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Space BD Inc., a space business operator providing various services including satellite launch service and microgravity research on the International Space Station (ISS),  announced that it has signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) with Chiyoda Corporation. Chiyoda Corp. is a leading integrated engineering company with proven expertise in ISS-related equipment and system development. Through this strategic partnership, the two companies aim to foster utilization of the space environment and contribute to advancing commercial space utilization globally.

 

Left: Toshiyuki Ito, Vice President of Chiyoda Corporation
Right: Masatoshi Nagasaki, Representative Director Co-Founder & CEO of Space BD

 

Background and Purpose of the Partnership
In recent years, space development has increasingly shifted toward the leadership of the private sector. As demand for resource utilization, infrastructure development, and commercialization in outer space grows, it is crucial for Japan to secure international competitiveness and maximize the benefits derived from space-based activities.

Space BD has developed a diverse portfolio of space-related services, including support for satellite launches, facilitation of life science experiments aboard the ISS, provision of testing and demonstration opportunities via the ISS external platforms, and implementation of talent development programs in the space sector. The company is also strengthening its in-house engineering capabilities and hardware development to expand utilization of outer space.

Meanwhile, Chiyoda Corporation has contributed to the development, manufacturing, and operation of space-use devices such as life science experiment equipment and data/image communication systems for the ISS. The company seeks to further broaden its presence in the space field by building new frameworks for business expansion.

This collaboration aims to combine Space BD’s strengths in business development, commercialization, and talent cultivation with Chiyoda’s engineering expertise and project management capabilities, particularly in the field of ISS-related equipment development. Together, they aim to unlock new possibilities in space utilization and contribute to the global competitiveness of Japan’s space industry.

 

Key Areas of Collaboration
1. Development and Operation of Space Infrastructure
・Establishing platforms for space environment utilization targeting businesses and research institutions
・Developing commercially viable infrastructure in Low Earth Orbit (LEO)

2. Promotion of Commercial Space Business
・Supporting small satellite startups through engineering and design assistance
・Creating new businesses through industry, academia, government collaboration

3. Contribution to Sustainability
・Improving the efficiency of terrestrial industries through satellite data applications
・Exploring systems for dispatching the next generation of space engineers

 

Future Outlook
Space BD and Chiyoda will aim to promote space environment utilization, support Japan’s growing role in space development, and cultivate new opportunities. Both companies also intend to participate proactively in international space projects, contributing to the growth of the global space economy.
Details regarding specific initiatives under this partnership will be announced in due course.

 

◾️About Chiyoda Corporation
Chiyoda Corporation is an integrated engineering company that has contributed to solving global challenges through plant construction in approximately 60 countries and regions since its founding in 1948. Under our purpose of ‘Enriching Society through Engineering Value’, Chiyoda contributes to creating a sustainable and prosperous future for the planet and its inhabitants by applying its extensive technical capabilities and project execution skills in collaboration with customers and partners in a wide range of business areas, including energy, decarbonization, life sciences and space.

Through these initiatives, Chiyoda continues contributing to the development of sustainable society under our purpose of ‘Enriching society through Engineering Value’.

Company Name: Chiyoda Corporation
Chiyoda Global Headquarters: Minatomirai Grand Central Tower 4-6-2, Minatomirai, Nishi-ku, Yokohama 220-8765, Japan
Representative: Koji Ota, Representative Director, President & CEO
Established: January 20, 1948
Business Activities: Integrated engineering business
URL: https://www.chiyodacorp.com/en/

 

◾️About Space BD
Space BD is a one-stop service provider committed to advancing the commercial utilization of space. Its services span a wide range—from launching small satellites via commercial rockets and the International Space Station, to supporting pharmaceutical research through protein crystallization in microgravity.
With end-to-end capabilities, Space BD provides comprehensive support including business planning, market research, and hands-on technical operations. As of April 2025, the company has supported over 90 satellite projects and more than 610 space transport missions.
URL: https://space-bd.com/en/