Japan's space startup Space Entry Inc. announced on April 7th that "Everyone's Haro"—yes, that iconic Haro from Mobile Suit Gundam—an autonomous space robot designed by mechanical designer Kunio Okawara, is set to launch to the International Space Station (ISS). It will undertake a long-term mission dubbed "HELLO, HARO" in the "Kibo" Japanese Experiment Module.
And here's the kicker: they're inviting everyone to join the crowdfunding campaign, truly making it "Everyone's Haro" in every sense of the word! Participants can get involved through various tiers, from watching experiments to even snagging a chance to witness a rocket launch live.
This "Haro" robot was personally designed by mechanical design maestro Kunio Okawara. It takes the original Haro from the series as its base, then supercharges it with various real-world technological functions. Companies like Bandai Namco Filmworks are also collaborating on this massive project, which brilliantly fuses beloved IP with cutting-edge space tech.
So, why "Haro"? The official word is that many grew up watching Gundam, harboring dreams of space, and Haro perfectly symbolizes those aspirations. By using "Everyone's Haro" as the gateway, the hope is that whether you're a Gundam veteran or a complete newbie, this adorable and intuitive character will spark your interest in space development and encourage you to take that first step toward participation.
This mission will send "Everyone's Haro" to the ISS for a three-phase testing process:
1. Ground Simulation Test (simulating the space environment)
2. Microgravity Test (confirming normal operation in zero-G)
3. Communication Function Test (simulating interaction with astronauts or users)
The data collected will be crucial for advancing the development of future space robots and related industries.
To navigate the zero-gravity environment, "Everyone's Haro" retains its classic spherical look while packing some serious tech: propulsion propellers (allowing 360-degree movement), various sensors, and AI conversation capabilities. The designers and engineering team have fine-tuned it to meet the rigorous demands of space operation.
Through crowdfunding, you can snag "mission participation rights" and get hands-on with the robot's development and assembly, pre-launch testing, attending the launch event live, and even experiencing its subsequent operations in space! The crowdfunding campaign kicks off on April 14, 2026.
This project's core appeal is "everyone can participate in space missions." The entire process—from development and testing to launch and actual space operations—will be open for public involvement. Simply put, it's transforming the era of "just watching others go to space" into a time where "you can be part of a space project yourself," making the cosmos no longer a distant dream but a realm where everyone gets a chance to join the action!
If you're keen to get involved, head over to the crowdfunding page now and mark your calendars for April 14th when official participation opens!
via： 「大家的哈囉」Campfire募資頁面