Letara

Letara is a Hokkaido, Japan-based space propulsion startup founded by experts from Hokkaido University's rocket research group. The company is developing next-generation hybrid rocket propulsion systems for spacecraft that use plastic (polyethylene or similar polymers) as the solid fuel, combined with liquid or gaseous oxidizers.

Letara's approach aims to overcome the key limitations of both liquid and solid rocket propulsion: hybrid propulsion systems are inherently safer than solid rockets (no pre-mixed propellants), more cost-effective than fully liquid systems, and capable of higher performance than traditional solid systems. The company targets the growing small satellite and cubesat propulsion market where compact, safe, reliable propulsion is in high demand.

Based in Hokkaido, Japan's northernmost main island and home to a growing commercial space cluster, Letara is part of the vibrant Japanese NewSpace ecosystem that has produced companies like Interstellar Technologies and Space BD. The company leverages deep academic expertise in hybrid propulsion research to commercialize technology that could significantly advance spacecraft maneuvering capabilities.