MetroWeather closes ¥1.5bn Series B first round for detection lidar
The Kyoto University spinout is adapting its three-dimensional wind-measurement technology to detect drones and other objects around defense and critical-infrastructure sites.
Adapting wind-sensing lidar to detect objects
MetroWeather’s Doppler lidar measures wind in three dimensions by analyzing frequency shifts in reflected laser light. The company is applying its remote-sensing and signal-processing technology to an object-detection system intended to identify drones that conventional radar may miss.
The Series B first close brings the round to ¥1.5 billion; the company says a second close is planned, with a ¥2.5 billion target for the full round. Its object-detection lidar is moving toward practical use in defense and protection of critical infrastructure.
Use of funds
Accelerate commercialization of object-detection lidar for defense and critical infrastructure protection