Core Insights - Sceye, a leading aerospace company specializing in High Altitude Platform Systems (HAPS), has secured a $15 million investment from SoftBank, raising its valuation to $580 million [1][2] - The company designs large, helium-filled balloons that float in the stratosphere to monitor climate data and provide connectivity to hard-to-reach areas [1][2] Investment and Valuation - The recent funding round has increased Sceye's valuation to $580 million, with other investors including Mawarid Holding Company from Saudi Arabia [1] - The investment from SoftBank is expected to establish a strategic partnership, leveraging SoftBank's expertise in telecommunications [1] Technology and Operations - Sceye has manufactured over 20 airships in a 41,600 square foot facility in New Mexico, with each airship measuring 214 feet in length [1] - The airships are designed to hover for extended periods, collecting real-time data on wildfires, floods, and greenhouse gases, while also providing wireless services during large-scale disasters [1][2] Future Plans - With the new funding and partnership with SoftBank, Sceye plans to launch a stratospheric platform to Japan next year to provide broadband services for several weeks [2] - This demonstration is seen as a crucial step before the company moves towards commercial sales of its services [2] Strategic Importance - SoftBank's president, Masayoshi Son, highlighted the significance of HAPS technology in expanding network coverage to areas that are difficult to reach, especially during large-scale disasters [2] - Sceye has previously collaborated with NASA and the US Geological Survey to provide climate and environmental imaging services [2]