MJOLNIR SPACEWORKS Selected for Space Strategy Fund
18 Billion Yen R&D Project Over Four Years
MJOLNIR SPACEWORKS Co., Ltd. is pleased to announce that our proposal, “Development of System Design Technology and Manufacturing Process for Ultra-Lightweight Accumulators”, has been selected under the technical development theme “Development of Rocket Components and Parts Contributing to High-Frequency Launches” in the second phase of the Space Strategy Fund, publicly solicited by the Japan Aerospace Exploration Agency (JAXA). Over the next four years, we will conduct research and development totaling approximately 1.8 billion yen. This project aims to develop ultra-lightweight accumulators to contribute to internationally competitive high-frequency launches and to build a sustainable supply chain for global space transportation systems.
Background
With the growth of the commercial space industry, advances in space exploration, and technological innovation, demand for satellite launches—such as for building satellite constellations—is rapidly increasing worldwide. However, there is currently a global shortage of rocket launch opportunities. In Japan, the annual number of domestic rocket launches remains below 10, failing to meet the needs of domestic satellite operators. As a result, operators are forced to seek launch opportunities overseas, leading to economic losses and delays in technological development. Therefore, establishing a space transportation system capable of high-frequency launches to meet domestic demand has become a pressing issue.
Research and Development Overview
Accumulators and tanks are critical components that make up a large portion of rockets. This R&D project will focus on building system design technology and developing manufacturing processes to enable mass production of ultra-lightweight accumulators at the world’s highest standards. This will allow for large-scale supply of space-grade accumulators and contribute to high-frequency launches.
Future Outlook
We aim to provide our accumulators to rockets worldwide, paving the way for an era where anyone can go to space. MJOLNIR SPACEWORKS will continue to contribute to the advancement of the space industry.
Note (1): The initial subsidy period runs from the date of grant decision to the end of the fiscal year in which the first stage-gate evaluation is completed.
Note (2): The maximum support amount is subject to change based on future stage-gate reviews.
Selection Details
- Technical Development Theme: Development of Rocket Components and Parts Contributing to High-Frequency Launches
- Lead Organization: MJOLNIR SPACEWORKS Co., Ltd.
- Principal Investigator: Hiroki Iwaki
- Project Title: Development of System Design Technology and Manufacturing Process for Ultra-Lightweight Accumulators
- Related Information: https://fund.jaxa.jp/techlist/theme2_19/
About MJOLNIR SPACEWORKS
Founded in 2020 in Sapporo, Hokkaido, MJOLNIR SPACEWORKS (MSW) is a startup aiming to “mass-produce rockets like automobiles.” We are developing and mass-producing hybrid rocket engines and weldless tanks. Our design uses plastic fuel and liquid oxidizers for safety and cost efficiency. In 2024, we successfully conducted a ground combustion test of a 40 kN-class engine. Supported by NEDO and having raised a cumulative total of approximately 850 million yen, we are accelerating technological enhancement and global expansion.
- Company Name: MJOLNIR SPACEWORKS Co., Ltd.
- Headquarters: Noblesse SAPPORO Room 201, Kita 10-jo Nishi 3-1-1, Kita-ku, Sapporo, Hokkaido
- CEO: Kazuo Yonekura
- Established: January 21, 2020
- Business: Design, manufacturing, and sales of aerospace equipment, space devices, and related components
- Website: https://mjolnir-sw.com/
