Enhancing satellite propulsion technology to help achieve the sustainable utilization of outer space
Mitsubishi Electric Corporation (TOKYO: 6503) announced today that its ME Innovation Fund has invested in Japan-based Pale Blue Inc., a startup engaged in the development, manufacturing, and sales of propulsion systems for small satellites that use water as a propellant. This is the 13th investment the fund has made to date.
In recent years, the number of satellite launches has increased significantly worldwide, and the number of businesses utilizing satellite constellations has rapidly expanded. Propulsion systems, which serve as the driving force for satellite operation and orbital transfer, are critical components of satellite missions. This has led to growing demand for propulsion technologies that offer superior safety, cost efficiency, and lower environmental impact.
Founded in 2020 as a deep-tech startup originating from the University of Tokyo, Pale Blue is developing proprietary water-based propulsion systems that leverage two core technologies: low-pressure, ambient-temperature water vaporization and the generation of low-power plasma with oxidation resistance, aiming to thereby realize a safe and sustainable space infrastructure. Compared to conventional propellants, water is significantly safer, more cost-effective, widely available, and environmentally friendly. Pale Blue has already completed multiple in-orbit demonstrations using small satellites, confirming the technical credibility and reliability of its solution. Pale Blue is also progressing efforts to establish its own production capabilities, which include the establishment of a production engineering development site.
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