Zenno Astronautics, a New Zealand-based company, has secured its first investment in Australasia from Global Brain, a leading Japanese venture capital firm.

Global Brain's CEO, Yasuhiko Yurimoto, expressed enthusiasm for supporting Zenno's advancements in superconducting technology, which are set to enhance the space industry.

With over $2 billion USD under management, Global Brain has partnered with major Japanese companies, ANA Holdings and Mitsubishi Electric, to bolster Zenno's innovative technology.

Co-founder and CEO Max Arshavsky highlighted Zenno's mission to develop technologies that support human life in space without relying on Earth's resources, such as fuel and supply missions.

Zenno specializes in superconducting technologies for fuel-free satellite positioning, with their Z01 product designed for high-precision satellite management.

The increasing demand for satellites to optimize their orbits positions Zenno's superconducting electromagnet technology as a scalable electric solution.

The Z01 product is engineered to meet the rigorous positioning requirements for satellites weighing 50kg and larger, facilitating efficient orbital repositioning for commercial applications.

This investment signifies a collaborative effort between New Zealand and Japan in the space sector, leveraging their strengths in superconducting technology.

The partnership with Global Brain, along with the expertise of Hidetaka Aoki, a leader in the space industry, will enhance Zenno's technology delivery to global customers, particularly in Japan.

The collaboration with ANA Holdings and Mitsubishi Electric is expected to strengthen Zenno's presence in the Japanese market and enhance ties between the aerospace sectors of New Zealand and Japan.

The funding round was led by New Zealand's Global From Day One (GD1), with significant contributions from Shasta Ventures and other existing investors.