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Astroscale, a Japanese company specializing in removing orbital debris, has partnered with two Bengaluru-based space companies, Digantara and Bellatrix Aerospace, to collaborate on technology and services. This collaboration marks Astroscale's first foray into the Asia-Pacific region outside of Japan and aims to provide orbital services for Indian clients within the next one to two years.

SoftBank and the University of Electro-Communications are developing SureTalk, an AI-powered app that translates sign language into text and vice versa, aiming to bridge the communication gap between deaf and hearing individuals. The app is currently being used by local governments and at events for the deaf community, with hopes of expanding its use in public spaces to promote inclusivity.

Former Prime Minister Fumio Kishida, in a veiled criticism of Donald Trump, called for international cooperation and support for Ukraine, emphasizing the importance of multilateralism and the rule of law in the face of global challenges. He also urged Japan to take a more active role in promoting peace, rather than leaving it solely to Europe.

Asian markets tumbled on Monday, with benchmarks in Tokyo and Taiwan falling over 4%, as investors sought safe havens like gold amid concerns over a potentially toxic mix of worsening inflation and a slowing U.S. economy due to the escalating trade war. The global economic outlook remains uncertain as the Wednesday deadline for additional tariffs approaches.

Japan's space agency, JAXA, plans to increase the launch frequency of its H3 rocket to at least seven times a year, aiming for monthly launches by 2027. This ambitious goal requires upgrades at the Tanegashima Space Center, including additional liquid oxygen storage tanks and assembly buildings, to enable more frequent and efficient launches.