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The GITAI SC1 satellite. Photo: GITAI

The GITAI SC1 satellite. Photo: GITAI

Japanese space robotics startup GITAI is expanding its business to include satellites. The company launched a 16U cubesat on the SpaceX Bandwagon rideshare mission in December, and plans to sell satellite bus components. 

GITAI shared the details of the mission on Monday, which was previously unannounced. The company developed the SC1 satellite in-house, with some procured components. SC1 established communications, validated its onboard sensors, actuators, and computers, and captured and transmitted image and data video back down to Earth. This was GITAI’s first satellite launch. 

The company began developing the satellite in January of 2024 and launched it in less than a year, GITAI CEO Sho Nakanose told Via Satellite. The company plans to offer components for Low-Earth Orbit (LEO) constellation applications. 

“Originally, GITAI started developing the satellite part with the aim of developing a satellite with a robotic arm in-house, which is necessary for providing on-orbit services — but due to the high demand for satellite bus components, we plan to expand our business to include the sale of satellite bus components,” Nakanose said. 

The company intended the mission to demonstrate GITAI as a prime contractor with capabilities including in-house spacecraft development and spacecraft operations. The company plans to compete for U.S. government contracts, and previously expanded its U.S. headquarters.  

In addition, GITAI is preparing for an in-orbit service demonstration. The company plans to launch a 500 kg-class satellite in October of 2026 along with a target satellite to demonstrate proximity operations, docking, and life extension tasks. Nakanose said GITAI has already secured funding for the mission and a launch contract with SpaceX. 

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