DigitalBlast Signs Technical Support Contract with Mitsui & Co. for Conceptual Study of ISS “Kibo” Successor and Japanese Module – Aiming to Build a Platform for Japan’s Private Sector LEO Activities Post-ISS Decommission

September 14, 2023

DigitalBlast, Inc. (Headquarters: Chiyoda-ku, Tokyo, CEO: Shingo Horiguchi, hereinafter referred to as DigitalBlast), which supports the revitalization of the space industry and the creation of new businesses in the space sector, has announced that it has signed a technical support contract with Mitsui & Co., Ltd. (Headquarters: Chiyoda-ku, Tokyo, President: Kenichi Hori, hereinafter referred to as Mitsui & Co.) for the business feasibility study of the ownership and operation of the Japanese module, which will be the successor to the “Kibo” Japanese Experiment Module of the International Space Station (hereinafter ISS). DigitalBlast is participating as a partner company in the “Conceptual Study of a U.S. Commercial Space Station-Connected Japanese Module for a Private Sector-Led Human Low Earth Orbit Base Business” (hereinafter referred to as this study), which is conducted by the National Research and Development Corporation Japan Aerospace Exploration Agency (JAXA), with Mitsui & Co. selected as the operator.

 

Background

The ISS is scheduled to end operations in 2030, and around the world, particularly in the United States, multiple private companies are advancing the development of commercial space stations to take over the “post-ISS” role. In Japan, specific movements are still undecided, but the “Basic Space Plan” decided by the Cabinet in June 2023 includes policies to explore private sector needs utilizing the ISS “Kibo” Japanese Experiment Module and to consider Japan’s role in the post-ISS era. This study was publicly solicited by JAXA to consider the construction of a unique Japanese environment for future Low Earth Orbit (LEO) activities, led by the private sector.

In this study, Mitsui & Co. acts as the operator, collaborating with partner companies to investigate the development specifications, schedule formulation, risk analysis, cost estimation, and establishment of implementation systems for the U.S. commercial space station-connected Japanese module owned by private companies. The commercialization is being considered based on the partial modification and development of a new space station resupply vehicle.

For the press release by Mitsui & Co. regarding this study:
https://www.mitsui.com/jp/ja/topics/2023/1247312_13930.html

 

Role in the Study

DigitalBlast is responsible for assessing the technological, social, and scientific impact that the future Japanese module will bring, as well as compiling the required functions for public use services. Starting with the development of space experiment equipment such as the small life science experiment device AMAZ aimed for installation and operation on the ISS, DigitalBlast has invited Yoshihisa Takeuchi, who has project management experience from the early development of the ISS “Kibo” Japanese Experiment Module at Mitsubishi Heavy Industries, as an advisor to advance the consideration of constructing a space station led by Japan’s private sector for the post-ISS era. Leveraging the experience, knowledge, and know-how accumulated so far, DigitalBlast supports this study from a technical perspective and contributes to the construction of the LEO economic zone, which is expected to accelerate further.

 

About DigitalBlast, Inc.

DigitalBlast is on a mission to redefine the value of space with its motto, “Make Space Valuable.” To enhance the worth of Japan’s space sector, it’s crucial to develop a variety of revenue streams that extend beyond BtoG (business-to-government) transactions. Boasting a diverse team skilled in business strategy, digital technology, and promotion, we take pride in our comprehensive solutions. Our goal is to expand our clients’ revenue options and forge new value within the space industry.

Company Name: DigitalBlast Inc.
Office: Jinbocho mitsui building 19F,1-105 Kanda Jinbocho, Chiyoda-ku, Tokyo, 101-0051, Japan
Representative: Shingo Horiguchi (CEO)
Established: December 2018
Website: https://digitalblast.co.jp/

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