The collaboration between D-Orbit and ArkEdge Space aims to cement D-Orbit as the logistics backbone for Japan’s small-satellite sector while broadening its APAC footprint by pairing ArkEdge’s satellite design and production capabilities with D-Orbit’s in-orbit logistics leadership.

This deal ensures dependable, recurring access to orbit for ArkEdge’s constellation programs and marks a milestone in D-Orbit’s Asia-Pacific expansion, with a focus on Japan.

The signing positions D-Orbit as a go-to logistics infrastructure player for small satellites in Japan and across the APAC region as part of a broader growth push.

ION can deploy satellites individually into distinct orbital slots, enabling faster, lower-cost deployments to support ArkEdge Space’s expanding sun-synchronous constellation.

ArkEdge Space, founded in 2018, focuses on microsatellite constellations, covering planning, design, mass production, and operations across applications such as maritime communications, Earth observation, and navigation.

ArkEdge Space offers end-to-end microsatellite solutions including Earth observation, maritime communications, optical and other link technologies, plus LEO positioning and lunar/deep-space activities, seeking reliable access to orbit for growing programs.

D-Orbit’s ION system has completed 23 missions, deployed 144 satellites, and hosted 83 payloads, with a recent launch around early July.

D-Orbit announced a launch services contract with ArkEdge Space to integrate ArkEdge satellites onto the ION Satellite Carrier for missions slated in 2027 and 2028 to sun-synchronous orbit.

The launch-services agreement covers a series of ArkEdge satellites aboard ION, with missions planned for 2027 and 2028 to sun-synchronous orbit.

The contract reflects an industry shift to designing constellations with precise orbital slots, treating launch and deployment as active mission components rather than mere costs.

Marubeni Corporation supported and facilitated the contract as D-Orbit’s regional commercial agent and major investor, underscoring Japan’s strategic role in D-Orbit’s APAC growth.

Matteo Andreas Lorenzoni, head of D-Orbit’s Orbital Access unit, stressed that Japan is strategically vital and that Japanese space firms’ confidence, aided by Marubeni’s support, helps unlock regional opportunities.