Toyoda Gosei Invests in Synspective Inc., a Startup That Develops and Operates Small Artificial Satellites
June 19 2024 - 10:00PM
Business Wire
Toyoda Gosei Co., Ltd. (TOKYO:7282) has invested1 in Synspective
Inc., a startup that develops and operates small SAR satellites2
and provides solutions based on satellite data analysis.
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Small SAR satellite developed and
operated by Synspective (Graphic: Business Wire)
Synspective was established based on development results for
technology to make smaller SAR satellites in the Japanese Cabinet
Office’s innovative research and development program (ImPACT).3 Its
business covers from satellite development to operation and
proposals for solutions to problems using the obtained
observational data. SAR satellites use radio waves (microwaves) of
the wavelength range that can penetrate clouds, and so ground data
can be obtained even during inclement weather and at night. By
linking a number of these satellites, semi-real time and broad area
observations are achieved. The aim is to help in responding to
disasters and maintaining the earth’s environment.
In the automotive industry that is undergoing great changes
beyond the previous boundaries, Toyoda Gosei aims to achieve
sustainable business growth by exploring new fields unbound by its
existing operations. The space-related business being developed by
Synspective is expected to grow in the coming years. Toyoda Gosei
invested in the company to gather information with a view to
exploring fields where its technology can be used.
1
Investment made in April 2024, through
Toyoda Gosei’s Corporate Venture Capital Dept., an internal
organization dedicated to these investments.
2
Satellites equipped with synthetic
aperture radar (SAR) sensors that observe reflected waves of radio
waves (microwaves) irradiated to the earth’s surface.
3
A program led by the Cabinet Office that
ran from FY2014–2018. The aim was to generate new scientific
technology that, if achieved, would bring major innovations to
industry and social. It was created with the purpose of promoting
high-risk, high-impact, strategic research and development.
Outline of Synspective Inc.
Name
Synspective Inc.
Location
3-10-3 Miyoshi, Koto-ku, Tokyo,
Japan
CEO
Motoyuki Arai
Established
February 2018
Capital
JPY100 million (as of January 12,
2024)
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Toyoda Gosei Co., Ltd. Contact: Public Relations
inquiry@mlist.toyoda-gosei.co.jp