06:45 AM EDT, 08/18/2025 (MT Newswires) -- Firefly Aerospace ( FLY ) has signed a preliminary agreement to explore the feasibility of launching its Alpha rocket from Japan, Space Cotan, a Japanese company operating the spaceport in Hokkaido, said Monday.

The memorandum of understanding concerns a feasibility study for a launch from Hokkaido Spaceport, including technical, licensing, and regulatory requirements, according to an English translation of the announcement posted on its website.

Adam Oaks, Firefly's Vice President of Launch, said the possible launch is intended "to meet the growing demand for the satellite market around the world."

A launch from Japan could make the Texas-based company's second offshore site, following a launch it is currently preparing in Sweden, according to Reuters.

Alpha is a rocket that can put a payload of more than 1,000 kg into low-earth orbit.