15th April, 2025 — ASTRO GATE Inc. (Head Office: Tokyo) and Epyphite Pte. Ltd. (Head Office: Singapore) have signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) to establish a collaborative framework aimed at realizing the development of a commercial spaceport in the Maldives.
This MoU seeks to promote the establishment of new space-related infrastructure and the advancement of the space industry in the equatorial region. By leveraging their respective expertise and networks, the two companies will jointly explore the potential for spaceport development in the Maldives.
Moving forward, discussions and evaluations will focus primarily on the following areas:
- Identification and technical/geographical evaluation of potential spaceport sites in the Maldives
- Engagement and coordination with relevant ministries and regulatory authorities
- Feasibility studies from technical, economic, and environmental perspectives
- Establishment of a foundation for collaboration with launch service providers and satellite operators
Comment from Mr. Daisuke Ode, President of ASTRO GATE Inc.:
“We are truly honored to embark on this spaceport initiative in the Maldives through our partnership with Epyphite. In addition to its advantageous location near the equator—offering flexibility in launch azimuths and enhanced safety—the Maldives is globally renowned as a premier tourist destination. This unique combination presents exciting opportunities to integrate space and tourism, creating new value and experiences. Through this project, we aim to expand the country’s appeal into the space domain and contribute to both sustainable regional development and the formation of a global spaceport infrastructure network.”
Comment from Mr. Yuki Harada, CEO of ASTRO GATE Inc.:
“Developing new spaceport infrastructure in equatorial regions is essential to advancing the global space economy. Through our collaboration with Epyphite, we aim to explore the Maldives’ potential as part of this broader vision. Our focus is on creating commercially sustainable models that align with local development priorities, while contributing to the expansion of launch capabilities worldwide. We look forward to working together to build infrastructure that supports both regional growth and international access to space.”
Comment from Mr. Juan Ramirez, CEO of Epyphite Pte. Ltd.:
“We are thrilled to partner with ASTRO GATE to unlock the Maldives’ potential as a strategic equatorial launch hub. By combining ASTRO GATE’s proven launch-services expertise with Epyphite’s systems-engineering and regional integration capabilities, we will develop a spaceport model that prioritizes safety, environmental stewardship, and sustainable economic growth for the Maldivian people. This agreement is a decisive first step toward giving Southeast Asia – and the wider global community – direct access to the stars.”
This MoU represents a basic agreement toward a future formal partnership and does not constitute a legally binding contract. The parties will continue discussions and studies with the aim of advancing toward the realization of a viable project.
