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Interstellar Technologies has raised ¥20.1 billion in a Series F funding round, the largest for a private space startup in Japan. The round involved investments from SBI Group, Nomura Real Estate, B Dash Ventures, SMBC Edge, and existing shareholders, increasing total funding to ¥44.6 billion.

The company's 'ZERO' rocket, designed for small satellite launches, can carry up to 1,000 kg into low Earth orbit and will be the first private rocket to use liquefied biomethane as fuel. The Ministry of Education, Culture, Sports, Science and Technology's 'Small Business Innovation Research (SBIR Phase 3)' program selected the development of ZERO.

The first unit has secured seven satellite customers and signed contracts with eight entities. Funds will be directed towards ZERO's development, manufacturing enhancements, and satellite R&D.