Japanese spacecraft startup iSpace (9348.T) has scheduled its first NASA moon landing for 2030, as the company will end all operations after two failed moon missions. The Tokyo-based company cited strategic restructuring and a focus on lunar orbiters as the reasons behind the shift.
The company, led by its Chief Financial Officer, Jumpei Nozaki, has announced plans to consolidate lunar lander development in both Japan and the US. The company planned to launch its commercial lunar payload services in partnership with NASA in 2027. The mission has now been postponed by three years.
“We are seeking an expanded role in NASA’s Artemis program as the only private company outside the U.S. with moon landing technology,” Nozaki said.
ispace plans to launch five lunar orbiters before the year 2030. The orbiters will provide telecommunications and navigation and surface observation services to assist in lunar development and infrastructure development.
The changes could ultimately cost several million dollars, which could necessitate further capital raising. ispace is expected to cut a handful of employees from its global workforce, which last year had about 300 employees in Japan, the US and Luxembourg.
Since listing on the Tokyo stock exchange in 2023, ispace has faced challenges, including two failed moon landings, losses and a decline in share prices. iSpace’s third mission is planned for 2028 under the Japanese government’s commercial space program, using the “Ultra” lunar lander, which can carry a payload of 200 kg (441 lbs).
Only two private American companies, Intuitive Machines and Firefly Aerospace, have successfully landed on the moon. The iSpace delays underscore the challenges facing international private companies amid accelerated U.S. moon programs and increasing competition from China.
