A delegation of innovative Japanese companies has explored collaborating with the UK on a variety of space-related projects at a special event at Space Park Leicester.
Representatives from seven innovative Japanese start-ups visited the University of Leicester’s £100 million research, innovation and teaching hub for space-related high-tech companies and researchers last week as part of the J-StarX SpaceTech Acceleration Programme.
The programme is helping Japanese organisations develop connections with companies in the UK and France which are widely recognised as Europe’s most dynamic space markets.
Vinay Patel, Head of Commercial and Innovation at Space Park Leicester, said: “This was a great opportunity for organisations here to develop international relationships with a variety of innovative Japanese space companies.
“One of our visitors acts as a one-stop shop for space operations, providing the tools, processes and training needed to ensure space missions are successful in the most demanding environments.
“Others are working on innovations that will support the sustainable growth of the space industry and technologies that are helping to drive the sector forward.
“It was great to see fantastic companies from the UK and Japan showcasing their work and discussing potential areas of collaboration for the future.”
The delegation included representatives from:
- VISION IV – develops, manufactures and distributes synthetic diamond for sensor and semiconductor applications
- Tenchijin – provides land evaluation services using satellite data and AI, helping companies and governments optimise their activities in sectors like water services, renewable energy and agriculture
- ElevationSpace – develops return-capable small spacecraft for microgravity R&D using lift re-entry
- BULL – develops HORN, a passive post-mission disposal device for rockets and satellites. Designed with no power, propellant or control, HORN prevents new debris and supports sustainable growth of the space industry
- Letara – develops next generation hybrid propulsion using plastic as solid fuel to combine safety, cost-efficiency and high-thrust to enable affordable space access and drive global leadership in orbital mobility and transportation
- Thermalytica – advancing carbon reduction with TIISA®, a patented insulation technology applied across space, energy, EVs, hydrogen and sustainable buildings
- JAOPS – a one-stop-shop for Space Operations, JAOPS delivers the tools, processes and training to ensure space mission success in the most demanding environments
The Japanese delegation also had the opportunity to tour Space Park Leicester and learn about its facilities.
The J-StarX SpaceTech Acceleration Programme is implemented by Starburst and the Japan External Trade Organisation (JETRO) in collaboration with JAXA (Japan Aerospace Exploration Agency).
To explore Space Park Leicester partnerships, missions, residents, facilities, training programmes and innovation products, visit https://www.space-park.co.uk or to learn more about the University of Leicester visit https://le.ac.uk/.