ispace, a global lunar exploration company, has partnered with King Abdulaziz City for Science and Technology (KACST) to expand cooperation in the development of advanced lunar exploration technologies and strengthen Saudi Arabia’s capabilities in the space sector.
The agreement, announced on the sidelines of the Saudi-Japanese Ministerial Forum under the ‘Invest in Saudi Arabia’ initiative, reflects a shared commitment to accelerating innovation in lunar science and technology while supporting the Kingdom’s long-term ambitions under Saudi Vision 2030.
Focus on advanced lunar technologies
The partnership will center on the design, manufacturing, testing, and operation of next-generation lunar exploration systems, including rover technologies.
It will also explore the feasibility of transporting Saudi-developed payloads to the Moon, expanding the Kingdom’s role in deep space missions.
The collaboration will include initiatives aimed at building national expertise, fostering research and innovation, and cultivating a skilled workforce in the space domain.
These efforts are expected to contribute to the growth of a robust domestic space ecosystem, enabling Saudi Arabia to participate more actively in global lunar exploration programs.
Dr. Maryam Noah, KACST Vice President, Future Economies Sector, noted that, “This strategic partnership reflects KACST’s commitment to strengthening the Kingdom’s leadership in the fields of space and next-generation lunar exploration. Through our collaboration with ispace, we aim to develop advanced technologies and build national knowledge, skills, and capabilities that will contribute to shaping the future of Saudi Arabia in the space sector.”
Takeshi Hakamada, ispace CEO & Founder, stated that “We are honored to partner with KACST to advance Saudi Arabian lunar technology, missions, and capability. By combining KACST’s leadership and expertise in space science, space technology development, and operations with ispace’s lunar technology and mission experience, we see great potential in what can be achieved in the kingdom. The focus across lunar rover systems, lunar science payload transportation, and operation on the Moon is just a start.”
