Seiko Epson Corporation and its subsidiary Epson X Investment Corporation recently made an additional investment in GITAI Japan Inc., a start-up company that develops general-purpose space robots. The investment was made through their EP-GB Investment Limited Partnership.
Originating in Japan, GITAI is a start-up that envisions providing safe and affordable labor in space. Their goal is to develop and sell versatile space robots that will serve as a workforce for tasks both inside and outside space stations, in Earth’s orbit, as well as on the Moon and Mars. Additionally, they aim to provide services in space.
According to Mukesh Bector, the Regional Head for East and West Africa at Epson, Epson, and GITAI have established a strong partnership to lead the development of space robotics, combining their capabilities at the forefront of technological progress.
With a mutual goal of revolutionizing space exploration and labor, Epson and GITAI are harnessing their expertise and resources to produce state-of-the-art space robots.
These advanced robots are specifically engineered to undertake a wide array of tasks within and beyond space stations, fundamentally transforming operational practices in the realm of space.
With the acceleration of space development, including lunar resource development, Mars exploration, and the commercialization of the International Space Station [ISS], a rapid increase in various types of work within space is anticipated, such as the construction of new space stations, lunar bases, and Mars bases. This work is potentially dangerous and is currently being performed by astronauts, who must be trained and transported at tremendous expense.
“The field of robotics holds immense potential to reshape and redefine our daily lives and work dynamics. Epson acknowledges the significance of incorporating robotics across various industries including manufacturing, agriculture, healthcare, and logistics. With its wealth of experience and advanced robotics solutions, Epson strives to optimize productivity, efficiency, and safety within these sectors. By harnessing the transformative power of robotics, we aim to revolutionize the way we live and work, fostering a future of enhanced possibilities and outcomes,” continued Mukesh
GITAI is developing general-purpose robots that can significantly reduce the risk and burden on astronauts while also dramatically reducing the overall cost of transportation and training associated with space labor. By doing so, GITAI aims to make space exploration and development both safe and affordable. Since 2021, they have been steadily building a strong track record by developing lunar work robots and extravehicular robots, as well as by successfully completing onboard experiments using demonstration models on the ISS.
As outlined in the Epson 25 Renewed corporate vision, Epson aims to drive manufacturing innovation by co-creating flexible, high-throughput production systems that reduce environmental impacts. GITAI’s space robot technology has potential applications in Epson’s robotics business and has proven to be competitive in the expanding space business market.
The company continues to forge growth with its strong technical and organization capabilities. Recognizing its impressive track record and the significant technological advancements it has achieved, Epson decided to follow up its initial investment in 2021 with this additional investment.
Going forward, Epson will help to achieve a sustainable society by creating a variety of partnerships and synergies based on its proprietary technologies, products, and services.
