Bridgestone Corporation has confirmed its participation in the upcoming 40th Space Symposium, the largest space-focused conference in the United States. The event will take place in Colorado Springs, Colorado, from 7 to 10 April 2025.
Bridgestone will exhibit within Japan's Space Industry booth, organised by the Japan Aerospace Exploration Agency (JAXA). The tyre maker will showcase two concept models of its second-generation lunar rover tyre, part of its ongoing efforts to support space mobility through advanced tyre technology.
The new concept models have been developed to be lighter than previous versions, making them suitable for use on small and medium-sized lunar rovers. Bridgestone began its lunar tyre development project in 2019 and continues to refine its designs to meet the extreme demands of lunar exploration.
According to the company, the exhibit will serve as a platform to expand its network within the space sector and create opportunities for further collaboration. Bridgestone has already made progress in this area, having signed a collaboration agreement in 2024 with Astrobotic Technology, Inc., a US-based company specialising in space exploration.
With more than 90 years of experience in tyre development, Bridgestone is applying the knowledge gained from Earth-based mobility, including motorsport, to the challenges of space travel. The company's goal is to develop tyres that can be tailored to specific customer needs or mission requirements, contributing to safety and performance in lunar exploration.
The lunar rover tyre project also supports Bridgestone's broader Mid Term Business Plan (2024–2026), which includes an emphasis on exploratory business initiatives such as the "AirFree Concept." The technology developed for lunar tyres is expected to eventually influence tyre development on Earth.
In addition to its exhibit, Bridgestone is set to participate in a panel discussion alongside Toyota Motor Corporation, Idemitsu Kosan Co., Ltd., and the event organiser Space Foundation.
Event overview
• Event: 40th Space Symposium
• Dates: Monday, 7 April – Thursday, 10 April 2025
• Location: Colorado Springs, Colorado, United States
• Booth: Japan’s Space Industry Booth, BAE Systems Exhibit Center – South Hall #111
From breaking news to forward-thinking industry trends, our subscriber section keeps you informed, engaged, and ahead of the competition.
