Epson Invests in General-Purpose Space Robots

Epson Invests in General-Purpose Space Robots Epson and its subsidiary Epson X Investment Corporation have made an additional investment in GITAI Japan Inc., a startup developing general-purpose space robots. Through this investment, versatile space robots will be developed for missions on internal and external space stations, Earth's orbit, the Moon and Mars. Global technology leader Epson has made an additional investment in GITAI Japan Inc., which develops general-purpose space robots. The investment will enable the development of versatile space robots for missions on internal and external space stations, Earth's orbit, the Moon and Mars. Seiko Epson Corporation (Epson) and its subsidiary Epson X Investment Corporation first invested in GITAI Japan Inc., a startup developing general-purpose space robots, in 2021. The new investment was made through EP-GB Investment Limited Partnership.

Producing robots for dangerous work

GITAI, a Japan-based startup, aims to provide safe and economical labor in space. As space development accelerates—including lunar resource development, Mars exploration and commercialization of the International Space Station (ISS)—a rapid increase is expected in various space operations such as construction of new space stations and bases on the Moon and Mars. While these operations carry potential dangers, they are currently performed by astronauts and require costly training.

Space exploration will become safer

GITAI is developing general-purpose robots that will significantly reduce the burden and risk to astronauts. The company also plans to dramatically lower the overall costs associated with space labor transport and training. In this way, GITAI aims to make space exploration and development both safe and economical. Since 2021, GITAI has built a strong track record by developing lunar work robots and spacewalk robots, and successfully conducting experiments with demonstration models on the ISS.

Making second investment

Epson, as stated in its 'Epson 25 Renewed' corporate vision, is building flexible, high-efficiency production systems that reduce environmental impact. GITAI's space robot technology demonstrates that Epson is a competitive institution with potential applications in its robotics business. Taking into account the significant technological advances achieved, Epson decided to make an additional investment in GITAI following its initial investment in 2021. In the future, Epson will continue to create diverse partnerships and synergies based on proprietary technologies, products and services, contributing to the development of a sustainable society.