Gitai Secures $17.1 Million in Series B Funding

Japanese aerospace firm Gitai has successfully completed a $17.1 million Series B funding round. This capital injection is earmarked for both recruitment efforts and the advancement of an upcoming in-space demonstration mission. The mission will validate the effectiveness of Gitai’s robotic systems in performing essential satellite maintenance tasks.

Expanding U.S. Operations

A key component of Gitai’s strategy involves bolstering its presence within the United States. This expansion aims to facilitate increased engagement with the American commercial space sector and secure new business opportunities.

According to Gitai’s founder and CEO, Sho Nakanose, while the company has already secured contracts with Japanese entities, penetrating the U.S. market represents a significant growth area. The initial approach will focus on securing subcontracts with U.S. orbital service providers.

Robotic Capabilities for Satellite Servicing

Gitai possesses substantial expertise in the development of robots designed for on-orbit hardware installation. These robots offer potential solutions for upgrading satellite functionalities, extending operational lifespans through battery replacements, and performing necessary repairs in the event of malfunctions.

Demonstration on the International Space Station

Gitai’s technological prowess is also being showcased through a collaborative demonstration with Nanoracks, utilizing the Bishop Airlock – a commercial addition to the International Space Station.

The company’s robotic arm, designated S1, resembles industrial robots commonly used on Earth. It will demonstrate capabilities such as control panel operation and cable replacement.

Long-Term Vision: Robotic Workforce for Space Colonization

Gitai’s ultimate ambition extends beyond immediate servicing needs. The company envisions a robotic workforce capable of supporting the establishment of lunar and Martian bases, as well as orbital settlements.

With NASA’s plans for sustained lunar research and eventual Mars missions, coupled with private sector initiatives from companies like SpaceX and Blue Origin, the demand for cost-effective robotic labor in challenging environments is anticipated to grow substantially.

The Origin of Gitai: A Personal Motivation

The genesis of Gitai stems from a deeply personal experience for Nakanose. He believes his mother’s passing could have been prevented with the assistance of robotic technology.

This conviction spurred him to develop robots that enhance human capabilities, leading to a focused exploration of the most commercially viable applications. His research ultimately identified space as the optimal long-term opportunity for a robotics startup, resulting in the founding of Gitai.

Investment Details

This funding round was spearheaded by SPARX Innovation for the Future Co. Ltd. Additional investment came from DcI Venture Growth Fund, Dai-ichi Life Insurance Company, and EP-GB, Epson’s venture investment division.

• Key Investors: SPARX, DcI Venture Growth Fund, Dai-ichi Life, EP-GB
• Funding Amount: $17.1 million (Series B)
• Focus Areas: Hiring, on-orbit demonstration mission