Space One Japan – Commercial Small Satellite Launch Company

Space One is a Japanese private space launch company specializing in responsive, low-cost orbital launch services for small satellites. Founded in 2018, Space One is one of Japan’s leading commercial launch providers and plays a key role in expanding the country’s independent access to space.

The company was established as a joint venture supported by major Japanese industrial partners, including IHI Aerospace, Shimizu Corporation, and other aerospace and infrastructure groups. Its mission is to provide fast, flexible, and reliable launch solutions for government, defense, and commercial satellite operators.

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Kairos Rocket – Space One’s Orbital Launch Vehicle

Space One’s primary launch vehicle is the Kairos rocket, a small-lift orbital launcher designed specifically for small satellite missions to low Earth orbit (LEO).

Key features of the Kairos rocket:

• Launch class: Small satellite orbital launcher
• Payload capacity: Approximately 100–150 kilograms to LEO
• Propulsion: Multi-stage solid-fuel rocket
• Design focus: Rapid launch readiness, low operational cost, and high reliability

The Kairos vehicle supports missions such as Earth observation, technology demonstration, scientific research, and national security payloads. Its solid-fuel architecture allows for short launch preparation timelines, making it ideal for responsive space operations.

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Space Port Kii – Japan’s First Private Spaceport

All Space One launches are conducted from Space Port Kii, located in Wakayama Prefecture, Japan. This facility is Japan’s first commercial, privately operated orbital spaceport.

Space Port Kii was developed specifically to support frequent small-rocket launches and strengthens Japan’s domestic launch infrastructure. The site provides direct access to a wide range of orbital inclinations over the Pacific Ocean.

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Strategic Role in Japan’s Space Industry

Space One plays an important role in:

• Expanding Japan’s commercial launch market
• Providing independent access to space for small satellites
• Supporting responsive space and defense missions
• Competing in the global small-launch sector alongside companies such as Rocket Lab, Firefly Aerospace, and Interstellar Technologies

By combining private investment with advanced Japanese aerospace expertise, Space One contributes to Japan’s long-term space strategy and growing satellite economy.

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Future Outlook

With the Kairos program and Space Port Kii now operational, Space One plans to increase its launch cadence, improve vehicle performance, and become a reliable regional launch provider for Asia and international customers.

The company is positioned as a key player in the next generation of Japanese commercial launch services.

Smallsats launched by Space One

Smallsat	Mission	Customer	Country	Purpose
Rapid Launch Small SatelliteLEO	KAIROS Flight 1	Space One		Experimental

Rideshare missions by Space One

Rideshare Mission	Launch date	Launch vehicle	Spacecraft launched	Orbit
KAIROS Flight 3 / ‘Rising-Hope-Star’	25 February 2026	KAIROS	2	LEO
KAIROS Flight 2	18 December 2024	KAIROS	5	LEO

Dedicated missions by Space One

Dedicated Mission	Launch date	Launch vehicle	Orbit
KAIROS Flight 1	13 March 2024	KAIROS	LEO