalBlast are thrilled to begin discussions on human resource development and internship opportunities with AIT, a hub of diversity that connects Asian countries through academic programs and ideals. As a young and vibrant community committed to advancing humanity through space R&D, we look forward to future collaborations and interactions. We also hope to cultivate a lasting friendship with AIT through this partnership.”

Future Activities

Following the MoU signing, DigitalBlast and AIT plan to engage in the following activities:

 

Professor Pai-Chi Li, President of AIT (left), and Shingo Horiguchi, CEO of DigitalBlast (right)

Professor Pai-Chi Li, President of AIT (left), and Shingo Horiguchi, CEO of DigitalBlast (right)

 

About the Compact Life Science Experiment Device “AMAZ”

DigitalBlast has been advancing the research and development of the compact life science experiment device “AMAZ,” which generates artificial gravity. The cultivation system and method used in AMAZ were patented in 2022 (Patent No. 7164910).

AMAZ consists of three experimental compartments, each capable of rotating at different angular velocities to create artificial gravity environments. When installed on the International Space Station (ISS), AMAZ can simulate microgravity, lunar gravity (1/6th of Earth’s gravity), and various artificial gravity conditions, allowing simultaneous comparison of three different gravity environments. This enables fundamental research on biological responses to gravity through cultivation and culture experiments.

Image of the small-scale life science experiment device “AMAZ (Amatsu)”

 

About the Asian Institute of Technology (AIT)

The Asian Institute of Technology (AIT) is an international higher education institution established in 1959. Located in Thailand, AIT focuses on advanced learning, research, and capacity development in engineering, science, technology, and management. Its mission is to develop highly skilled professionals who contribute to sustainable regional development and integration into the global economy.