Development Bank of Japan Inc. ("DBJ") has made an investment in CesiumAstro Inc. ("CesiumAstro"; head office, Austin, Texas; CEO, Shey Sabripour).
CesiumAstro is a startup that designs and manufactures software-defined phased array communications payloads which optimize radio communications between satellites and the ground.
The satellite industry is evolving rapidly, with a significant shift toward small orbiting satellites due to their low latency and global coverage capabilities, essential for modern communication and security requirements. CesiumAstro is at the forefront of this transformation, pioneering the use of advanced phased array antennas. These antennas, which can electronically steer radio waves, have good potential to become the gold standard for efficient and reliable connectivity.
CesiumAstro has succeeded in reducing the size, delivery time, and cost of software-defined, phased array communications payloads, many of which have reached TRL 9, a rating indicating full system deployment and proven operational use. CesiumAstro is one of the first companies to succeed in commercial sales of software-defined phased array communications payloads that are small and mass-producible.
This investment is to support the expansion of CesiumAstro's facilities and personnel against the backdrop of the rapidly increasing demand for the product. In the future, we will consider and support cooperation between CesiumAstro, which develops advanced communications equipment, and Japanese companies, including those in non-space industries, with the aim of contributing to the revitalization and competitiveness of Japanese space industry, as well as the further development of various industries, including ground communications, aircraft, and automobile industries utilizing satellite communications.
DBJ will continue to actively support our customers' efforts to expand the space industry in Japan and around the world based on our corporate philosophy--"Design the future with financial expertise: Continue to expand financial frontiers; Provide the best solutions for customers and society; Pursue sustainable development for Japan and the world."
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