Epson Makes Strategic Investment in Microsatellite Innovator Axelspace

by Simon Mansfield Sydney, Australia (SPX) Jul 25, 2024 SPX

Epson, alongside its subsidiary Epson X Investment Corporation (EXI), has invested in Axelspace Holdings, the parent company of Axelspace Corporation, a pioneering startup in microsatellite development and manufacturing. This investment was facilitated through the EP-GB Investment Limited Partnership fund.

Axelspace, with its mission to bring "Space within Your Reach," operates AxelLiner, which focuses on the development, manufacturing, and operation of microsatellites, and AxelGlobe, which specializes in Earth observation data collection, satellite imagery sales, and related analytical services.

The space industry is undergoing significant transformation, moving towards rapid commercialization. New ventures and business models are emerging rapidly within the new space sector. These include solutions that leverage satellite data, high-frequency observation services using microsatellite constellations, on-orbit services, and the development of space resources. The number of satellites launched worldwide is projected to double over the next decade, with sustained growth in satellite space data and technology utilization.

Axelspace has established itself as a key player in private-sector satellite manufacturing, having designed, manufactured, and currently operating nine microsatellites. The company has demonstrated its capability in volume production by simultaneously manufacturing four GRUS satellites for its AxelGlobe data service.

As the on-orbit services sector and the use of space data and technology continue to expand, Axelspace plans to grow its core businesses: an Earth observation platform and comprehensive microsatellite services.

Epson's corporate vision, Epson 25 Renewed, aims to contribute to the development of a smart society by leveraging its advanced technologies in crystal devices and semiconductors, which are known for their efficiency, compactness, and precision.

Epson and EXI chose to invest in Axelspace due to its competitive edge in the expanding space data and technology sector, its robust technological capabilities, and its proven track record. Additionally, Epson sees potential synergies with its own sensing device technologies.

Looking ahead, Epson aims to support the creation of a sustainable society through collaboration with diverse partners, utilizing its proprietary technologies, products, and services.