Tokyo University IPC has invested an additional ¥200 million in Synspective, bringing the total investment to approximately ¥500 million to support the development of advanced SAR satellite technology.

Target Company Overview

Synspective, Inc., located in Chuo, Tokyo and led by CEO Motoyuki Arai, focuses on the development of a constellation of small synthetic aperture radar (SAR) satellites aimed at advancing Earth observation capabilities. Established in February 2018, the company emerged from a national project titled 'Innovative Research and Development Promotion Program (ImPACT)', which was promoted by leading academics including Professor Success Shirataka from Keio University, Professor Shinichi Nakasu from the University of Tokyo, Professor Hirofumi Saito from JAXA, and Professor Jiro Hirokawa from Tokyo Institute of Technology.

Specializing in SAR technology, Synspective's satellites emit their own radio waves and measure the returning signals, allowing them to accurately assess ground shape, elevation, and displacements. Unlike optical satellites, SAR satellites can capture data unaffected by cloud cover or nighttime conditions, making them exceptionally reliable for comprehensive Earth monitoring.

Industry Overview in Japan

The satellite and Earth observation industry in Japan is entering a significant growth phase, driven by technological advancements and increasing demand for precise geographi