AstroX Announces Plan to Reach Space via Rockoon Method by FY2026, Unveils FOX2 Rocket and Sponsorship Program

AstroX's Challenge for Next-Generation Space Transport

On May 26, 2026, AstroX, a company developing satellite orbital launch rockets using air-launch technology (Headquarters: Minamisoma City, Fukushima Prefecture; CEO: Shobu Oda), held a press conference at its Tokyo office to announce its 'Suborbital Mission' slated for fiscal year 2026, the suborbital rocket 'FOX2', and the sponsorship program 'AstroX Rockoon Challenge'.

### 1. Overview of the Suborbital Mission

The mission involves a hybrid rocket launch experiment using the 'Rockoon' method, which transports the rocket to the stratosphere via balloon before ignition. The goal is to reach space at an altitude of over 100km, aiming for the world's first achievement by a private company. This technology represents a significant step towards future commercialization.

### 2. Technological Evolution of the FOX2 Rocket

The FOX2 rocket is the successor to FOX1, which was tested in November 2024. By switching from ground launch to stratospheric launch, air resistance is dramatically reduced. The propulsion system adopts low-melting-point thermoplastic resin (LT), improving combustion speed. Furthermore, by adopting oxidizer pressure control technology and spin stabilization, it achieves high reach accuracy.

### 3. Experimental Milestones

Throughout fiscal year 2026, the company will conduct phased tethered and release experiments with large balloons. In Q3, the actual suborbital rocket Unit 1 will be launched to demonstrate reach into space.

### 4. Expansion of Partnerships

The sponsorship program 'AstroX Rockoon Challenge' has been initiated, with Nippon CMK Co., Ltd. participating as the first platinum sponsor. Additionally, the Infrasound Laboratory of the Kochi University of Technology has been confirmed as the first payload customer.

Since its founding, AstroX has achieved continuous growth, starting with 50 million yen in seed funding, succeeding in 10km-class launch experiments, engaging in co-creation with JAXA, and raising a total of 2.32 billion yen in its Series A round. The company will continue to lead Japan's space development through its Rockoon technology.