Innovative Space Carrier Raises ¥3.2 Billion for Reusable Rocket Development
Innovative Space Carrier (ISC), a company focused on developing reusable rocket technology, has successfully raised ¥3.2 billion in its latest funding round. The round, which remains undisclosed in terms of specific series, brings together a number of prominent investors including Incubate Fund, B Dash Ventures, Angel Bridge, XTech Ventures, For Startups Capital, Aozora Corporate Investment, Animal Spirits, Midtown Frontier Fund, Aichi Sangyo, JAL Engineering, NES, and Hokuyo Bank.
ISC is working on a range of innovative projects aimed at making space more accessible. These include the development of the "ASCA" reusable rocket, a spaceport for easier access to space, high-speed point-to-point (P2P) transport capable of moving across the globe in 60 minutes, and affordable space tourism options.
Investors and Funding Details
While no single lead investor was identified in this funding round, the participation of a diverse group of investors highlights the broad interest in ISC's vision and technology. Approximately 70% of the investors are new participants, and around 40% of the funds come from business corporations and corporate venture capitals (CVCs).
Development Goals and Projects
ISC is currently advancing the development of its reusable satellite launch rocket, "ASCA 1," and is conducting conceptual studies for a manned space transportation system, "ASCA 2." The ultimate goal for ISC is to achieve high-frequency space transportation using its fully reusable single-stage-to-orbit (SSTO) spacecraft, "ASCA 3," by the 2040s. This spacecraft is designed to make over 1,000 trips to space, carrying approximately 50 passengers and cargo to various locations on Earth or orbital bases, with a high-frequency turnaround of twice a day.
The company has also established the "ASCA hopper" project, which aims to develop and demonstrate a 1-ton class engine and rocket body within just one year. Recently, ISC announced the successful ignition test of a rocket engine equipped with Ebara Corporation’s electric turbo pump, conducted from January 19 to 30, 2026.
Use of Funds
The funds raised will be directed towards furthering the development of ISC's proprietary technologies and projects. This includes enhancing their agile development platform "P4SD" for planning, design, manufacturing, and testing processes. Additionally, ISC has passed the stage gate review of the SBIR Phase 3 project and has been selected for a subsidy of up to ¥5 billion.
ISC's selection for the Space Strategy Fund Project "Foundation Technology for Ensuring Safety in Manned Space Transportation Systems" further underscores its strategic significance in the aerospace sector.
Future Prospects
With the latest funding, ISC is well-positioned to continue its ambitious projects and contribute significantly to the future of space travel and transportation. The company's efforts are aligned with a growing global interest in reusable space technology and the broader goal of making space more accessible to a wider audience.