# Japan Earth Observer > A newsletter on the space, Earth observation, and geospatial industry in Japan. Public Ghost content for AI and LLM tooling. This file includes a bounded export of public pages first, then recent public posts. Append `.md` to any post or page URL to get the content in Markdown (for example, `/example-post.md`). ## Pages ### About Japan Earth Observer URL: https://www.japanearthobserver.com/about/ Last updated: 2026-02-12T01:43:43.000Z Welcome to Japan Earth Observer (JEO), a free newsletter with either a news roundup or an in-depth article about the space, Earth observation, and geospatial technology industries in Japan. ### Why? I have been working in the geospatial technology world for 30 years. I began my technology career doing geospatial data analysis and software development for municipal government in Philadelphia. After a four-year tour of duty in local government, I struck out on my own and started Azavea, a geospatial software engineering company that I would lead and grow over the next 22 years. But before my geospatial career, I lived and worked in Japan. I had studied Japanese language, history, and culture at the University of Michigan and after I finished my degree, I worked in local government in a small town in Shiga Prefecture. It was an incredible first professional experience, enabling me to work on my Japanese language skills as well as an opportunity to learn about the world of work and to travel broadly in Japan and the rest of Asia. I left Japan in 1994 to attend graduate school in Philadelphia, where I studied Landscape Architecture and received an introduction to geospatial technology. After more than two decades as the founder and CEO, I sold Azavea in 2023 to Element 84, and following a brief stint as Chief Strategy Officer with them, I found myself on an unplanned sabbatical. I decided to use some of my newly available time to travel, and at the top of my list was spending some time in Japan again. Apart from a brief vacation in Japan more than a decade ago, I had been away for almost 30 years. Being there again was revelatory for me. I found it unexpectedly nourishing and restorative for reasons I cannot entirely explain, and I returned to the U.S. with a conviction that I wanted to find opportunities to more substantively reconnect my life to Japan. A key challenge, however, is that while I had almost three decades of experience working with geospatial data, software, and Earth observation technology, my geo career has been in North America and in the English language, and I have neither the language nor the context to operate professionally in Japan. My Japanese language skills slowly seeped back into my head while I was visiting in 2024, but I had never acquired the vocabulary and context to be able to have meaningful conversations in Japanese about my geospatial technology work. So alongside my newfound conviction - reconnect with my life in Japan - I returned to Philadelphia with a pile of books and a desire to dive back into learning Japanese. I wrote and spoke on a range of technology and entrepreneurship topics for Azavea and Element 84\. This newsletter will be a bit different. Rather than building and growing a business, I hope it will represent part of my effort to combine two components of my professional life: geospatial technology and Japan. Over my career, I’ve learned that if I really want to understand a topic, it helps me to write about it. The act of trying to explain something to others in written form helps me learn. Further, I have often found that writing helps me think. So that’s what this is, my effort to learn and think through writing. Along the way, I also hope to meet new people, reconnect with long-time colleagues, deepen my understanding on an array of Earth observation topics, and improve my Japanese language skills. For those of you familiar with my past work, I remain both fascinated and motivated by many of the same themes that drove my work at Azavea: cultivating an open knowledge ecosystem (open data, open source, open science, open standards), building institutions, and applying geospatial technology in service of public good, and this newsletter will likely reflect those interests as well. Thank you for joining me on this journey. Robert Cheetham --- ### Welcome to the Japan Earth Observer (JEO) newsletter URL: https://www.japanearthobserver.com/welcome-newsletter/ Last updated: 2026-02-12T01:39:10.000Z _This page is for subscribers only._ ## Posts ### JEO 19 - News Roundup - 2 Sept 2026 URL: https://www.japanearthobserver.com/jeo-19-news-roundup-2-sept-2026/ Last updated: 2026-09-02T14:09:14.000Z *Welcome to Japan Earth Observer (JEO), a monthly newsletter about the space, Earth observation and geospatial industries in Japan.* *Topping this news roundup, we’ve got stories on J-LEO, the planned domestic LEO satellites comms network, sovereign AI, and much more.* *On to the news…* ## News & Announcements ### 📡 Rakuten-led consortium wins J-LEO sovereign satellite network The **Ministry of Internal Affairs and Communications (MIC)** has allocated almost US $1b in subsidies to [build out a $2 billion domestic LEO satellite communications network](https://payloadspace.com/japan-eyes-sovereign-d2d-satellite-network/?ref=japanearthobserver.com) being called J-LEO. The RFP required companies to meet several conditions: - Achieve a nationwide rollout by March 2029; - Complete all network and data control domestically in Japan; - Support video calls on regular smartphones for at least 70% of the day; - Enable free roaming across carriers during disasters. This type of constellation would be along the lines of SpaceX Starlink, Amazon LEO, ASTS SpaceMobile or IRIS² in Europe. Japan doesn't currently have the capacity to build a constellation like this on its own. So there were a few ways to potentially make this happen: - Use a Starlink partner that can meet the requirements - KDDI, SoftBank, and NTT DOCOMO already provide D2D services in partnership with SpaceX’s Starlink - KDDI provides a Starlink Direct product, including existing global coverage through partnership with firms like T-Mobile - Softbank also has a Starlink Direct offering, though it is only just rolled out, so is at least a year behind KDDI - NTT DOCOMO has a Starlink Direct business offering, but not one for consumers - SkyPerfect JSAT's recently signed a deal to be first Amazon LEO reseller a couple of weeks ago, though Amazon LEO has not yet reached critical mass in terms of the number of satellites required to offer global coverage - Rakuten Mobile had recently announced a new joint venture with AST SpaceMobile in June through which it would purchase multiple AST satellites to establish a network. Rakuten also has access to 700 MHz spectrum that matches Rakuten's ground frequency. None of these solutions would have a domestic company building an end-to-end solution, but each would have potentially offered some control over a domestic service. This is not a dissimilar scenario to Japan buying reserved access to the latest Planet Labs Pelican satellites through Sky Perfect JSAT in 2025. In the end, it didn’t matter. The Ministry of Internal Affairs and Communication (MIC) (総務省) officially selected Rast Co Ltd (50/50 Rakuten/AST SpaceMobile JV) for Japan's sovereign LEO direct-to-cell constellation. MIC will distribte the \~¥150B (\~US $926M) subsidy over 3 years as well as allowing use of the 700 Mhz spectrum for direct satellite communications services. It seemed possible that at least one Starlink-affiliated alternative would bid, but the Rakuten/AST SpaceMobile team ended up being the only bidder. Rakuten completed the first Japan D2C video call on a Bluebird satellite in April 2025 and expects to be able to provide commercial service in 2026. Beyond the \~¥150B MIC subsidy, Rakuten and the University of Tokyo secured a separate ¥11 billion yen grant from the JAXA Space Strategy Fund for space-ground network integration R&D. This is a separate funding stream supporting the same J-LEO sovereign D2D constellation build-out. AST Space Mobile, after successfully launching Bluebird 8, 9, and 10, is planning to launch 11, 12, and 13 in early August - this will be the first of the more advanced Block 2 satellites, with larger antenna arrays and higher peak bandwidth. At 2,400 sf, they will be the largest antenna structures in low Earth orbit (LEO). ### 🛰️ Technology and Infrastructure - The **Ministry of Internal Affairs and Communications (MIC)** has allocated almost US $1b in subsidies to [build out a $2 billion domestic LEO satellite communications network](https://payloadspace.com/japan-eyes-sovereign-d2d-satellite-network/?ref=japanearthobserver.com) being called J-LEO. The RFP required companies to meet several conditions: - Achieve a nationwide rollout by March 2029; - Complete all network and data control domestically in Japan; - Support video calls on regular smartphones for at least 70% of the day; - Enable free roaming across carriers during disasters. This type of constellation would be along the lines of SpaceX Starlink, Amazon LEO, ASTS SpaceMobile or IRIS² in Europe. Japan doesn't currently have the capacity to build a constellation like this on its own. So there were a few ways to potentially make this happen: - Use a Starlink partner that can meet the requirements - KDDI, SoftBank, and NTT DOCOMO already provide D2D services in partnership with SpaceX’s Starlink - KDDI provides a Starlink Direct product, including existing global coverage through partnership with firms like T-Mobile - Softbank also has a Starlink Direct offering, though it is only just rolled out, so is at least a year behind KDDI - NTT DOCOMO has a Starlink Direct business offering, but not one for consumers - Rakuten Mobile had recently announced a new joint ventuire with AST SpaceMobile in June through which it would purchase multiple AST satellites to establish a network. Rakuten also has access to 700 MHz spectrum that matches Rakuten's ground frequency. It expects to be able to support limited service by the end of 2026 and full service in 2027 - SkyPerfect JSAT's recently signed a deal to be first Amazon LEO reseller a couple of weeks ago, though Amazon LEO has not yet reached critical mass in terms of the number of satellites required to offer global coverage None of these solutions would have a domestic company building an end-to-end solution, but each would offer some control over a domestic service. This is not a dissimilar scenario to Japan buying reserved access to the latest Planet Labs Pelican satellites through Sky Perfect JSAT in 2025. - **Mitsubishi Heavy Industries (MHI)** and **Preferred Networks (PFN)** have [formed a sovereign AI alliance for defense and infrastructure](https://www.mhi.com/news/260602.html?ref=japanearthobserver.com) \[MHI\]. The new partnership will co-develop Japanese-built sovereign AI models for automating machinery, critical infrastructure, and national security systems. The partnership targets high-reliability systems resilient to foreign supply chain vulnerabilities, with an equity investment tie-up planned by the end of 2026. - *Why does this matter?* While Japan is not home to any of the frontier AI companies, it has several leaders in AI model development for specific applications. Preferred Networks develops its own AI models, and **Sakana AI** specializes in compositing other frontier models and applying them for business applications. Japan also has several leaders in physical AI for robotics and autonomous vehicles. Given the [recent banning of the Anthropic Fable model’s use by non-US citizens](https://www.anthropic.com/news/fable-mythos-access?ref=japanearthobserver.com) and the delayed availability of Mythos and OpenAI’s Sol to non-US entities, efforts like this MHI/PFN tie-up are both understandable and inevitable. - **Sakana AI** announced the [establishment of its *Recursive Self-Improvement (RSI) Lab*](https://sakana.ai/rsi-lab/?ref=japanearthobserver.com), a dedicated internal research group based at its Tokyo headquarters, tasked with redesigning the AI development process using AI itself. The RSI Lab is built on two years of foundational research in Agent-Native Models and Recursive Self-Improvement. The RSI Lab is actively recruiting frontier research scientists and core engineers. - *Why does this matter?* Japan’s AI efforts do not have access to the same capital or compute resources as the frontier research labs in the U.S. and China. A key strategic thesis of Sakana’s effort is that compute-efficient self-improvement (rather than the hyperscale brute force used by other frontier research labs) is both a structural necessity given Japan's compute position and the approach most likely to generalize globally. - **SKY Perfect JSAT** and Kobe-based startup **Banyans** jointly announced [development of *KAZAMI™ (かざみ)*, a new cloud movement prediction system](https://spacemedia.jp/news/19052?ref=japanearthobserver.com) \[SPACE Media\] that uses imagery from Japan's geostationary *Himawari* weather satellites. The system analyzes Himawari's 10-minute interval observation images to predict cloud movement from 10 minutes to several hours ahead. In validation tests for specific locations in Japan, KAZAMI achieved over 90% forecast accuracy at the 10-minute horizon and over 80% accuracy at 180 minutes. - *Why does this matter?* While this may sound like weather forecasting technology, that is not the primary use. Rather, it is aimed at helping satellites-based optical communications (laser-based data links to the ground) systems to proactively switch to alternative ground stations when cloud cover is approaching. Most ground station links are currently radio or microwave, but these channels are running out of capacity and there is an ongoing shift toward using higher bandwidth lasers for downlinks. But clouds degrade or interrupt laser communications systems, so a system that can reliably predict cloud cover for a given location can help optimize these next-generation systems. There may also be utility for quantum key distribution (QKD) systems. ![01-skyperfect-jsat-kazami.jpg](https://storage.ghost.io/c/54/e9/54e9159b-1345-41dd-b7dd-180de33edc5b/content/images/2026/09/01-skyperfect-jsat-kazami.jpg) KAZAMI cloud movement foresting system. Source: Sky Perfect JSAT - **MIERUNE** has [launched commercial sales of *MIERUNE Map Tile*](https://www.mierune.co.jp/news/4ab%5Fje8d6w?ref=japanearthobserver.com), a vector tile map product designed for closed-network and offline environments. - *Why does this matter?* While we are all accustomed to having near ubiquitous access to commercial mapping systems such as Google Maps and Apple Maps, there are an array of scenarios in public infrastructure, defense, finance, disaster response, and government sectors where these mapping tools cannot be used due to security and compliance requirements or because a stable internet connection is unavailable . MIERUNE’s new solution is a self-hostable package that relies on the open PMTiles format, open source MapLibre,, Japanese-language font PBFs, and full documentation for deployment on-premises (behind a firewall) or on major cloud platforms (AWS, GCP, Azure). The product also offers monthly data updates via MIERUNE's data pipeline. ![02-mierune-tiles.png](https://storage.ghost.io/c/54/e9/54e9159b-1345-41dd-b7dd-180de33edc5b/content/images/2026/09/02-mierune-tiles.png) Examples of MIERUNE’s new Map Tile product. Source: MIERUNE - **Nippon Television (NTV)** and interactive technology company **Bascule** [announced the launch of "TerraCaster" (テラキャスター)](https://spacemedia.jp/news/1902?ref=japanearthobserver.com), a real-time Earth observation video platform leveraging imagery from Japan's geostationary *Himawari* weather satellite. The platform uses interpolation to produce seamless, smooth video from Himawari's 10-minute interval observation images, enabling continuous Earth visualization with images up to at least one hour in the past. The service was deployed across more than 60 digital signage displays in major Japanese cities, including an 11K ultra-high-definition display at Toranomon Hills Station Vision in Minato Ward, Tokyo, to coincide with World Environment Day on June 5, 2026\. You can check out an example at [https://terracaster.space/](https://terracaster.space/?ref=japanearthobserver.com). ![03-ntv-terracaster-example.jpg](https://storage.ghost.io/c/54/e9/54e9159b-1345-41dd-b7dd-180de33edc5b/content/images/2026/09/03-ntv-terracaster-example.jpg) TerraCaster in a building lobby. Source: Japan Television (NTV) - **Astroscale** [rolled out the *Atmospheric Impact of Reentered Spacecraft (AIRS)* initiative](https://www.astroscale.com/ja/news/astroscale-leads-new-industry-initiative-on-spacecraft-reentry-and-atmospheric-impact?ref=japanearthobserver.com) alongside **Planet Labs** and the **University of Southampton**. The collaboration will develop protocols for sharing proprietary spacecraft material composition and mass breakdown data with academic researchers, enabling better modeling of atmospheric emissions caused by spacecraft ablation during reentry. This work aims to address growing scientific uncertainty around the environmental effects of accelerating LEO launch cadence. The AIRS initiative will enable space operators and manufacturers to share different levels of information including: 1) non-proprietary spacecraft design information with academic researchers to improve the accuracy of atmospheric modeling while protecting commercially sensitive data; 2) information such as material composition and approximate mass breakdowns can be shared under confidential bilateral agreements; 3) more detailed data, including component layouts or expected reentry profiles, may be shared at the participant’s discretion, helping to build a more accurate and comprehensive picture of reentry impacts. - *Why does this matter?* As activity in low Earth orbit accelerates, the number of satellites reentering Earth’s atmosphere is expected to rise significantly in the coming years. Starlink on its own is expected to deorbit 1,000+ satellites per year. While space sustainability efforts have historically focused on in-orbit operations and debris removal, the atmospheric effects of spacecraft reentry remain an underexplored area of research. During reentry, spacecraft are exposed to extreme heating and interaction with atmospheric gases, leading to melting, fragmentation and vaporization of materials. These processes release chemical compounds at various layers of the upper atmosphere, making it difficult to directly measure or model. Researchers have been attempting to simulate the effects of re-entry, but current simulations rely on simplified spacecraft assumptions due to limited availability of actual manufacturing data. Without access to real-world industry data, the results of the modeling will have limited relevance. We've been down this road before, when we discovered that the CFCs used in air conditioning were damaging the ozone layer that protected life on Earth. It may turn out that we need to consider alternative materials for manufacturing our satellites. ![04-astroscale-airs-initiative.webp](https://storage.ghost.io/c/54/e9/54e9159b-1345-41dd-b7dd-180de33edc5b/content/images/2026/09/04-astroscale-airs-initiative.webp) Artist rendering of a satellite reentry. Source: Astroscale. - **AstroX** has [successfully completed a 550 kg tethered balloon integrated ground systems test](https://astrox.jp/20260610%5F550kgballloon/?ref=japanearthobserver.com) \[AstroX\] at its Minamisoma, Fukushima facility. The trial was the first to simultaneously operate three key Rockoon launch subsystems: a self-propelled tilt-up mechanism (跳ね上げ装置), a deferred-payout winch (繰り延べウインチ), and a containerized balloon release platform (コンテナ式放球架台). A 23.3-meter balloon was inflated with helium, elevated by the tilt-up device, and a dummy rocket was successfully separated from the release platform. The test builds on prior milestones: a crane-lifted dummy rocket separation test in December 2025 and a standalone tilt-up device operation test at the factory in March 2026\. The next milestone is a free-flight test using a 40 kg balloon, with the company targeting first Rockoon-mode space-altitude (above 100 km) achievement within fiscal year 2026. - **Space Data** has [launched a new monthly subscription advisory service](https://spacemedia.jp/news/19183?ref=japanearthobserver.com) \[SPACE Media\] under its *NEXA* next-generation resilience platform, targeting companies seeking entry into defense, public sector, and international development markets. The new service combines individual consultations, research analysis, and monthly study sessions. - Japan's **House of Representatives** [passed an amendment to the Space Activities Act](https://spacemedia.jp/news/19235?ref=japanearthobserver.com) \[SPACE Media \]to extend licensing and safety management requirements to rockets that do not carrying satellites, such as reusable launch vehicles and orbital transfer vehicles (OTVs). This will bring these newer vehicles under the existing third-party liability compensation framework. This plugs a regulatory gap that had left emerging space transportation models with some legal ambiguity, and it is expected to facilitate financing and insurance for Japanese launch startups such as ISC, Interstellar, and Space One. --- ### 💱 Contracts - Norwegian **Kongsberg Satellite Services (KSAT)** is expanding its partnerships with three Japanese satellite constellation operators. KSAT operates more than 40 ground stations globally, including facilities in Svalbard and Antarctica, giving its customers global network coverage essential to support near-real-time data delivery at constellation scale. - **Axelspace** is [expanding its collaboration with KSAT](https://www.axelspace.com/ja/news/expand%5Fpartnership%5Fwith%5Fksat/?ref=japanearthobserver.com). Axelspace has been working with KSAT since 2021, but with seven next-generation GRUS-3 satellites coming online, Axelspace will need more ground station capacity. - **iQPS** [signed an expanded partnership agreement with KSAT](https://i-qps.net/news/3668/?ref=japanearthobserver.com) to support its 36-satellite SAR constellation planned for completion by 2030\. iQPS will adopt KSAT's *KSATlite*, a fully automated ground station service designed for small satellites and mega-constellations. iQPS is aiming to image virtually any location on Earth within an average of 10 minutes or observe specific regions at 10-minute intervals. - **Synspective** and KSAT announced an [expansion of their strategic alliance](https://synspective.com/press-release/2026/ksat%5Fpartnership/?ref=japanearthobserver.com), to support operations of its StriX SAR satellite constellation. Similar to iQPS, Synspective will leverage KSATlite to increase downlink opportunities and accelerate delivery of SAR data products with minimal latency. Key focus areas for joint development include sovereign capability solutions and maritime domain awareness. - **Hokkaido Spaceport** has signed an MOU with US firm, **Firefly Aerospace** for a launch feasibility study. **Space Cotan** (the Hokkaido Spaceport operator) will work with Firefly to study launching Firefly's Alpha rocket from Hokkaido. The study will assess technical requirements and regulatory requirements for orbital launch capability from northern Japan in order to serve the broader Asian satellite market. - **ispace** and Japan Airlines (JAL) have signed a lunar payload service agreement for Mission 3 planned for 2028..ispace and Jalux (JAL’s trading arm) will launch the "Argo Project" offering commercial lunar payload capacity to private enterprises and municipalities. Jalux has designed a 20x20x10 cm "Möbius Ark" container for cultural and regional items destined for the lunar surface - **Idemitsu Kosan** has been awarded funds from the JAXA Space Strategy Fund for [efficiency improvement and mass production of space CIGS](https://prtimes.jp/main/html/rd/p/000000664.000023740.html?ref=japanearthobserver.com) (copper indium gallium selenide) thin-film solar cells. The lightweight, flexible, radiation-hardened cells minimize restricted rare metals compared to traditional multi-junction cells. A dedicated R&D and pilot manufacturing line is scheduled to open at Idemitsu's next-generation technology research institute in Chiba in 2027. - **Rymansat Project** has signed a launch agreement with **Alba Orbital** for [Japan's first PocketQube satellite](https://rspq.rymansat.jp/?ref=japanearthobserver.com). Rymansat Project is a Japanese all-volunteer community space group that builds small satellites; the RSP-P00 is Japan's first PocketQube-class (5cm square) picosatellite. Alba Orbital is a Scotland-based company that makes the [AlbaPod satellite deployer technology](https://www.albaorbital.com/rymansatpocketqube?ref=japanearthobserver.com) and contracts with rideshare missions like those provided by SpaceX. The PocketQube form factor is making space more accessible to high school, university, and other development teams with limited resources. - **Innovative Space Carrier (ISC)** [passed a stage gate review](https://innovative-space-carrier.co.jp/news/20260605?ref=japanearthobserver.com) \[ISC\] on its Phase 3 Small Business Innovation Research (SBIR) and has unlocked an additional allocation of ¥1 billion (\~ US $6.9 million) as well as an extension of the contract period. The additional funding will help support ISC's development of a reusable launch vehicle program and reflects a positive official assessment of the company's technical and commercial progress. - **JAMSS (Japan Manned Space Systems Corporation)** has been [awarded an additional year on its R&D](https://www.jamss.co.jp/news/detail.php?id=f8iesyo6ri31&ref=japanearthobserver.com) with Japan's **Ministry of Land, Infrastructure, Transport and Tourism (MLIT)** under its Stardust space development accelerator program. The research is focused on developing automated construction technology for a future lunar base (宇宙建設革新プロジェクト). In FY2025, JAMSS developed staged scenarios spanning from pre-habitation preparation through early crewed lunar development. In the FY2026 phase, the scope expands to conducting simulations and verification of construction processes within a digital twin environment. - **ASTRO GATE,** a spaceport planning and operations firm, announced it will work with **Cosmotech** to [jointly conduct operational support for JAXA](https://space-connect.jp/astrogate-center/?ref=japanearthobserver.com) \[Space Connect\]'s newly established Public-Private Co-Creation Propulsion Development Center (官民共創推進系開発センター) at JAXA's Kakuda Space Center in Miyagi Prefecture, partnering with Co., Ltd., which received the primary contract from JAXA. The center is designed to lower the entry barrier for private companies and research institutions developing liquid rocket engines, offering test facilities that accommodate engine system tests, turbopump tests, combustion chamber tests, and component trials using mobile test stands adaptable to diverse configurations. The new services from ASTROGATE and Cosmotech aim to provide one-stop development support. - *Why does this matter?* If Japan is going to reach its goal of 30 domestic rocket launches per year by the early 2030s, it needs to help private launch vehicle developers to move faster with fewer resources. By providing national rocket engine development and test facilities for shared use, companies can avoid the cost and time required to build their own test facilities. - **Murata Manufacturing** has [signed an MOU with U.S. navigation company](https://space-connect.jp/murata-pnt/?ref=japanearthobserver.com) \[Space Connect\] **Xona Space Systems** to jointly develop LEO positioning technology. Xona operates the "Pulsar" LEO PNT service, which offers stronger ground signal strength and faster positioning data acquisition compared to traditional PNT systems (like GPS and Galileo) that operate in medium- or high-orbit. The collaboration will combine Xona's LEO PNT infrastructure with Murata's high-frequency/wireless communications, sensor, timing device, and module design technologies to develop products and solutions applicable to industrial equipment, communications infrastructure, mobility (including autonomous vehicles, drones, and construction machinery), and defense. Murata’s venture division, WONDERSTONE Ventures, had previously made a financial investment in Xona. **Furuno**, another Japanese firm has also been testing the Xona signals. - **Aisan Technology** has launched *Dexio*, a building-level digital twin platform that integrates 3D city models (LOD1–LOD4) with point clouds, a citizen reporting tool, and road maintenance workflows. Dexio is uilt on Eukarya's open-source [Re:Earth](https://reearth.io/?ref=japanearthobserver.com) web-GIS system and also leverages MLIT's open data Project PLATEAU specifications. - **Mitsubishi Electric** has been awarded a contract to build an [Orbital Transfer Vehicle (OTV)](https://www.mitsubishielectric.com/en/pr/2026/0610%5Fds/?ref=japanearthobserver.com) \[MELCO\]. Mitsubishi Electric has previously made significant contributions to the HTV and HTV-X cargo vehicles as well as lunar and deep space probes. Leveraging this work, the funding will support development of an OTV capable of moving spacecraft and payloads between orbits for the purpose of servicing, payload delivery, and refuelling. - **Sharp**, **Japan Radio,** and **Sky Perfect JSAT** have been awarded an R&D contract with the Ministry of Defense (JMoD) for [development of flat antennas](https://asia.nikkei.com/business/aerospace-defense-industries/sharp-defense-satellite-receivers-offer-both-low-and-geostationary-links?ref=japanearthobserver.com) \[Nikkei Asia\] (rather than parabolic) that can receive signals from satellites in both LEO and GEO orbits. - **Synspective** successfully launched its 10th SAR satellite, Strix-10 (aka "Ten Owl of Ten") from Mahia Peninsula, NZ on a RocketLab Electron. Synspective has booked 18 more missions with RocketLab in order to complete its constellation. - **Synspective** also [gained CEOS-ARD certification](https://synspective.com/information/2026/ceos%5Fard%5Fcertification/?ref=japanearthobserver.com). The Committee on Earth Observation Satellites (CEOS) is an international coordinating body of more than 60 member and associate organizations, including JAXA, ESA, and NASA. CEOS-ARD is the international standard for satellite data that is ready to use without preprocessing; it’s “analysis-ready data” and gaining the certification requires a greater level of transparency than many EO firms are ready to provide. Synspective is the first commercial SAR satellite operator globally to achieve this certification. - **SKY Perfect JSAT** and UK-based **Avanti Communications** have [signed a satellite purchase agreement for the Ka-band geostationary communications satellite](https://www.skyperfectjsat.space/en/news/20260610?ref=japanearthobserver.com) *HYLAS 3*. Following testing and transfer of the Avanti satellte, SKY Perfect JSAT will assume full ownership and will rebrand it *JSAT-144D*. It is expected to enter commercial operations for JSAT in early FY2027\. HYLAS 3 is built on an OHB System satellite bus and is equipped with Ka-band multi-spot beams offering high-throughput and flexible coverage with beam-steering capability for on-demand regional adjustment. It’s orbit is focused on East Asia including Japan. This purchase compliements SKY Perfect JSAT's existing Ku-band geostationary fleet, enabling a multi-band communications network capable of addressing increasingly complex customer requirements, such as autonomous systems and national security applications. - **NTT** [signed an MOU with Irish space-based optical communications firm](https://spacemedia.jp/news/19108?ref=japanearthobserver.com) **MBRYONICS**. Under the agreement MBRYONICS will develop an optical transceiver module incorporating NTT's digital coherent technology, which is expected to increase space communication speeds by more than ten-fold over conventional methods. The module will then be integrated into multiple commercial space optical communication terminals (OCTs). This project is a step toward NTT's IOWN (Innovative Optical and Wireless Network) architecture expanding into the space domain. - Both **NTT Group** and **Sky Perfect JSAT** have become [Amazon Leo resellers in Japan](https://spacemedia.jp/news/19230?ref=japanearthobserver.com). Amazon Leo is a new LEO broadband service being developed by Blue Origin to compete with Starlink. Both companies plan to sell the service to enterprises and government customers. NTT will be selling the offering under its NTT C89 brand. - The **Graduate University for Advanced Studies (SOKENDAI)** and satellite data platform operator **Tellus** signed a [collaboration agreement to advance academic research and develop next-generation research talent](https://spacemedia.jp/news/19239?ref=japanearthobserver.com) \[SPACE Media\] in fields utilizing satellite data and cloud computing. Under the agreement, SOKENDAI will leverage its network of inter-university research institutes for cutting-edge academic research and researcher training, while Tellus will offer satellite data and cloud computing infrastructure as well as host doctoral students as interns. --- ### 💴 Equity Funding - **Sky Perfect JSAT** has taken an 800M yen (\~US $5 million) equity stake in **Astroscale** for on-orbit servicing as part of Astroscale's broader funding round. The partnership aims to deploy on-orbit satellite servicing and life extension for JSAT's fleet of 17 geostationary satellites. - **MJOLNIR SPACEWORKS (MSW)** has [closed a Series B funding round](https://space-connect.jp/msw-seriesb/?ref=japanearthobserver.com) \[Space Connect\] of ¥1.7 billion (\~ US $11.5 million), which includes ¥1.2 billion in a third-party allotment equity round and a ¥500 million credit facility. Investors include Incubate Fund, Uchu Frontier Fund No. 2, JIC Venture Growth Investments, and Z Venture Capital, with the credit facility from the Shoko Chukin Bank. The raise brings MSW's cumulative funding to ¥2.0 billion. MSW will invest the funds in advancing its hybrid rocket engine technology, which uses plastic solid fuel and liquid oxidizer, as well as expanding test facilities and developing next-generation engine designs. The company is also developing weld-free rocket propellant tanks for rapid production. MSW has also been awarded ¥1.8 billion over four years in Phase 2 of the [JAXA Space Strategy Fund](https://www.japanearthobserver.com/jeo-17-japans-space-strategy-fund-in-2026/) \[JEO 17\] to develop ultra-lightweight high-pressure gas storage technology. - **Dai Nippon Printing (DNP) (大日本印刷)** and **ElevationSpace** signed a strategic partnership to co-develop a one-stop service combining in-orbit materials testing via ElevationSpace's re-entry capsules with DNP's ground-based structural analysis capabilities. The alliance targets Japanese manufacturers trying to enter the space sector by providing domestic, end-to-end space-proven material qualification, reducing reliance on foreign testing infrastructure. The DNP funding is part of ElevationSpace closing a [new ¥10.1 billion (\~US $40m) Series B funding round](https://payloadspace.com/elevationspace-closes-40m-series-b/?ref=japanearthobserver.com) \[Payload\] (total funding is now $63.5 million). The other funders include: **SPARX Asset Management**, **Beyond Next Ventures**, **Toyoda Gosei**, **Nippon Life Insurance**, **Mitsubishi UFJ Capital**, **SMBC Venture Capital**, **NTT Docomo Ventures**, **Z Venture Capital**, **Itochu Technology Ventures.** - *Why does this matter?* ElevationSpace is the leading Japanese firm developing technology for LEO manufacturing and return to Earth, so the funding is a shot in the arm for them to build out their ELS-R reentry capsule. But there are several competitors in North America and Europe, including Varda’s Winnebago and Reditus Space. There is also a race to develop point-to-point cargo delivery services that require related capabilities. These include SpaceX Starfall, ATMOS Space Cargo (Germany), Inversion Space, and Outpost Space. ![05-elsr-elevation-space.png](https://storage.ghost.io/c/54/e9/54e9159b-1345-41dd-b7dd-180de33edc5b/content/images/2026/09/05-elsr-elevation-space.png) Render of ELS-R platform. Source: ElevationSpace - **Solafune** has [made a strategic investment](https://company.solafune.com/news/solafune-invests-in-fortis-intelligence-advisory-and-joins-its-management-team?ref=japanearthobserver.com) in **Fortis Intelligence Advisory Co.**, a Tokyo-based national security advisory firm. The investment signals Solafune's deepening push into the defense and intelligence sector, complementing its existing satellite data analytics and geospatial AI capabilities. The plan is to integrate Fortis Intelligence Advisory's expertise in national security, security, and intelligence with Solafune's *Planetary Intelligence OS* platform to create a next-generation AI-driven intelligence platform tailored to national security clients. - **Mitsubishi UFJ Bank** [contributed to the latest $525 million funding round](https://spacemedia.jp/news/19193?ref=japanearthobserver.com) \[SPACE Media\] for **Axiom Space**. MUFJ is a new investor and the round was led by Type One Ventures and Qatar Investment Authority. The funding will be used to continue development of Axiom Station, the next-generation commercial space station intended to succeed the ISS, as well as the AxEMU next-generation spacesuit. - **Space BD** [completed a Series C fundraising round at a total of over ¥3.5 billion](https://space-bd.com/ja/news/news20260617-001.html?ref=japanearthobserver.com) (\~US $23 million), bringing cumulative capital raised to ¥6.68 billion (¥5.15 billion via third-party allotment increases and ¥1.53 billion in borrowing). This is actually Space BD’s second announcement of Series C funding. They announced an initial tranche of ¥2.4 billion in January 2026\. Additional investors in this additional close include **Aozora Corporate Investment**, **ON&BOARD**, **Kampo NEXT Partners**, **XTech Ventures**, **Shin Nippon Air Technologies**, **Japan Investment Adviser**, **Spiral Innovation Partners**, and **Nihon Venture Capital**. Space BD plans to use the new capital for hiring and training talent, expansion of launch service capacity by securing additional rocket launch slots, and strengthening its fabless manufacturer function by building in-house planning, design, and quality control capabilities. --- ### 🔭 Science - **SPACE SHIFT (スペースシフト)** has [developed a new proprietary SAR signal processing technique its calling “Eclipse band”](https://www.spcsft.com/news/4826/?ref=japanearthobserver.com) that reduces azimuth ambiguity – a phenomenon in Synthetic Aperture Radar (SAR) imagery where signals from unintended objects appear in the image due to the observation principle – without degrading resolution. The Eclipse band technique generates multiple sub-images with intentionally partially-missing frequency bands, cross-referencing them at pixel level to distinguish genuine target returns from sidelobe-derived artifacts, and replaces only the artifact pixels in the full-aperture image. The technology was demonstrated using JAXA’s ALOS PALSAR and ALOS-4 PALSAR-3 data. SPACE SHIFT has already filed for a Japanese domestic patent and intends to integrate Eclipse band into its existing *SateAIs*™ AI and analytics platform. - A research team at **Iwate University**, **Hirosaki University,** and **Okuyama Boring Co.** has [developed algorithms that use multiple drone LiDAR images to model underground landslide slip planes](https://www.mdpi.com/2072-4292/18/12/1984?ref=japanearthobserver.com) \[MDPI\]. This offers a new approach to landslide dynamics prediction for disaster recovery. ![06-landslide-slipspace-hirosaki.png](https://storage.ghost.io/c/54/e9/54e9159b-1345-41dd-b7dd-180de33edc5b/content/images/2026/09/06-landslide-slipspace-hirosaki.png) Cutaway view of a slip surface derived from the drone flights. Source: Iwate Unv., Hirosaki Univ. and Okuayama Boring Co. - **JAXA-ESA EarthCARE** [cloud profiling radar data is now being integrated into ECMWF weather forecasts](https://www.ecmwf.int/en/about/media-centre/news/2026/earthcare-cloud-radar-data-world-first?ref=japanearthobserver.com) \[ECMWF\]. The EarthCARE satellite, launched in May 2024, is a joint mission of ESA and JAXA. The cloud profiling radar (CPR) instrument, which uses radar to visualize the internal vertical structure of clouds, was developed by JAXA. This is the first operational integration of cloud radar observations by any weather forecasting center. The CPR data is expected to improve the accuracy of forecasts for extreme weather events such as typhoons and heavy rainfall, and to strengthen floods and landslides early warning capabilities. Because ECMWF generates global forecasts, the new data will benefit any weather agency that leverages ECMWF forecasts. ![07-earth-care-esa-jaxa.png](https://storage.ghost.io/c/54/e9/54e9159b-1345-41dd-b7dd-180de33edc5b/content/images/2026/09/07-earth-care-esa-jaxa.png) A diagram describing how EarthCARE’s CPR data is integrated into ECMWF’s forecasting system. Source: Credit: ESA/JAXA/ECMWF --- ### 🗺️ International Collaborations - **Japan’s METI** and **Thailand’s MHESI** have agreed to an [MOU focusing on cooperating on LEO satellite constellations](https://www.bangkokpost.com/thailand/general/3275589/cabinet-okays-space-pact-with-japan?ref=japanearthobserver.com). The cooperation will be coordinated through GISTDA (Thailand’s geospatial and space agency) and JAXA. Targets economic value creation, industrial growth, national security, and disaster monitoring. The agreement builds on existing GISTDA-JAXA data-sharing partnerships including use of the JAXA ALOS satellites and SENTINEL Asia program for regional flood monitoring via Thailand's Sriracha ground station. - The **Paraguay's Chamber of Deputies** approved a [$23.7M grant from Japan to build a satellite technology development facility at the National University of Asunción](https://www.concepcionaldia.com/sancionan-donacion-de-usd-237-millones-del-gobierno-de-japon-para-dotar-de-tecnologia-a-centro-espacial/?ref=japanearthobserver.com) \[CAD\]. The new facility will be operated by the Paraguay Space Agency and will include and Space Lab for small/nano-satellite design, development, and testing as well as a Geo Lab for EO data analysis and disaster management. - **JAXA** and the **United Nations Office for Outer Space Affairs (UNOOSA)** [selected two teams for the ninth round of the *KiboCUBE* programme](https://global.jaxa.jp/press/2026/06/20260611-1%5Fe.html?ref=japanearthobserver.com) \[JAXA\], which provides developing nations with CubeSat deployment opportunities from the ISS's Japanese Experiment Module Kibo. The selected teams are: - **Key Institute of El Salvador**, developing *CAREY*, a 1U CubeSat, which will beEl Salvador's first-ever satellite and will conduct IoT data collection, image acquisition, and low-Earth-orbit cosmic ray measurements - **Chulalongkorn University of Thailand**, developing *CUSAT-1,* a 1U CubeSat targeting flood monitoring, environmental pollution monitoring, and IoT relay applications. --- ## 🎥 Videos **JAXA** - HTV-X Dual Use explainer video \[[Japanese](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=sRItw-iFkt0&ref=japanearthobserver.com)\] - H3 Flight 6 - Pre-Launch briefing \[[Japanese](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=VeiKYagaT1E&ref=japanearthobserver.com)\] - Live Broadcast \[[Japanese](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=1U9WBmfUMZs&t=1273s&ref=japanearthobserver.com)\] - Post-launch Press Conference --- ## 📆 Asia-Pacific Conferences & Events This newsletter is mostly focused on Japan, but I also like to highlight events across the Asia-Pacific region. Some upcoming conferences include: **August 2026** - [FOSS4G Hiroshima](https://www.osgeo.jp/foss4g-2026-hiroshima?ref=japanearthobserver.com) \- 30 Aug - 5 September - Hiroshima, Japan **September 2026** - [Bengaluru Space Expo (BSX) 2026](https://www.spaceagenda.com/event/bengaluru-space-expo-bsx-2026/?ref=japanearthobserver.com) \- 7 - 9 Sep - Bengaluru, India - [UN/Republic of Korea Workshop on ISWI](https://www.spaceagenda.com/event/un-republic-of-korea-workshop-on-iswi-ai-enabled-space-weather-2026/?ref=japanearthobserver.com) \- AI-Enabled Space Weather 2026 - 7 - 11 Sep - Seoul, South Korea - [35th Congress of the International Council of the Aeronautical Sciences (ICAS)](https://icas2026.com/?ref=japanearthobserver.com) \- 13 - 18 Sep - Sydney, Australia - [Planetary Exploration Workshop 2026 (惑星探査ワークショップ 2026)](https://www.isas.jaxa.jp/researchers/?ref=japanearthobserver.com) \- 24 Sep - Sagamihara, Japan - [2nd OPENS International Scientific Workshop (第2回 OPENS国際科学ワークショップ)](https://www.isas.jaxa.jp/researchers/?ref=japanearthobserver.com) \- 28-29 Sep - Sagamihara, Japan - [EARTHBRAIN Technology Conference](https://jp.smartconstruction.com/earthbrain-technology-conference?ref=japanearthobserver.com) \- 29 Sep - - [25th Australian Space Research Conference (ASRC 2026)](https://www.spaceagenda.com/event/asrc-2026-25th-australian-space-research-conference/?ref=japanearthobserver.com) \- 29 Sep - 1 Oct - Adelaide, Australia **October 2026** - [New Zealand Aerospace Summit 2026](https://www.aerospace.org.nz/summit?ref=japanearthobserver.com) \- 1 - 2 Oct - Christchurch, New Zealand - [39th MEWS - JAXA Microelectronics Workshop 2026](https://www.spaceagenda.com/event/39th-mews-jaxa-microelectronics-workshop-2026/?ref=japanearthobserver.com) \- 1 - 31 Oct - Tsukuba, Japan - [Code for Japan Summit 2026](https://cfjsummit-2026.peatix.com/event/4990877/?ref=japanearthobserver.com) \- 3 Oct - Chiyoda-ku, Tokyo - [47th Asian Conference on Remote Sensing (ACRS 2026)](https://www.spaceagenda.com/event/acrs-2026-47th-asian-conference-on-remote-sensing/?ref=japanearthobserver.com) \- 12 - 16 Oct - New Delhi, India - [Space Summit Asia-Pacific](https://www.selectbioconferences.com/spaceap2026?ref=japanearthobserver.com) \- 13 - 14 Oct - Narita/Tokyo, Japan - [Hokkaido Space Summit](https://hokkaidospaceport.com/summit/?ref=japanearthobserver.com) \- 14 - 16 Oct - Obihiro, Hokkaido, Japan - [Space Innovation Challenge 2026](https://unisec-global.org/calendar.html?ref=japanearthobserver.com) \- 26 Oct - Bangkok, Thailand - [Space for Island Nations Conference (SINC)](https://sinc2026.org/%20?ref=japanearthobserver.com) \- 26 - 28 Oct - Malé, Maldives - [10th Global Moon Village Workshop & Symposium](https://moonvillageassociation.org/?ref=japanearthobserver.com) \- 26-27 Oct - Bangkok, Thailand - [Asia-Pacific International Symposium on Aerospace Technology (APISAT 2026)](https://smartconf.jp/content/apisat2026/?ref=japanearthobserver.com) (第64回 飛行機シンポジウム) - 27 - 29 Oct - Sapporo, Japan - [32nd Asia-Pacific Regional Space Agency Forum (APRSAF-32)](https://www.aprsaf.org/annual%5Fmeetings/aprsaf32/meeting%5Fdetails.php?ref=japanearthobserver.com) \- 27 - 30 Oct - Bangkok, Thailand - [JSASS Annual Meeting 2026](https://smartconf.jp/content/hikoki64/?ref=japanearthobserver.com) \- 28 - 30 Oct - Sapporo, Japan - [Thailand Space Expo 2026](https://tsx.gistda.or.th/?ref=japanearthobserver.com) \- 28 - 31 Oct - Bangkok, Thailand --- # If you’ve made it this far, thank you for reading. Please be in touch [via LinkedIn](https://www.linkedin.com/in/rcheetham/?ref=japanearthobserver.com) with any feedback, questions, comments, or requests for future topics. And if you have a friend or colleague that you think would enjoy JEO, please share it! Until next time, Robert --- One after another, people rest on this stone on the summer moor. \-– Masaoka Shiki (1867–1902) - translated by R. H. Blyth 人休む 一つ石あり 夏野原 *hito yasumu* *hitotsu ishi ari* *natsunohara* ### JEO 18 - News Roundup - 30 July 2026 URL: https://www.japanearthobserver.com/jeo-18-news-roundup-30-july-2026/ Last updated: 2026-07-30T12:00:19.000Z *Welcome to Japan Earth Observer (JEO), a newsletter about the space, Earth observation and geospatial industries in Japan.* Topping this news roundup, Synspective has two more satellites in orbit and Axiom Space has opened a Japan office, plus the usual funding and contract announcements, science, international collaborations, and conferences. I will be in Japan in mid-August in order attend [FOSS4G Hiroshima 2026](https://2026.foss4g.org/en/?ref=japanearthobserver.com) as well as help organize a few additional events that I invite you to consider attending: - **Cloud Native Geospatial (CNG) Japan** \- *Mon, 24 August - JAMSTEC, Yokohama* \- a half-day community meetup in Tokyo with demos, conversation, and a social reception. Registration is [now open](https://luma.com/majfkvtc?ref=japanearthobserver.com). - **STAC Japan Code Sprint and Workshops** \- *Tue 25 Aug - Thur 27 Aug - JAXA Tsukuba Space Center.* This second event is actually three-in-on. There will be a. The first day is a code sprint. Day 2 is a workshop for STAC producers and Day 3 is a workshop for STAC data users. [Advance registration](https://cloudnativegeo.org/events/stac-japan-2026/?ref=japanearthobserver.com) is required. - **Cesium DevDay Japan** \- \*Wed 19 Aug - XXXXX - A mini-conference around the Cesium 3D visualization ecosystem, which has a lot of partners and users in Japan. These are going to be great events, and I'm looking forward to both connecting with friends and meeting new folks in the geospatial open source and open data community. On to the news… ## News & Announcements ### 🛰️ Technology and Infrastructure - **Synspective**’s [Strix 9 satellite (aka "Viva La StriX”) was launched](https://www.space.com/space-exploration/launches-spacecraft/watch-rocket-lab-launch-private-japanese-earth-observing-satellite-early-on-may-22?ref=japanearthobserver.com) by Rocket Lab on 22 May to a 572 km orbit and 44.8° inclination and [Strix 10 (aka “Ten Owl of Ten”) was launched](https://www.space.com/space-exploration/launches-spacecraft/rocket-lab-ten-owl-of-ten-mission-for-synspective-launch?ref=japanearthobserver.com) \[Space.com\] on 27 June (NZST and JST) )to a 552 km orbit at 42° inclination. - **Axiom Space**, the commercial space station aspirant, will be [opening a subsidiary in Tokyo headed by former Japanese astronaut Wakata Koichi](https://asia.nikkei.com/business/aerospace-defense-industries/us-startup-axiom-space-to-set-up-japan-unit-with-astronaut-at-helm?ref=japanearthobserver.com) (currently Axiom's CTO). The hope is that a Tokyo office will boost collaboration with Japanese companies. Trading house **Mitsui & Co** is a major investor in Axiom. Other Japanese collaborators include **Resonac Holdings**, which does R&D and manufacturing with semiconductor materials. - **JAXA** and **AstroX** [kicked off a joint business demonstration phase under JAXA's J-SPARC](https://global.jaxa.jp/press/2026/05/20260528-1%5Fe.html?ref=japanearthobserver.com) \[JAXA\] (JAXA Space Innovation Partnership) program. AstroX will leverage JAXA’s balloon systems to develop a Rockoon: a rocket that can be launched from the stratosphere suspended from a balloon. The rocket system was successfully tested on the ground earlier this year, and the JAXA support will enable testing in simulated stratosphere environment as well as scaled testing. - **SKY Perfect JSAT** will [build a new satellite network control center](https://www.skyperfectjsat.space/jp/news/20260525?ref=japanearthobserver.com) in Minami-kan-machi, Kumamoto. The new center will join the existing national network of control facilities in Yokohama, Ibaraki, Yamaguchi, Hokkaido, and Okinawa and will support both GEO and LEO satellite communications services. - An amended **Meteorological Business Act (気象業務法)** came into effect on 29 May. The revised law strengthens regulations on “unauthorized foreign entities” providing weather forecast services in Japan, introducing mandatory designation of domestic representatives and public disclosure of non-licensed operators. Five major Japanese private-sector meteorological companies - **Weathernews Inc.**, **Weather Map Co.**, **Nihon Kisho Co.**, **Japan Meteorological Association**, and **Hallex Co**. - [issued a joint statement endorsing the newly strengthened lack of foreign competition](https://jp.weathernews.com/news/56138/?ref=japanearthobserver.com) in the name of “reliability and accuracy of weather information”. - *Old things become heritage.* The **Japan Society for Aeronautical and Space Sciences (JSAS) (日本航空協会)** [certified five historic space vehicles as Aerospace Technology Heritage (航空宇宙技術遺産)](https://www.jaxa.jp/topics/2026/index%5Fj.html?ref=japanearthobserver.com#news23157) \[JAXA\]. The designation covers the H-IIA rocket, its heavy-lift counterpart H-IIB, the Kounotori HTV cargo spacecraft, the Ryusei re-entry capsule, and Kiku-2 (Japan's first geostationary satellite, launched in 1977). JSAS designates groundbreaking products and technologies that have shaped the history of aerospace technology development in Japan. ![01-h-IIb-no8-shintarou-wiki-cc-by-sa4.jpg](https://storage.ghost.io/c/54/e9/54e9159b-1345-41dd-b7dd-180de33edc5b/content/images/2026/07/01-h-IIb-no8-shintarou-wiki-cc-by-sa4.jpg) H-IIB No. 8 on its launchpad. Source: Shintarou / Wikipedia CC BY-SA 4.0 --- ### 💱 Contracts - **ElevationSpace** and **Japan LEO Shachu** (日本低軌道社中) signed [an MOU to develop an integrated launch-supply-experiment-return workflow](https://prtimes.jp/main/html/rd/p/000000010.000157170.html?ref=japanearthobserver.com) \[PR Times\]. The goal is to develop a Japan-led LEO ecosystem after the ISS retires. ElevationSpace is developing ELS-RS (Earth Low-orbit Return Service), a small unmanned cargo re-entry service. Japan LEO Shachu, which was founded in 2024 by **Mitsui & Co.** and is now also owned by **Mitsubishi Heavy Industries** and **Mitsubishi Electric**, is involved with developing a future LEO science module and a cargo resupply vessel (HTV-XC). Both projects are funded under Japan's Space Strategy Fund (宇宙戦略基金). These and related efforts are aimed at enabling Japan to build an autonomous, internationally competitive LEO infrastructure for the post-ISS era. - **Synspective** signed partnership agreements with: - [SkyFy](https://synspective.com/press-release/2026/skyfi-partnership/?ref=japanearthobserver.com), which runs a platform that aggregates access to many EO satellite imagery providers as well as enabling its customers to task satellites. By integrating with SkyFi, Synspective puts its imagery in front of more users; it’s a new distribution path. - [e-GEOS](https://synspective.com/press-release/2026/e-geos%5Fpartnership/?ref=japanearthobserver.com) (owned 80% by Telespazio/Leonardo Group and 20% by the Italian Space Agency) to jointly develop advanced geospatial intelligence solutions by integrating Synspective's StriX SAR satellite data with e-GEOS's COSMO-SkyMed constellation data, leveraging multi-sensor platforms, AI-driven analytics, and value-added processing. The partnership combines StriX's inclined-orbit constellation advantage in equatorial region monitoring with COSMO-SkyMed's dual-use heritage, collectively targeting commercial, civil, and national security markets globally. - **SKY Perfect JSAT** has [signed an reseller agreement with **Amazon Leo**](https://www.skyperfectjsat.space/jp/news/20260528?ref=japanearthobserver.com), Amazon's satellite broadband service, JSAT plans to integrate Amazon Leo's capabilities with its own GEO satellite assets and operational expertise to offer hybrid, resilient connectivity solutions for remote locations, disaster response, backup communications, and mission-critical operations. - **GITAI USA**, a subsidiary of GITAI Japan has been [selected by the U.S. Space Force Space Systems Command (SSC) for the Space-Based Interceptor (SBI) program](https://gitai.tech/2026/05/04/gitai-selected-by-u-s-space-force-for-space-based-interceptor-program/?ref=japanearthobserver.com), which aims to counter advanced maneuvering threats in orbit. GITAI is among a limited group of companies chosen through a competitive evaluation to develop space-based interceptor systems and associated satellite platforms for national security missions. GITAI can claim on-orbit heritage, including ISS technology demonstrations and the successful deployment of its in-house 16U satellite platform in LEO. - **ispace** has signed payload services agreements with - **University of Leicester** [to fly a Raman analytical spectrometer](https://ispace-inc.com/news-en/?p=8866&ref=japanearthobserver.com) to the lunar surface on a future ispace ULTRA lander mission. Funded by the UK Space Agency (UKSA), the instrument is designed to determine the molecular composition of lunar regolith and identify resources (like minerals, volatiles, and water ice) relevant to future lunar exploration. - **JALUX**, the trading arm of Japan Airlines (JAL) to [begin selling payload transportation capacity to private companies and local governments](https://ispace-inc.com/news-en/?p=8917&ref=japanearthobserver.com). The collaboration is commercialised as the "ARGO PROJECT" (formally "The ARGO Trans-Lunar Heritage Project"), under which JALUX will develop a dedicated lunar transport container, the "Möbius Ark" for carrying cultural artifacts, regional specialties, and products representative of local Japanese communities to the lunar surface for preservation for future generations. JAL will coordinate collection of items from local governments and companies across Japan. - **Infostellar (株式会社インフォステラ)** and **XDLINX Space Labs** (Hyderabad, India) have [signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) to integrate their respective capabilities across the full satellite mission lifecycle](https://www.infostellar.net/jp/news/XDLINX%5FPartnership?ref=japanearthobserver.com), from design through on-orbit operations. Under the partnership, XDLINX's end-to-end satellite manufacturing and mission integration services will be augmented by Infostellar's global ground station network (operated via its cloud-native StellarStation platform) and Launch and Early Orbit Phase (LEOP) support. - **Ocean Eyes**, a Kyoto-based marine technology startup, [announced a partnership](https://oceaneyes.co.jp/archives/5737?ref=japanearthobserver.com) with **Ocean Economy AI Lab**, a newly established AI startup in the Republic of Mauritius. The collaboration aims to launch a "Smart Fishing" initiative that integrates Japanese satellite data, ocean simulation models, and AI technology with local fishing data and community networks to promote sustainable fisheries in Mauritius. A proof-of-concept (PoC) is currently underway with approximately 30 local fishers, with plans to build an ocean data infrastructure and expand operations based on PoC feedback. - **Tenchijin** signed a [strategic partnership with French water management company](https://tenchijin.co.jp/pressrelease/11070/?hl=en&ref=japanearthobserver.com) **Aqualter**, marking the first deployment of Tenchijin's satellite- and AI-powered leak detection platform *KnoWaterleak* in France. KnoWaterleak will be deployed in Aqualter's long-term water service operation for the metropolitan Chartres area. Separately, both companies signed a reseller agreement making Aqualter an official distributor of KnoWaterleak in the French market. The partnership also targets expansion to other Aqualter-managed projects across France. - **Weathernews** and **JR West** announced a [trial for a jointly developed "Railway Weather AI Agent"](https://jp.weathernews.com/news/56119/?ref=japanearthobserver.com) designed to address intensifying weather-related risks to railway operations. The system combines Weathernews' proprietary observational network, meteorological analysis technology, and precipitation forecasting data with JR West's railway operations expertise and generative AI. The initial focus is on short-duration heavy rainfall (“guerrilla downpours”). When predicted rainfall is forecast to exceed operational thresholds, the system will automatically notify rail control operators. Weathernews plans to expand the agent to other railway operators and broader infrastructure sectors following validation. - **Oceanic Constellations** and **Nippon Yusen Kabushiki Kaisha (NYK Line)** signed a memorandum of cooperation for the [joint development of offshore rocket launch and recovery systems](https://spacemedia.jp/news/18940?ref=japanearthobserver.com) \[Space Media\]. Oceanic Constellations develops autonomous surface vessels (USVs) and aims to deploy multi-USV ocean constellations for maritime monitoring. --- ### 💴 Equity Funding - **Astroscale** and **SKY Perfect JSAT** closed an investment deal that will have [SKY Perfect JSAT invest ¥800 million (\~ US $5.2 million) via third party allotment of shares](https://satnews.com/2026/05/19/astroscale-and-sky-perfect-jsat-alliance-signals-shift-to-in-orbit-maintenance-economy/?ref=japanearthobserver.com) \[SatNews\] as part of a ¥30.6 billion (\~ US $197 million) growth financing round. Astroscale will use the new capital to fund expansion of its facilities. Astroscale is a global leader in on-orbit servicing, including satellite inspection, repair, and life-extension. JSAT brings satellite fleet operations expertise, ground station infrastructure and global partner networks that will enhance Astroscale’s growth opportunities. - *What does this mean?* SKY Perfect JSAT is in a hurry to shift its capital allocations from its legacy broadcast and communications satellite business toward new ventures with greater growth potential. The investment in Astroscale arrives alongside other recent investments like the new JMoD EO constellation and a long-term investment in the iQPS SAR constellation. - **MJOLNIR SPACEWORKS**, a Sapporo-based startup developing hybrid rocket engines and space-grade propellant tanks for mass production, has [completed a Series B funding round totaling up to ¥1.7 billion (\~US $11 million)](https://mjolnir-sw.com/news/%E3%82%A8%E3%82%AF%E3%82%A4%E3%83%86%E3%82%A3%E3%83%BB%E8%9E%8D%E8%B3%87%E6%9E%A0%E3%81%AE%E7%B5%84%E3%81%BF%E5%90%88%E3%82%8F%E3%81%9B%E3%81%A7%E6%9C%80%E5%A4%A717%E5%84%84%E5%86%86%E3%81%AE%E8%B3%87/?ref=japanearthobserver.com) \[Mjolnir\]. The funding round combines a ¥1.2 billion third-party allotment equity raise with investors including Incubate Fund, Sparx Asset Management's Space Frontier Fund No. 2, JIC Venture Growth Investments, and Z Venture Capital, plus a ¥500 million credit facility from Shoko Chukin Bank. MJOLNIR has now raised a total of ¥2.0 billion. The funding will be invested in scaling up hybrid rocket engine thrust and weight reduction, expanding test facilities, next-generation engine design and manufacturing, and recruiting specialist engineers in propulsion, avionics, and structural design. This round follows Mjolnir’s award of funding from the Japan Space Strategy Fund (宇宙戦略基金) in December 2025, which will provide ¥1.8 billion in R&D support over four years. - **Mitsui O.S.K. Lines (MOL)** made an [additional equity investment](https://space-connect.jp/mol-isc/?ref=japanearthobserver.com) \[Space Connect\] in **Innovative Space Carrier (ISC)**, a Japanese rocket startup, following an initial investment made in FY2024\. The two companies are jointly developing a concept for offshore rocket launch and recovery operations targeting demonstration in the 2030s. MOL's maritime operations expertise - including autonomous vessel design, offshore safety management, and fleet control - makes it a critical enabler for ISC's reusable rocket high-frequency operation goals. ![02-offshare-launch-and-recovery-concept-isc.jpg](https://storage.ghost.io/c/54/e9/54e9159b-1345-41dd-b7dd-180de33edc5b/content/images/2026/07/02-offshare-launch-and-recovery-concept-isc.jpg) Innovative Space Carrier’s offshare launch and recovery concept. Source: Innovative Space Carrier - **INDUSTRIAL-X** [raised ¥1.93 billion (\~ US$ 12.45million)](https://spacemedia.jp/news/19009?ref=japanearthobserver.com) \[Space Media\] through third-party share allocation and bank loans. The company specializes in industrial digital solutions and was awarded a Japan's Space Strategy Fund award in 2025 to conduct a feasibility study on building a satellite manufacturing supply chain. - **ZENRIN** will [consolidate ownership](https://www.zenrin.co.jp/english/ir/pdf/260515%5Fwst%5Fe.pdf?ref=japanearthobserver.com) of **Will Smart**, a digital mobility solutions provider. ZENRIN already holds 43.42% of Will Smart’s shares and will pay ¥349 million to bring its ownership stake to 54.10%. The consolidation is driven by Will Smart's deteriorating financial position after reporting an operating loss of ¥283 million in its most recent fiscal year. Will Smart’s solutions integrate ZENRIN’s geospatial map data, and ZENRIN views the disruption of Will Smart's operations as a risk to regional customers and related initiatives. ZENRIN stated it will continue to support Will Smart's independent management once financial performance stabilizes. --- ### 🔭 Science - A Japanese research team that includes **JAXA, Waseda University**, and **Tokyo University of Science** has [successfully conducted a combustion test of a ramjet engine](https://mainichi.jp/english/articles/20260511/p2a/00m/0sc/015000c?ref=japanearthobserver.com) \[Mainichi\] that could accelerate an aircraft to Mach 5, enabling a trip from Tokyo to Los Angeles in under 2 hrs or take passengers from airports into space. The supersonic Concorde jet of the 1970s and 80s topped out at Mach 2\. A Mach 5 jet would travel at 5,400 km/hr and at 25 km altitude. The research team has been working on the concept since 2013 ![03-jaxa-mach-5-hypersonic-aircraft-project-concept-image.jpg](https://storage.ghost.io/c/54/e9/54e9159b-1345-41dd-b7dd-180de33edc5b/content/images/2026/07/03-jaxa-mach-5-hypersonic-aircraft-project-concept-image.jpg) Concept image for Mach 5 hypersonic aircraft: Source: JAXA --- ### 🗺️ International Collaborations - **JAXA** and **ESA** [formalized their collaboration on ESA's planetary defense mission, RAMSES](https://global.jaxa.jp/press/2026/05/20260508-1%5Fe.html?ref=japanearthobserver.com) \[JAXA\] (Rapid Apophis Mission for SpacE Safety), targeting near-Earth asteroid Apophis. JAXA will contribute lightweight Solar Array Wings (SAWs) and a Thermal Infrared Imager (TIRI) to the spacecraft, and will provide launch services aboard the H3 launch vehicle. ESA and JAXA are on schedule to launch RAMSES in 2028, ahead of Apophis's historically close Earth approach in 2029. - **Japan** and **NATO** are [evaluating the mutual use of satellite launch sites](https://asia.nikkei.com/politics/international-relations/nato-and-japan-weigh-shared-use-of-satellite-launch-sites?ref=japanearthobserver.com) \[Nikkei Asia\] in order to ensure satellites that are lost or damaged can be quickly replaced. Japan is not alone; NATO is also seeking participation from South Korea, Australia, and New Zealand in what it calls the Starlift program. The agreement is not finalized, but it builds on Japan’s role in NATO’s Spacenet framework, which centers on sharing technologies used for defense and intelligence. - **JAXA** and the **Vietnam National Space Center (VNSC)** signed a [revised agreement on satellite data exchange](https://www.satnavi.jaxa.jp/en/news/2026/05/12/12399/index.html?ref=japanearthobserver.com) \[JAXA\]. The original agreement was signed in September 2017 and focused on leveraging ALOS-2 data for disaster management, agriculture, and forestry. The new agreement extends this data collaboration to the new ALOS-4 (aka DAICHI-4) as well as strengthening joint R&D efforts under the APRSAF’s Space Applications for Environment (SAFE) initiative. JAXA is also supporting VNSC through the planned launch of Vietnam’s LOTUSat-1 with funding provided under Japanese ODA. --- ## 🎥 Videos **JAXA** - HTV-X Dual Use explainer video \[[Japanese](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=sRItw-iFkt0&ref=japanearthobserver.com)\] **Launches** - Rocket Lab launch of StriX 9 "Viva La StriX” \[[English](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=oyrrCpLFU88&ref=japanearthobserver.com)\] - Rocket Lab launch of StriX 10 “10 Owl of 10” \[[English](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=mD-rTeRXx8o&ref=japanearthobserver.com)\] --- ## 📆 Asia-Pacific Conferences & Events This newsletter is mostly focused on Japan, but I also like to highlight events across the Asia-Pacific region. Some upcoming conferences include: **July 2026** - [JSASS 68th Structural Strength Lecture Conference 2026](https://branch.jsass.or.jp/strcom/structures%5Fconference/sc68/?ref=japanearthobserver.com) \- 29 Jul - 30 Jul - Otsu, Japan **August 2026** - [23rd Annual Meeting of the Asia Oceania Geosciences Society (AOGS )](https://www.asiaoceania.org/aogs2026/?ref=japanearthobserver.com) \- 2 - 7 Aug - Fukuoka, Japan - [36th Astrodynamics Symposium](https://www.isas.jaxa.jp/researchers/symposium/dynamics/fy%5F2026.html?ref=japanearthobserver.com) \- 3 - 5 Aug - Sagamihara, Japan - [𝟮𝗻𝗱 Philippine Space Science and Astronomy Research Conference (𝗣𝗦𝗦𝗔𝗥𝗖)](https://conference.pssar.ph/?ref=japanearthobserver.com) \- 3 - 5 Aug, Cebu City, Philippines - [3rd International Conference on AI Sensors and Transducers (AIS 2026)](https://sciforum.net/event/AIS2026?ref=japanearthobserver.com) \- 2 - 7 Aug - Jeju, South Korea - [Fukushima Space Conference](https://fukushima-space.com/conference-2026/?ref=japanearthobserver.com) \- 6 - 7 Aug - - Philippine Space Week 2026 - 8 - 14 Aug - Manila, Philippines - [OpenStreetMap Kansai Conference](https://openstreetmap.jp/events/1047/?ref=japanearthobserver.com) \- 9 Aug - Osaka, Japan - [15th CanSat/CubeSat Leader Training Program (CLTP)](https://cltp.info/?ref=japanearthobserver.com) \- 18 - 28 Aug - Chiba, Japan - Cesium DevCon Japan - 19 Aug - Tokyo, Japan - [Tokyo Open Data Hackathon 2026 (都知事杯オープンデータ・ハッカソン 2026)](https://odhackathon.metro.tokyo.lg.jp/?ref=japanearthobserver.com) \- 22 Aug - Tokyo, Japan - [Cloud Native Geospatial (CNG) Forum](https://medium.com/radiant-earth-insights/call-for-speakers-cng-japan-2026-c5a0beac013d?ref=japanearthobserver.com) \- 24 Aug - Tokyo, Japan - [STAC Sprint and Workshop](https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSdOCRnAK6-%5FMeHK5FgWKizFcEbPMt-ZaWj8MldagWmYfVO9Pg/viewform?ref=japanearthobserver.com) \- 25 - 27 Aug - JAXA Tsukuba Space Center, Tsukuba, Ibaraki, Japan - [3rd IAA Conference on AI for Space](https://iaaspace.org/event/iaa-latin-american-conference-small-satellite-technologies-and-applications/?ref=japanearthobserver.com) \- 26 Aug - Seoul, Republic of Korea - [Misasa Deep Space Ground Station Open House](https://www.isas.jaxa.jp/home/great/special20260829.html?ref=japanearthobserver.com) \- 29 Aug - JAXA Usuda Deep Space Center - [FOSS4G Hiroshima](https://www.osgeo.jp/foss4g-2026-hiroshima?ref=japanearthobserver.com) \- 30 Aug - 5 September - Hiroshima, Japan **September 2026** - [Bengaluru Space Expo (BSX) 2026](https://www.spaceagenda.com/event/bengaluru-space-expo-bsx-2026/?ref=japanearthobserver.com) \- 7 - 9 Sep - Bengaluru, India - [UN/Republic of Korea Workshop on ISWI](https://www.spaceagenda.com/event/un-republic-of-korea-workshop-on-iswi-ai-enabled-space-weather-2026/?ref=japanearthobserver.com) \- AI-Enabled Space Weather 2026 - 7 - 11 Sep - Seoul, South Korea - [35th Congress of the International Council of the Aeronautical Sciences (ICAS)](https://icas2026.com/?ref=japanearthobserver.com) \- 13 - 18 Sep - Sydney, Australia - [25th Australian Space Research Conference (ASRC 2026)](https://www.spaceagenda.com/event/asrc-2026-25th-australian-space-research-conference/?ref=japanearthobserver.com) \- 29 Sep - 1 Oct - Adelaide, Australia **October 2026** - [New Zealand Aerospace Summit 2026](https://www.aerospace.org.nz/summit?ref=japanearthobserver.com) \- 1 - 2 Oct - Christchurch, New Zealand - [39th MEWS - JAXA Microelectronics Workshop 2026](https://www.spaceagenda.com/event/39th-mews-jaxa-microelectronics-workshop-2026/?ref=japanearthobserver.com) \- 1 - 31 Oct - Tsukuba, Japan - [Code for Japan Summit 2026](https://cfjsummit-2026.peatix.com/event/4990877/?ref=japanearthobserver.com) \- 3 Oct - Chiyoda-ku, Tokyo - [47th Asian Conference on Remote Sensing (ACRS 2026)](https://www.spaceagenda.com/event/acrs-2026-47th-asian-conference-on-remote-sensing/?ref=japanearthobserver.com) \- 12 - 16 Oct - New Delhi, India - [Space Summit Asia-Pacific](https://www.selectbioconferences.com/spaceap2026?ref=japanearthobserver.com) \- 13 - 14 Oct - Narita/Tokyo, Japan - [Hokkaido Space Summit](https://hokkaidospaceport.com/summit/?ref=japanearthobserver.com) \- 14 - 16 Oct - Obihiro, Hokkaido, Japan - [Space for Island Nations Conference (SINC)](https://sinc2026.org/%20?ref=japanearthobserver.com) \- 26 - 28 Oct - Malé, Maldives - [10th Global Moon Village Workshop & Symposium](https://moonvillageassociation.org/?ref=japanearthobserver.com) \- 26-27 Oct - Bangkok, Thailand - [Asia-Pacific International Symposium on Aerospace Technology (APISAT 2026)](https://smartconf.jp/content/apisat2026/?ref=japanearthobserver.com) (第64回 飛行機シンポジウム) - 27 - 29 Oct - Sapporo, Japan - [32nd Asia-Pacific Regional Space Agency Forum (APRSAF-32)](https://www.aprsaf.org/annual%5Fmeetings/aprsaf32/meeting%5Fdetails.php?ref=japanearthobserver.com) \- 27 - 30 Oct - Bangkok, Thailand - [JSASS Annual Meeting 2026](https://smartconf.jp/content/hikoki64/?ref=japanearthobserver.com) \- 28 - 30 Oct - Sapporo, Japan - [Thailand Space Expo 2026](https://tsx.gistda.or.th/?ref=japanearthobserver.com) \- 28 - 31 Oct - Bangkok, Thailand --- --- If you’ve made it this far, thank you for reading. I have also recently started a [YouTube news channel](https://www.youtube.com/@JapanEarthObserver?ref=japanearthobserver.com). Please be in touch [via LinkedIn](https://www.linkedin.com/in/rcheetham/?ref=japanearthobserver.com) with any feedback, questions, comments, or requests for future topics. And if you have a friend or colleague that you think would enjoy JEO, please share it! Until next time, Robert --- *Coolness...* *the sound of the bell* *as it leaves the bell.* *– Yosa Buson (1716–1784) - translated by Robert Hass* *涼しさや* *鐘をはなるる* *かねの声* *suzushisa ya* *kane o hanaruru* *kane no koe* ### JEO 17 - Japan’s Space Strategy Fund in 2026 URL: https://www.japanearthobserver.com/jeo-17-japans-space-strategy-fund-in-2026/ Last updated: 2026-07-27T12:00:35.000Z *Welcome to Japan Earth Observer (JEO), a monthly newsletter about the space, Earth observation, and geospatial industries in Japan.* # JEO 17 - Japan’s Space Strategy Fund in 2026 *Welcome to Japan Earth Observer (JEO), a free newsletter about the space, Earth observation and geospatial industries in Japan. This month we'll take another look at the Space Strategy Fund, what was funded in Phase 2 and some observations now that the Phase 3 topics have been published.* JAXA’s [Space Strategy Fund](https://www.japanearthobserver.com/jeo-3-japans-space-strategy-fund/#japans-space-strategy-fund-space-industrial-policy-at-scale) \[JEO 3\] was one of the first JEO topics that I wrote about in early 2025\. At that time, JAXA had just finished announcing the funding awards from the first year. More than a year later, it has finished announcing the Year 2 funding awards, and the topics for Year 3, and I thought it might make sense to summarize where this major industrial policy instrument stands, particularly as it provides a potential template for Prime Minister Takaichi’s ambitions for major increases in government [investment across 17 strategic technology sectors](https://asia.nikkei.com/economy/japan-maps-2.3tn-investment-plan-across-17-strategic-sectors?ref=japanearthobserver.com) \[Nikkei Asia\] in which the Japanese government believes it has an edge and can build the globally competitive products and services of the future. ## A Brief Background Japan’s Space Strategy Fund (宇宙戦略基金) is a ¥1 trillion (\~US$ 6.7 billion) investment fund that aims to advance Japan’s space industry over a 10 year period in three key priority areas - *1) space transportation* (rockets, spaceports, etc.); *2) satellite technology*, and *3) Earth/lunar exploration* \- plus a category for cross-cutting topics. The fund is an industrial policy response to several observations: - The emergence of many new space industry actors - there are now nearly [80 space agencies around the world today](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/List%5Fof%5Fgovernment%5Fspace%5Fagencies?ref=japanearthobserver.com), 16 of which theoretically have domestic launch capacity, but only a few are able to launch on a regular cadence. - A sense that Japan’s space capabilities have seen a relative decline in international competitiveness. Japan is not alone on this concern; the rapid pace of developments in the U.S. and China as well as the deep pools of capital in these two countries are raising competitive and dependency concerns around the world. - Given the smaller marketplace and smaller capital markets, maintaining an independent, sovereign space capacity will require supply chain autonomy, investment in technology innovation, and government support as both R&D funder and initial customer. The Strategy Fund has three goals: - Grow the Japanese domestic space market from about ¥4 trillion to ¥8 trillion by the early 2030s. - Contribute to solving global and societal issues by utilizing space including societal challenges in energy, environment, agriculture, disaster management, and public health - Frontier technology development - this isn’t funding to expand the status quo; it aims to advance the state-of-the-art While JAXA is the funding conduit and operates the mechanics of soliciting proposals and selecting awardees, the topics and funding actually come from three ministerial agencies: Ministry of Economy, Trade and Industry (METI) (経済産業省), Ministry of Education, Culture, Sports, Science and Technology (MEXT) (文部科学省), and Ministry of Internal Affairs and Communications (MIC) (総務省). The whole effort is overseen by the Cabinet Office (CAO) (内閣府), which is responsible for handling the day-to-day affairs of the Cabinet and is overseen by the Prime Minister. ![01-jaxa-strategy-fund-summary.png](https://storage.ghost.io/c/54/e9/54e9159b-1345-41dd-b7dd-180de33edc5b/content/images/2026/07/01-jaxa-strategy-fund-summary.png) Overview of the Space Strategy Fund’s structure and goals. Source: JAXA The ¥1 trillion fund is intended to be spent over 10 years and began operation in FY2024\. However, the first three years of awards have already had ¥800 billion in funding allocated. This makes sense as most awards span 3-5 years, so most of the awards will need to have been made by the 5th year in order to allocate the funding. While the funding cycles are aligned with the Japanese fiscal year (April 1 - March 31), the Fund calls each funding cycle a “Phase”. | Phase | Funding Amount | Themes / Projects | Transport | Satellites | Exploration | Cross- Cutting | | ----------------------- | -------------- | ----------------- | --------- | ---------- | ----------- | -------------- | | **Phase 1 (FY2024 - )** | ¥300 billion | 22 / 55 | ¥36 B | ¥165 B | ¥74 B | ¥16 B | | **Phase 2 (FY2025 - )** | ¥300 billion | 24 / 112 | ¥63 B | ¥134 B | ¥50 B | ¥44 B | | **Phase 3 (FY2026 - )** | ¥200 billion | 19 / 80 (est.) | ¥48 B | ¥50 B | ¥32 B | ¥24 B | | **Total** | *¥800 billion* | *65 / 247* | *¥147 B* | *¥349 B* | *¥156 B* | *¥84 B* | JAXA manages the effort, so the President of JAXA, Dr. Yamakawa Hiroshi, is ultimately responsible, but the effort is overseen by an outside Program Director, SPACETIDE Foundation President & CEO, Masayasu Ishida. Then there is a Program Officer for each domain (Transportation, Satellites, and Exploration) and a review committee for each theme/topic. ![02-ssf-org-chart.png](https://storage.ghost.io/c/54/e9/54e9159b-1345-41dd-b7dd-180de33edc5b/content/images/2026/07/02-ssf-org-chart.png) Space Strategy Fund org chart. Source: JAXA | Theme | | | ----------------------------------------------------------------------------- | ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- | | **宇宙輸送 Space Transportation** | **Awards** | | | *Technologies for ensuring safety of human space transportation systems (MEXT) - ¥10B* | | Iwatani Giken | Pressurized cabin and crew systems (ECLSS) for general purpose crewed spacecraft | | Space Systems Development | Pressurized cabin ECLSS technology to ensure the safety of crewed space transportation | | Innovative Space Carrier | Technologies for visualization, detection, and evacuation to support the safety of crewed space transportation | | Mitsubishi Heavy Industries | Demonstration of anomaly detection and emergency evacuation to ensure the safety of crewed space transportation | | | *System technology for smart launch sites (MEXT) - ¥8.5B* | | None | None | | | *Rocket Components for High-Frequency Launch Operations (METI) - ¥19.5B* | | NEC Space Technologies | Enhancement of software-defined radios for rockets and LEO constellation satellites | | Eagle Industry | Mass production of seals for rocket turbo pumps | | Space BD | Multi-satellite transport adapter ("TOHRO" (Lantern)) | | Air Water | High-efficiency liquefied biomethane production technology for rocket fuel | | Symphonia Technology | Compact, low-cost TVC device with integrated electromechanical and electrical components | | MJOLNIR SPACEWORKS | Technology and manufacturing process for ultralight air storage devices | | SUIHO SPACE INNOVATIONS | Electric valves and pre-combustion injectors for reusable propulsion systems | | | *Feasibility Study for Spaceport Facilities to Enable High-Frequency Launches (METI) - ¥0.5B* | | IHI Aerospace | Design and feasibility study of general-purpose equipment for launch ranges | | | *Rocket Manufacturing Processes for High-Frequency Launches (METI) - ¥24.5B* | | UACJ | Innovation of manufacturing process for large aluminum forgings used in rocket structures | | Toray Carbon Magic | Automated lamination technology for large-diameter and large 3D molded bodies | | Tokuda Kogyo | Expanding production of thin-walled, high-precision, large parts | | Fuji Seiko | Proximity effect of the manufacturing process of bellows for rockets and vacuum heat treatment furnaces | | Hikari Seisakusho | Machining technology for space transport vehicle parts | | Space One | Innovation of the manufacturing process for solid-fuel motors using robotics technology | | Hokuto | Flexible assembly system for rocket structure assembly | | Akahoshi Kogyo | Manufacturing process for cylinder components of rocket propellant tanks | | IHI Corporation | Rocket engine manufacturing processes with integrated combustor design and manufacturing | | **衛星等 Satellites** | **Awards** | | | Technologies for flexible utilization of space (MEXT) - ¥16.5B\* | | Mitsubishi Electric | Foundational technologies for on-orbit manufacturing | | Toray Industries | High-performance resin materials for space and 3D additive manufacturing in orbit | | Power Laser Technology | Adaptive predictive control debris removal technology using ground-based lasers | | Star Signal Solutions | Demonstration of ultra-small debris detection technology and data utilization | | IHI Corporation | Inverse synthetic aperture laser radar (ISAL) technology for high-resolution image acquisition from long distances | | Power Laser Technology | Super-resolution monitoring technology for space debris using ground-based lasers | | | Technology to accelerate use of Earth observation data (MEXT) - ¥4B\* | | Preferred Networks | Next-generation weather forecasting platform through integration of satellite data and AI | | Tellus | Space information industry ecosystem through an AI-driven satellite data utilization platform | | Space Data | Phase-free disaster response AI satellite observation and multimodal 3D digital twin platform | | | Technology for orbital transfer, in-orbit refueling, and space logistics (MEXT) - ¥30B\* | | NEC Corporation | Develop of an inter-orbital transport vehicle | | Pale Blue | Develop ultra-small inter-orbital transport vehicles for cislunar transportation | | Mitsubishi Electric | Develop a general-purpose inter-orbital transport vehicle utilizing autonomous RPOD technology | | Astroscale | Develop electric propellant refueling technology for geostationary orbital services | | Yokohama National Univ. | Develop interdisciplinary analytical methods for space logistics decision support | | | Technology for next-generation Earth observation satellites (MEXT) - ¥10B\* | | Axelspace | Monitoring CO2 emissions and absorptions by using satellite formation and passenger aircraft observation | | Synspective | On-orbit demonstration of high-resolution, wide-area, small SAR satellite using frequency-scanning SAR | | | Innovative satellite mission technology demonstration support (METI) - ¥12B\* | | Sarmony | DiskSat, an ultra-low altitude X-band SAR system that achieves low cost, high resolution, and wide observation width | | | Accelerate implementation of satellite data utilization systems - ¥17.6B\* | | Sumitomo Forestry | Sustainable peatland management system integrating satellite observation and field measurements | | Tokio Marine Resilience Co. | Integrated insurance and satellite solutions delivery model to strengthen disaster prevention infrastructure | | Archeda | Asia-focused platform for nature-based carbon credits | | Kokusai Kyogyo Co. | Using agentic AI to interpret variation factors in InSAR deformation maps | | Green Carbon | National emissions management system in Vietnam | | WESCO | Using multimodal AI to detect illegal/unauthorized embankments and assess landslide risk | | Remote Sensing Technology Center of Japan (RESTEC) | High resolution geospatial foundation model for government and public sectors | | Space Tech Accelerator | Asia-based sustainable sourcing platform | | OKI Electric Industry Co. | Next-generation infrastructure monitoring system through tight coupling of satellites and ground sensors | | LocationMind | Temporary transport demand forecasting and planning via GNSS and event information text analysis | | | Feasibility study for satellite bus for optical comms (MIC) - ¥0.4B\* | | NEC | Research and analysis for domestic production of optical communication terminal products | | Mitsubishi Electric | Study on improving competitiveness of networks and satellite buses used in geostationary orbit | | NICT | Feasibility sStudy for manufacturing of long wave optical communication terminals | | | Research, development, and demonstration of data relay services (MIC) - ¥23.5B\* | | Space Compass | Spatiotemporal network control and monitoring technology for multi-orbit Communications | | | Internationally competitive communications payloads (MIC) - ¥5.8B\* | | Mitsubishi Electric | Internationally competitive full digital communication payloads | | | Inter-terminal interconnection technologies for optical communications (MIC) - ¥3B\* | | Warpspace | Interconnection technology and optical comms simulation technology | | | Frequency sharing technologies for satellite to ground comms (MIC) - ¥11B\* | | Rakuten Mobile | Development and demonstration of dynamic spectrum sharing | | | *Satellite component supply chain development (supplemental solicitation)* | | Idemitsu Kosan | Mass production technology for CIGS solar cells | | Taiyo Wire Cloth | Low cost metal mesh for large deployable antennas | | Nanobridge Semiconductor | Low power FPGAs for space applications | | **探査等 Exploration** | **Awards** | | | *Foundational technologies for lunar infrastructure (MEXT) - ¥8B* | | Tohoku University | Foundational technologies for the construction of lunar infrastructure | | Ritsumeikan University | Survey and ground investigation technologies for lunar gase construction | | University of Tokyo | Flight model for water and metal element detection and measurement of lunar resource quantities | | | *High-frequency cargo recovery systems (MEXT) - ¥2.5B* | | ElevationSpace | High-Frequency material recovery services from LEO (ELS-RS) | | | *Enhancing use of vacuum exposure (MEXT) - ¥6.5B* | | Japan LEO Shachu | External (vacuum) platform with standard interfaces | | | *High-precision landing technology in the lunar polar regions (MEXT) - ¥20B* | | ispace | High-precision landing technology for lunar south pole and support for payload activities in the polar regions using a communications relay satellite | | | *Orbital data center construction technology (MEXT) - ¥13.5B* | | SpaceBlast | Build on-orbit data centers using high reliability edge computing | | **分野共通 Common Areas** | **Awards** | | | *SX-CRANE, a space-transfer and new industry seeds creation center - ¥11B* | | Tokyo Institute of Science | Develop environmental sensors and small payloads for future manned missions to Mars | | Tokyo Univ. of MarineScience and Technology | Develop next-generation positioning and navigation technology | | Yamagata Univ. | Innovative Space Gastronomy Technology Development Center (STAR-MEALS) | | Waseda Univ. | Space quality-of-life (QOL) R&D center for civilians living in space | | Tokyo Institute of Science | Space medical and habitat development center | | | *Solving environmental testing challenges for spacecraft - ¥23B* | | IMV Corp | Establish an environmental test facility for spacecraft | | High Energy Accelerator Research Organization (KEK) | Develop a proton beam for single-event evaluation | | Japan Atomic Energy Agency (JAEA) | Develop a spacecraft radiation test facility using the proton beam at J-PARC (a high intensity proton accelerator facility) | | Japan Atomic Energy Agency (JAEA) | Develop radiation test facilities at the JAEA Tokai Tandem Accelerator | | National Research and Development Agency (RIKEN) | Develop advanced semiconductor testing environment with heavy ion beam delivery system | | National Institutes for Quantum and Radiological Science and Technology (QST) | Establish infrastructure for space radiation testing using particle beam therapy equipment | | SEESE Corp. | Build a radiation testing facility | | | *SX Core Area Development Research "SX-ARK" - ¥10B* | | Thermal & Devices sub-topic | National Institute of Advanced Industrial Science and Technology (AIST)Waseda UniversityEhime UniversityOsaka UniversityNagoya Institute of TechnologyNagoya University (2)Hokkaido UniversityEnecoat Technologies Co.Okuma Diamond Device Co.Kioxia Co.Chemitox Co.Daikin Industries Co. | | Motion & Control sub-topic | National Institute of Advanced Industrial Science and Technology (AIST)National Astronomical ObservatoryKyushu UniversityKyoto UniversityKobe UniversityNagoya UniversityShimane UniversityUniversity of TokyoTokyo University of ScienceTohoku UniversityYokohama National UniversityNEC Space TechnologiesSanyo Chemical IndustriesNippon Kayaku Co.Hatta & Yamamoto Space Propulsion Device Mfg. Co.Patched ConicsFukoku Co. | ## Space Strategy Fund Year 3 Topics In a [recent information session](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=F1ULnBWMT0A&ref=japanearthobserver.com) \[YouTube\] (Japanese) JAXA announced that there will be 19 themes for Year 3 solicitations. In addition to the new solicitation topics, there are some other broad changes in the overall program for this third phase: - Newly allocated funding will be reduced to ¥200 billion (\~US $1.3 billion) in Year 3. - The number of new themes is being reduced to 19 - Increased emphasis on: - Adapting technology from other fields to the space sector - Accelerating process of moving new technology from development to demonstration - Accelerating private rocket launch capabilities - Integrate lessons from Years 1 and 2 - More support for international collaborations - Greater clarity on JAXA’s role - Potential for adding additional funding from other ministries after a successful stage-gate evaluation - JAXA is providing longer advance [notice of likely solicitation release dates](https://fund.jaxa.jp/content/uploads/yokoku20260313.pdf?ref=japanearthobserver.com) Below is a summary of the topics for which funding has been allocated by each of the three agencies: | Theme | Funding Agency | Budget | Approx. Duration | \# of Awards | | -------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- | -------------- | ------------- | ---------------- | ------------ | | **輸送 Transporation** | | | | | | Offshore launch system technology | MEXT | ¥9 billion | 6 years | 1 | | Thermal protection technology during atmospheric re-entry | MEXT | ¥9.5 billion | 5 years | 4 | | Accelerate commercial rocket launch | METI | ¥12 billion | 5 years | 2 | | Improve efficiency and functionality of rocket flight operations | METI | ¥5 billion | 5 years | 2 - 3 | | **衛星等 Satellites** | | | | | | Optical and quantum sensing technology for satellite use | MEXT | ¥15 billion | 6 years | 2 | | Innovative space systems using physics AI, etc. (for orbital servicing) | MEXT | ¥8 billion | 3 - 4 years | 2 - 5 | | Accelerating commercialization of space traffic management systems that contribute to ensuring autonomy (includes cybersecurity) | METI | ¥15 billion | 5 years | 4 | | Digital technology for satellite development and manufacturing processes | METI | ¥23 billion | 5 years | 3 | | Mechanisms for low cost, high frequency demonstrations of new technology in LEO | METI | ¥4.8 billion | 5 years | 1 | | Compact, lightweight, general purpose ground antennas to expand satellite communications use | MIC | ¥7 billion | 3 - 5 years | 2 - 3 | | Satellite security technology (technology to deal with jamming and interception) | MIC | ¥2.5 billion | 1 - 3 years | 1 - 2 | | Communication equipment for using Q, V, E, W bands. | MIC | ¥9.3 billion | 3 - 5 years | 1 - 2 | | Innovative satellite-mounted antennas for next-generation satellite communications | MIC | ¥6.3 billion | 3 - 5 years | 1 - 2 | | **探査等 Exploration** | | | | | | Technology promoting LEO usage | MEXT | ¥11.2 billion | 4 years | 4 - 6 | | LEO orbital re-boost technology | MEXT | ¥6 billion | 5 years | 1 | | Technology for utilizing space resources such as the moon and asteroids | MEXT | ¥9.5 billion | 5 years | 2 - 3 | | Ground station infrastructure to support communications between Earth and Moon | MIC | ¥5 billion | 3 - 5 years | 1 | | **分野共通 Common Areas** | | | | | | SX technology seed integration and human resource development center | MEXT | ¥11 billion | 5 years | 5 | | SX foundational development research\* | MEXT | ¥10 billion | 3 years | 20 - 40 | *\* “SX” refers to “sustainability transformation” or the alignment of goals with long-term societal sustainability* ## Some Observations Based on the various materials JAXA has made available, we can make a few observations. **Public, Transparent Process** JAXA has worked hard to describe each topic in depth with both online and in-person briefings during the spring and summer. Further, it has published selection criteria, results, and who sits on each selection committee. After each phase’s award announcements, JAXA has published compilations project summaries in English and Japanese - Phase 1 projects: \[[Japanese](https://fund.jaxa.jp/content/uploads/20251020%5F1st%5Fterm%5FPR%5Fsheets.pdf?ref=japanearthobserver.com)\] \[[English](https://fund.jaxa.jp/content/uploads/1st%5Fterm%5FPR%5Fsheets%5FEN.pdf?ref=japanearthobserver.com)\] - Phase 2 projects: \[[Japanese](https://fund.jaxa.jp/content/uploads/2nd%5Fterm%5FPR%5Fsheets.pdf?ref=japanearthobserver.com)\] \[[English](https://fund.jaxa.jp/content/uploads/2nd%5Fterm%5FPR%5Fsheets%5FEN.pdf?ref=japanearthobserver.com)\] Finally, it has proactively participated in dozens of public outreach events across the country. Transparency helps to build trust, and JAXA invests a lot of effort in this. **Geographic Diversity** Despite the concentration of firms and population in the Tokyo and Osaka/Kobe/Kyoto regions, there has been some effort to distribute the funds to organizations located across the country. ![03-ssf-geographic-diversity.png](https://storage.ghost.io/c/54/e9/54e9159b-1345-41dd-b7dd-180de33edc5b/content/images/2026/07/03-ssf-geographic-diversity.png) 72% of prefectures have an organization among the awardees in Phases 1 and 2\. Source: JAXA **Organizational DIversity** Lofting stuff into space and then operating it there tends to be among the most capital intensive activities humans engage in. Nonetheless, JAXA seems to be selecting small, mid-sized, and large organizations as well as organizations outside the conventional space sector. ![04-ssf-org-diversity.png](https://storage.ghost.io/c/54/e9/54e9159b-1345-41dd-b7dd-180de33edc5b/content/images/2026/07/04-ssf-org-diversity.png) Space Strategy Fund awards broken down by organization type. Source: JAXA **Collaboration is Rewarded** Many projects have multi-firm project teams, and a significant number have at least one university as part of the team. This is important because university spinoffs are a common source of new technology company formation in Japan, and having faculty and students contributing to advanced work aimed at commercialization will help engage the next generation of founders and startup leaders. **Middle Powers Unite!** While the Strategy Fund can only provide direct funding awards to domestic Japanese organizations, JAXA recognizes that many successful firms will need to seek customers and partners internationally. Part of its approach includes active outreach to international space agencies and potentially co-funding collaborations between Japanese firms and those in other countries. JAXA has set up a “Co-Funded Business Promotion Framework (CBPF)” and already has agreements in place with the UK Space Agency, France CNES, and the National Space Agency of Singapore. In addition, JAXA is working with its foreign counterparts to organize matchmaking opportunities as well as sponsoring exhibit booths at an array of international conferences and expos. ![05-ssf-cbpf.png](https://storage.ghost.io/c/54/e9/54e9159b-1345-41dd-b7dd-180de33edc5b/content/images/2026/07/05-ssf-cbpf.png) Funding structure for Co-Funded Business Promotion Framework (CBPF). Source: JAXA **Open to Feedback** The Strategy Fund is overseen by a Steering Committee that makes recommendations for changes. In January, JAXA published both the recommendations and their proposed actions. The January 2025 recommendations have already led to Year 2 improvements such as: - Improve transparency and outreach with a more proactive industry engagement process and announcement of solicitation dates at the beginning of the fiscal year. JAXA has clearly acted on this in the Year 2 process. - Set a broader array of themes - I don't see this in the themes, but JAXA is forecasting that they will make 140 awards in Year 2 (there were \~50 in Year 1). Many Year 2 awards have not yet been made, so the jury is out on this one - Improve international collaboration - This led directly to the new international cooperation and co-funding program described above - Strengthen government procurement coordination The [January 2026 Steering Committee recommendations](https://www8.cao.go.jp/space/comittee/dai121/siryou2-1.pdf?ref=japanearthobserver.com) have repeated some similar themes, including better government procurement communication and coordination, more support for securing overseas market access, and developing mechanisms to attract private capital. As Year 1 awardees are approaching their first formal “stage-gate” evaluations, the steering committee is also urging discipline in terms of terminating contracts that are not seeing results and concentrating funds on the most promising efforts. **Low Risk Tolerance** There are some exceptions, but the majority of the recipients are established firms, prominent research universities, or well-funded startups. The Space Strategy Fund has three key goals: 1) expand the domestic space market by supporting startups, innovation, and commercialization of space; 2) address societal challenges in energy, environment, agriculture, disaster management, and public health; and 3) pioneer science and technology frontiers. Bold innovation rarely arises in established, incumbent firms. Japan has suffered for decades from sclerotic science and technology development, and if it is going to increase the productivity of its economy while facing a declining population, it will have to make a lot of bold bets on young, fast-growing innovators. An anemic venture capital ecosystem means that the government is often a key source of funding for innovative startups. Growing the space ecosystem will require disruption of the status quo industry. Some will fail, but some will become the large companies of the future. The Strategy Fund awards thus far look like safe stewardship of public funds, but they also look like they are reinforcing the status quo industrial structure, rather than betting on potentially risky startups that will help pioneer the frontiers. **Hard Infrastructure Predominates** If we think about the space industry structure as including three layers - Infrastructure, Distribution, and Applications - most of the Fund’s investment in Years 1 and 2 is going to infrastructure: rockets, satellites, and the components and materials used to make them. Again, there are exceptions - Ocean Eyes, Umitron, Marble Visions, Pacific Consultants, Space Tech Accelerator in Year 1 and Archeda, WESCO, Tellus, Green Carbon, Preferred Networks, and Space Data in Year 2\. These all clearly fall into the Applications layer. However, funds for this type of work were all grouped under a single feasibility study theme in Year 1, and there are no themes or awards focused on building the Distribution platforms that often become the hubs around which high value applications are built. One of the Fund’s goals is “address societal challenges in energy, environment, agriculture, disaster management, and public health” and this is also getting short shrift in the selection of both themes and awards. Conventional wisdom is that Japan excels at “making things” (mono-tsukuri 物創り) and that is certainly true, but Japan also boasts an incredible track record for services innovation and a great deal of future societal value will be in Applications and Distribution. By short-changing these layers of the value chain, I believe the Space Strategy Fund is demonstrating an incomplete strategy. ## Making Good Bets is Hard I guess the elephant in the room is whether this type of industrial policy (essentially, subsidies for favored industries or products) actually works. There was a time in the 1990s and early 2000s when many economists would have argued that governments picking and choosing which industries or companies should be successful was not a good policy - after all, it seems like governments are rarely in a position to know on which companies it's worth placing bets. And there are plenty of examples of technology bets gone wrong - like Japan’s bet on 5th generation computers and advanced semiconductors - where governments made the wrong bet and tax dollars were squandered. But despite many free marketeers' insistence that industrial policy doesn’t work, the U.S. government’s support for electrifications, the internet, solar power cells, nuclear energy, satellites, GPS, rockets, electric cars, autonomous driving, and a slew of other technologies have unleashed waves of prosperity. As Noah Smith says [“for rich countries, technology policy *is* industrial policy.”](https://www.noahpinion.blog/p/updated-thoughts-on-industrial-policy?ref=japanearthobserver.com) This can be particularly important when it comes to major technological revolutions - the early decisions made around taxation, regulation, financial support, and competition usually have substantial long-term impact. Japan, South Korea, Taiwan, and China have generations of evidence that public investments in advanced technology can both succeed and result in the establishment of one or more national champions that become internationally competitive firms and industries. So Japan’s development of the Space Strategy Fund and Takaichi’s recent commitment to invest ¥370 trillion (\~US $2.3 trillion) across 17 strategic sectors through FY2040 is a return to a playbook that Japan has found successful in many contexts in the past. But there are a bunch of risks. ## What could go wrong? **How do you know when to stop investing in a particular direction or a specific firm?** Once the government picks a particular sub-industry it wants to support, ideally there would be multiple firms pursuing different ideas, and the government might be able to make multiple bets in the same domain. For example, there are now two established SAR constellations - **iQPS** and **Synspective** \- and a third under development by **IHI** in partnership with ICEYE. There are also multiple firms designing and manufacturing satellite bus components. But for re-entry capsule technology, there is really only one Japanese firm so far: **ElevationSpace**, so if the Japanese government wants to make a strategic investment in this technology, it may have only one firm that is a viable target for support. What happens when that firm stumbles or has failures? Do you continue supporting it or withdraw support? This is a very difficult judgement call, and it has to be one that JAXA has considered with its ongoing support for **ispace**. ispace’s lunar lander has had multiple failures as well as setbacks with its U.S. engine supplier and other partners. Most recently, it lost a contract with NASA under the CLPS program, due to delays. Should JAXA stop betting on ispace? Maybe. But it does not really have another lunar lander firm. **Will government-as-first-buyer slow or distort the development of a commercial market?** Space industry startups in every economy benefit from government agencies becoming the first and often most important customer. Aside from R&D grants and other support, the government customer has enabled countless firms to develop initial revenue, fund technical development, and begin growing. However, the government customer, particularly the defense and intelligence customer, is an idiosyncratic one that can easily distract a firm from pursuing relevant commercial opportunities. Aravind Ravichandran at Terrawatch has [written effectively on the “defense paradox”](https://newsletter.terrawatchspace.com/the-defense-paradox-in-earth-observation-the-enabler-and-the-hindrance/?ref=japanearthobserver.com), in which the government agency customers initially help startup space and EO firms grow, but because their procurement patterns are very different from the commercial sector, firms that rely on them risk learning the wrong lessons and investing in the wrong products and services. Government agencies tend to engage in open-ended, multi-year contracts, have high reliability requirements, require adherence to standards that may or may not be relevant, and often have security and sovereignty requirements that do not help a company win commercial customers. Defense and intelligence agencies, in particular, pay for capability and readiness, requiring satellites to be ready but potentially idle, while commercial customers will generally only want to pay for a specific location or insight that is directly relevant to their business and has a clear financial return. Commercial customers require a company to demonstrate value one customer at a time and one use case at a time. Winning these commercial customers requires a different mindset, different product delivery architectures, and different sales processes. Government contracts are a major source of revenue and startups with appropriate products naturally pursue them, but this shapes and reinforces assumptions and processes that will not generally support commercial success. Commercial companies that are aware of this potential pitfall can mitigate this effect by ensuring that both the satellite/ground segment architecture can support both commercial and government customers. But government agencies can also play a role. In *How Asia Works*, Joe Studwell outlines how Japan, Korea, Taiwan, and China have enforced “export discipline” on firms by requiring that they demonstrate foreign customer sales and purchase orders in order to continue to receive government subsidies. The Space Strategy Fund leadership clearly aims to support global sales and partnership efforts, but it will be interesting to see if they have the fortitude to impose this kind discipline on the firms they are subsidizing. **Will Japan’s subsidies be enough to create internationally competitive firms?** The Japanese government could make an accurate assessment of the potential for a Japanese startup to build a competitive enterprise in a key area, but if the combined government and private firm can’t or don’t move with sufficient speed, other overseas market entrants may jump ahead. And if they have raised more capital, they may be able to build bigger or move faster. **ElevationSpace** has had multiple successful demonstrations of its reentry capsules and has been successful at raising new capital and developing useful partnerships internationally. But there are now several companies seeking to develop orbital re-entry technology, including Varda’s Winnebago and Reditus Space’s ENOS. Reditus is at an early stage with only $7.1 million of seed funding, but Varda has already raised $329 million, with the most recent Series C round of $187 million. ElevationSpace successfully raised a $40 million Series C for a total of $63.5 million, less than 20% of Varda’s raise. But there are other firms developing point-to-point cargo delivery services - SpaceX Starfall, ATMOS Space Cargo, Inversion Space, Outpost Space - that have even deeper pockets. While point-to-point cargo delivery is a different service, it requires similar re-entry capabilities, so all of these firms will be building similar functionality while being able to return more weight to the ground. Can Japanese firms, however successful in their development phase, compete against U.S. and Chinese firms with much deeper capital resources? Having asked that question, though, I am not necessarily a believer in the “more capital is better” message. In general, I think constraints cultivate creativity. We’ve seen this play out in China’s AI ecosystem, where limited access to both financial capital and the most advanced chips has led to creative solutions that have rapidly caught up with the huge U.S. companies. Sometimes, plenty of cash prevents a company from making good decisions. **If a company demonstrates success, it could be acquired by an overseas rival** All of that subsidy, technology transfer, and hard-charging domestic entrepreneurship might succeed but then be targeted for acquisition by a better capitalized foreign rival. This could be a good thing. If the acquiring company continues to invest in domestic manufacturing and operations, using Japan as a base to expand operations across Asia, the infusion of additional capital and related technology could make it possible to grow and scale better than the Japanese company could have done on its own. That is what Nippon Steel promised in its acquisition of U.S. Steel and it seems to be playing out that way. That is the positive scenario. But it is also possible that the acquiring firm could suck up the technology and customers, and then shut down domestic operations and lay off the workers. These things are hard to predict, and it might be good for the Japanese government to have a say in the matter. In light of these risks, Japan has recently updated its Foreign Exchange and Foreign Trade Act (FEFTA) (外国為替及び外国貿易法 or 外為法, for short) to enable a more robust screening of foreign direct investments (FDI). This is similar to the Committee on Foreign Investment in the United States (CFIUS) and, indeed, the [new interagency framework has been dubbed “J-CIFIUS”](https://www.freshfields.com/en/our-thinking/campaigns/foreign-investment-monitor/japan-builds-its-cfius-broader-scope-deeper-scrutiny?ref=japanearthobserver.com) \[Fresh Fields\]. The new system will be able to scrutinize indirect acquisitions, have post-closing intervention powers, and the ability to consult across several agencies before making a decision. ![06-japan-cfius-overview-table.png](https://storage.ghost.io/c/54/e9/54e9159b-1345-41dd-b7dd-180de33edc5b/content/images/2026/07/06-japan-cfius-overview-table.png) Japan Foreign Investment Committee org chart. Source: LDP Given the current geopolitical context, this seems like a wise move, and I hope the new framework proves effective. However, it’s also worth pointing out that domestic acquisitions could also have negative consequences for related reasons. For example, Mitsubishi Electric (MELCO) just announced it is acquiring Infostellar, a Japanese ground station startup. That could make a lot of sense from a vertical integration perspective. MELCO, a long-time incumbent building complex satellites, gains a ground station infrastructure division. But “long-time incumbent” and “agile startup” are not always a synergistic combination. Large, legacy firms are often slower and less agile, and if MECO ends up controlling the domestic ground station market, it might be cushy for them, but not good for the international competitiveness of the Japanese satellite industry as a whole. **Will the workers be there?** Even if you pick the right industries and make the right investments, will Japan have the necessary entrepreneurs and workers to enable new firms to start and grow? There is reason to be concerned about Japan on this front. Japan has a highly literate population and it excels at primary, secondary, and tertiary education. However, not only is Japan in steep demographic decline with a rapidly declining cohort of young people, it has a poor track record of allowing defunct companies to go bust and enter bankruptcy or reorganization. So-called “zombie companies” soak up people and capital that could potentially be better applied to new endeavors. Zombie firms are those that carry debt equal to 9.5 times their monthly sales. By that definition, Japan had 210,000 such companies - about 14.3% of Japanese firms - in 2024\. So as many as one in six Japanese companies are struggling to sustain their operations due to losses and excessive debt. These firms could keep recycling their debt when interest rates were low (or negative), but interest rates are now rising, which may force more firms into bankruptcy or reorganization, and that may free up some employees. However, the other source of potential employees is immigrants. Japan needs more skilled immigrants - both entrepreneurs and technical staff - but the government is in the midst of increasing the legal barriers for both non-Japanese entrepreneurs and other workers who want to live in Japan, and this seems incredibly counterproductive. Japan faces a shortfall of 6.4 million workers by 2030\. AI, upskilling, and longer work careers are unlikely to make up this gap. Japan will need more immigrants, rather than fewer, and the new immigration crackdown is unlikely to be helpful. ## What could go right? Despite the many pitfalls, the Space Strategy Fund has demonstrated many attributes that will contribute to its success. - **Japan is not trying to do everything** \- JAXA and its partner agencies are selecting a few topics in which they see either a necessity or a strategic opportunity. They are pursuing technologies like rocket launch (sovereignty), high efficiency solar cells (opportunity), lunar exploration (opportunity), LEO manufacturing/re-entry (opportunity), and satellites (sovereignty). But they are *not* trying to build their own space station, super-heavy launch capacity, lunar base, or crewed launch capacity. In other words, they are looking for strategic advantage, rather than attempting to do everything. - **Diversity of firms** \- The SSF is selecting a broad array of firms - established/legacy firms, startups, manufacturers, services, and non-space firms with relevant ideas. - **Encouraging collaboration** \- The SSF is encouraging both domestic and international partnerships and is providing resources to make such collaborations possible. - **JAXA is working with external experts to select firms** \- The selection panels for each topic are made up of outside experts that combine the private sector and academic researchers. This won’t eliminate blind spots, but it will likely reduce them. This is a responsible approach, but there are also tradeoffs. It is probably less likely that a committee will award funds to bold, iconoclastic approaches that run against the status quo consensus. Finally, while the Space Strategy Fund is a key tool for promoting Japan’s priorities, JAXA and it’s partners continues to leverage a broad range of other industrial policy tools, including: - **DIverse funding programs** \- While the the Space Strategy Fund is a big gun, JAXA also uses a variety of other innovation and research funding programs, often in combination: - *K Program* \- The Cabinet Office (CAO) operates a Key and Advanced Technology R&D through Cross Community Collaboration Program (K Program). The Japan Science and Technology Agency (JST) and the New Energy and Industrial Technology Development Organization (NEDO) together manage a JPY 500 billion (\~ US$ 3.3 billion) fund aimed at research and development of key technologies critical for maintaining Japan’s global competitiveness. - *J-SPARC:* JAXA operates its own program called JAXA Space Innovation through PARtnership and Co-creation (J-SPARC), and, as the name implies, the emphasis is on partnership and co-creation. Commercial businesses are able to propose joint R&D ideas to JAXA, which, if approved, will bring human resources and funds to collaborate with business to demonstrate feasibility for a concept. - *JAXA-SMASH*: The JAXA-Small Satellite Rush Program (JAXA-SMASH) was launched in 2022 and is aimed at accelerating the entry and commercialization of small- and medium-sized businesses developing rockets for small satellite (<50kg) missions. Recipients have so far included BD Space, Space ONE, Interstellar, and Mitsui Bussan Aerospace. - *Public-Private Investment Funds:* Frontier Innovations Fund was established in 2024 as an independent commercial venture capital fund. JAXA is the “anchor” limited partner (LP) with additional LPs from financial institutions and institutional investors. Frontier Innovations operates the fund as a General Partner with a focus on seed and early-stage investments. - *Small Business Innovation Research (SBIR)* is an innovation funding program originally developed in the United States and has since been extended to most federal research agencies in the U.S. as well as inspiring similar programs around the world. Japan established its own SBIR program in 1999 to support innovative technology development in small businesses. It differs significantly from the U.S. SBIR program that inspired it. Rather than independent SBIR programs operated by each agency, Japan’s SBIR is an inter-ministerial program operated by the Cabinet Office and administered by the New Energy and Industrial Technology Development Organization (NEDO). SBIR awards have played a fairly significant role supporting Japan’s space program over the past several years, including awards to Astroscale for a debris inspection, ispace for the Mission 6 lunar lander, and Tenchijin for a land surface temperature feature for its COMPASS product. - *J-StarX SpaceTech Acceleration Program*: a joint initiative between JAXA, the Japan External Trade Organization (JETRO), and global aerospace accelerator Starburst. The initiative is designed to fast-track and scale Japanese space startups into global markets. It helps domestic commercial space companies expand internationally, with a primary focus on navigating the European space ecosystems in the UK and France. - **Regulatory reform** \- The Japanese government is good at generating both regulation and legislative reforms to ensure domestic industry can grow and adapt to changing conditions. - *Expanded licensing scope to cover test vehicles and dummy payloads* - *New licensing systems for reusable rockets and capsules* that return experimental results or materials from orbit to ensure safety and mitigate legal risks with return-to-earth missions - *Expansion of government indemnity* for launches whereby government compensates for losses that exceed commercial third-party insurance coverage. - *Mandatory post-mission satellite disposal measures* support integration of debris mitigation components like Bull’s membranes and Astroscale’s docking plates. - **Regulatory constraints on competition** \- Japan has never been shy about protecting its domestic industries from foreign competition when it’s in its strategic interest, particularly when industries are nascent and need room to grow. J-CFIUS (see above) is one example, but others include things like requiring special licenses or domestic domiciling in order to participate in programs. This is not unique to Japan and is a common mechanism for nurturing domestic industries until they reach a critical size to be internationally competitive. In order to be perceived as successful, the Space Strategy Fund will have to navigate a variety of shoals. It will have to (mostly) pick the right companies; it will have to help them succeed both domestically and internationally; it will have to avoid very large mistakes that would undermine public support; it will probably have to end projects that are not succeeding; and it will need to do this in a context in which the Takaichi government is trying to accomplish similar objectives across seventeen different technology domains. JAXA does not have control over all of these variables, so this will require courage and fortitude. --- If you’ve made it this far, thank you for reading. Please be in touch [via LinkedIn](https://www.linkedin.com/in/rcheetham/?ref=japanearthobserver.com) with any feedback, questions, comments, or requests for future topics. And if you have a friend or colleague that you think would enjoy JEO, please share it! Until next time, Robert --- Faraway fireworks making a noise, then nothing. – Kawahigashi Hekigodo (1873-1937) - translated by William Scott Wilson 遠花火 音して何も なかりけり *toohanabi* *oto shite nanimo* *nakarikeri* ### JEO 16 - News Roundup - 25 June 2026 URL: https://www.japanearthobserver.com/jeo-16-news-roundup-25-june-2026/ Last updated: 2026-06-26T00:00:40.000Z *Welcome to Japan Earth Observer (JEO), a monthly newsletter about the space, Earth observation and geospatial industries in Japan.* Topping this news roundup, JAXA’s H3 rocket has returned to flight, plus the usual funding and contract announcements. I owe an apology for a tardy newsletter. Wear-and-tear caused me to have to swap out my right knee for a new one, and the recovery has been more brutal than I expected. Due to the knee surgery, I won’t be in Japan for SPACETIDE in July, but I will be there in mid-August in order attend [FOSS4G Hiroshima 2026](https://2026.foss4g.org/en/?ref=japanearthobserver.com) as well as help organize a couple of additional events that I invite you to consider attending: - **Cloud Native Geospatial (CNG) Japan** \- *Mon, 24 August - Tokyo* \- a half-day community meetup in Tokyo with demos, conversation, and a social reception. If you or your colleagues are doing work related to CNG and open data - tool development, a production deployment, a work in progress, a tool, a workflow, or a hard-won lesson - please submit [a talk proposal](https://medium.com/radiant-earth-insights/call-for-speakers-cng-japan-2026-c5a0beac013d?ref=japanearthobserver.com). Talks can be given in English or Japanese. We're still finalizing a Tokyo venue — if you know of a good space for hosting an afternoon event like this, please let me know. - **STAC Japan Code Sprint and Workshops** \- *Tue 25 Aug - Thur 27 Aug - JAXA Tsukuba Space Center.* This second event is actually three-in-on. There will be a. The first day is a code sprint. Day 2 is a workshop for STAC producers and Day 3 is a workshop for STAC data users. [Advance registration](https://cloudnativegeo.org/events/stac-japan-2026/?ref=japanearthobserver.com) is required. These are going to be great events, and I'm looking forward to both connecting with friends and meeting new folks in the geospatial open source and open data community. On to the news… ## News & Announcements ### 🛰️ Technology and Infrastructure - **JAXA** successfully carried out a [return-to-flight launch of the H3 rocket from Tanegashima Space Center on 12 June](https://www.space.com/space-exploration/launches-spacecraft/japans-h3-rocket-bounces-back-from-failure-with-successful-return-to-flight-launch-carrying-6-satellites?ref=japanearthobserver.com) \[Space.com\]. This follows the results of an investigation into the failure of the second stage and loss of the Michibiki 5 navigation satellite in December. JAXA [determined that there was a flaw in the manufacturing process](https://www.theregister.com/2026/04/14/jaxa%5Frocket%5Ffailure%5Ffaulty%5Fadhesive/?ref=japanearthobserver.com) \[The Register\] of the satellite mounting structure. Excessive heat during the manufacturing process weakened the adhesive used to connect elements of structure. When the H3’s fairing separated from the payload, it caused the mounting structure components to delaminate and the heavy satellite payload to shift such that it damaged a fuel pipe for the second stage engine. WIth the damaged fuel pipe, the engine failed to generate sufficient thrust to reach orbit and the satellite fell off the mounting structure, tumbling back to Earth. The June test flight carried a dummy payload and six small satellites developed by universities and other organizations (STARS-X, BRO-19, VERTECS, HORN-L, HORN-R and PETREL). WIth a successful launch, JAXA will now be able to return to more regular flights, and the first one will be in early August. JAXA has several launches queued up for FY2026, including QZSS-7, HTV-X2 and HTV-X3 cargo ships to the ISS, the MMX mission to Mars, an Engineering Test Satellite (ETS-9 or Kiku-9), and a surveillance satellite in the IGS-Optical program (情報収集衛星). - *Why does this matter?* The H3 rocket was developed to fly more frequently at lower cost, and it’s critical that it return to regular flights. The overall launch industry is also very supply-constrained right now. The Ariane-6 does not fly frequently, and all of its launches for 2026 are booked with either ESA missions or Amazon Leo launches. SpaceX Starship is years behind schedule. After a record year of 165 launches in 2025, the SpaceX Falcon 9 is scaling back this year. ULA Vulcan and Blue Origin New Glenn have both recently had launch issues and are now paused while they undergo investigations. Rocket Lab Electrons are launching small sats, but the medium-lift Neutron has been delayed until at least late 2026\. ULA Atlas V is still launching, but there are only eight of them left until it is retired. The result is a fairly constrained launch capacity amidst increasing demand. ![01-jaxa-h3-6-pss-fix.png](https://storage.ghost.io/c/54/e9/54e9159b-1345-41dd-b7dd-180de33edc5b/content/images/2026/06/01-jaxa-h3-6-pss-fix.png) H3 flight 6 tested a fix for the payload support structure that caused the December flight failure. Source: JAXA - **JAXA** also successfully launched eight research payloads as part of JAXA's Innovative Satellite Technology Demonstration-4 (革新的衛星技術実証4号機) program on a Rocket Lab Electron. JAXA [selected ExoLaunch to provide launch services](https://satnews.com/2026/04/06/satellite-deployers-to-be-used-on-jaxa-small-satellite-mission-by-exolaunch/?ref=japanearthobserver.com) \[SatNews\] using ExoLaunch's EXOpod NOVA satellite deployer to insert into sun-synchronous orbits. Rocket Lab has dubbed the launch "Kakushin Rising", and it was [launched from Mahia, New Zealand](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=R933NMzP1T0&ref=japanearthobserver.com) \[YouTube\] to a 540 km circular orbit on 23 April. - *Why does this matter?* JAXA has usually launched these missions on the domestic Epsilon rocket series, but the new Epsilon S rocket has been delayed by multiple test failures, so JAXA has turned to Rocket Lab while Epsilon development continues. The eight satellites - MAGNARO-II, KOSEN-2R, WASEDA-SAT-ZERO-II, FSI-SAT2, OrigamiSat-2, Mono-Nikko, ARICA-2, and PRELUDE - have an array of purposes, from ocean monitoring to testing ultra-small multi-spectral cameras and a compact origami-inspired deployable antenna. They vary from 1U to 6U and 1 kg to 10 kg. ![02-jaxa-kakushin-satellite-packaging.png](https://storage.ghost.io/c/54/e9/54e9159b-1345-41dd-b7dd-180de33edc5b/content/images/2026/06/02-jaxa-kakushin-satellite-packaging.png) The eight satellites packaged into the EXOpod Nova units. Source: JAXA - **Weathernews (ウェザーニューズ)** is making available its [real-time vessel position and high-precision marine weather data in the SeaNavigator platform for free](https://jp.weathernews.com/news/55904/?ref=japanearthobserver.com) \[WeatherNews\] on an emergency, limited-period basis for Middle East waters due to the war in the Strait of Hormuz. The [temporarily free portal](https://sea.weathernews.com/?ref=japanearthobserver.com) provides: (1) live vessel location data sourced from Kpler's marine traffic feed; (2) global weather and ocean condition forecasts including wind, wave height, wave direction, and sea surface temperature at 1-hour intervals up to 5 days ahead, updated every 4 hours; and (3) pinpoint wave and wind forecasts for approximately 140 ports across the Persian Gulf, Red Sea, and western India at 48-hour, 5-day, and 7-day intervals. The free service targets ship captains and fleet operations managers needing to navigate Hormuz-specific hazards such as the Shamal wind and sudden squalls, as well as cargo owners and energy operators tracking potential LNG tanker and container ship arrival delays. The full paid version of SeaNavigator was launched commercially in October 2024 and upgraded with an AI engine in October 2025. ![03-weathernews-sea-navigator.jpg](https://storage.ghost.io/c/54/e9/54e9159b-1345-41dd-b7dd-180de33edc5b/content/images/2026/06/03-weathernews-sea-navigator.jpg) WeatherNews SeaNavigator product. Source: WeatherNews Inc. - **Astroscale** has released its concept of operations and target "client" satellites for its *ISSA-J1* servicing mission planned for 2027\. The mission is ground-breaking. It will mean approaching two "client" satellites -- ALOS and ADEOS-II -- operating in different orbits using a spiraling orbit toward each one in order to maintain a safe approach. These two satellites were both launched more than 20 years ago and are each almost 4 metric tons, 80-90 cubic meters, with 22-24 m solar panels attached. The ISSA-J1 inspection spacecraft is much smaller, about 650 kg, and quite agile, sporting 12 chemical and electric thrusters enabling it to make careful adjustments as it approaches the retired satellites. The ISSA-J1 mission is funded by an SBIR from the Ministry of Education, Culture, Sports, Science, and Technology (MEXT) and will be launched by an Indian NSIL Polar Satellite Launch Vehicle (PSLV) in spring 2027\. - *ALOS* was the first of four Advanced Land Observing Satellites (also known as *Daichi*) and launched in January 2006\. After a 5 year Earth observation mission that included surveys of the 2011 Tohoku earthquake and tsunami disaster, it abruptly shut down due to a loss of power. JAXA has speculated that an object struck its solar panels. \\ - The *ADEOS-II* satellite was launched in December 2002 with five primary instruments for observing water, sea surface, wind, ice, solar radiation, vegetation, and the atmosphere. It also abruptly lost power from its solar panel in October 2003, and the reason remains unclear. - The unexplained failures for these two large satellites make them ideal candidates for an inspection mission like ISSA-J1\. This mission will not deorbit the target satellites, but, if successful, it will potentially enable JAXA and Astroscale to plan future missions to do so. ![04-astroscale-con-ops.png](https://storage.ghost.io/c/54/e9/54e9159b-1345-41dd-b7dd-180de33edc5b/content/images/2026/06/04-astroscale-con-ops.png) Astroscale concept of operations for ISSA-J1 servicing mission. Source: Astroscale - **Astroscale** seems to be firing on all cylinders: - **Astroscale** has [opened another U.S. office in El Paso](https://www.astroscale-us.com/en/news/astroscale-u-s-expands-into-texas-space-ecosystem-in-collaboration-with-utep?ref=japanearthobserver.com) \[Astroscale\]. The U.S. headquarters in Denver was opened in 2019 and Astroscale also has outposts in Washington DC and Huntsville, Alabama. This new office is part of a collaboration with the University of Texas at El Paso (UTEP) and is supporte by an economic development agreement approved by the El Paso City Council. The Astroscale office will be located in the City of El Paso’s Innovation Factory near the El Paso International Airport. The UTEP Aerospace Center collaboration will include research on flight dynamics, autonomy, and space domain awareness. - **Astroscale UK** has [completed the critical design review (CDR) for two cubesats](https://www.astroscale.com/en/news/astroscale-uk-completes-critical-design-review-for-orpheus-mission-advancing?ref=japanearthobserver.com) \[Astroscale\] for the UK military under the Orpheus moniker. The US $ 7 million mission is being carried out under contract with the UK Defence Science and Technology Laboratory and involves flying a pair of near-identical spacecraft from British small sat manufacturer Open Cosmos in close formation for a year. The spacecraft will carry hyperspectral imagers for detecting and characterizing objects of interest. The cubesats will also study space weather. This mission is aimed at developing and testing new techniques for better space domain awareness as well as sensors for more deeply examining satellites and debris than would be possible with conventional optical cameras. ![05-astroscale-orpheus-mission-patch.png](https://storage.ghost.io/c/54/e9/54e9159b-1345-41dd-b7dd-180de33edc5b/content/images/2026/06/05-astroscale-orpheus-mission-patch.png) Orpheus mission patch. Source: Astroscale - **Dassai** sent a batch of rice into orbit on the HTV-X1 cargo ship launched to the ISS last fall. This rice was fermented into a batch of mash as part of an experiment on the Kibo module in November. The fermentation conditions simulated the one-sixth gravity of the moon and achieved a 12% alcohol content. After being returned to Earth in February, it was [turned into a single 100 ml bottle of sake](https://asia.nikkei.com/business/food-beverage/japanese-sake-made-in-space-fetches-nearly-700-000?ref=japanearthobserver.com) \[Nikkei Asia\] at the Dassai brewery in Yamaguchi prefecture, packaged in titanium, and sold for ¥ 110 million (\~US $700,000). The proceeds will apparently be donated to “support future space development initiatives in Japan.” ![06-dassai-mhi-sake-equipment.jpg](https://storage.ghost.io/c/54/e9/54e9159b-1345-41dd-b7dd-180de33edc5b/content/images/2026/06/06-dassai-mhi-sake-equipment.jpg) Mitsubishi Heavy Industries and Dassai jointly developed special brewing equipment for use in orbit on the ISS. Source: MHI/Dassai - **AstroX** is building infrastructure to support development and testing of its “Rockoon” concept of boosting a rocket to a stratospheric altitude before lighting the rocket engines. To that end: - AstroX has installed one of Japan’s largest [stratospheric environment test facilities (SETS)](https://astrox.jp/20260409%5Fsets/?ref=japanearthobserver.com) \[AsroX\] at its Minamisoma Mission Systems Lab factory in Fukushima Prefecture. The new test facility will enable ground testing the Control Motion Gyroscope (CGM) attitude-control hardware under simulated stratospheric conditions. - AstroX has also [completed a second radiosonde balloon release](https://astrox.jp/20260420%5Fradiosonde2nd/?ref=japanearthobserver.com) \[AstroX\] from the Shitaebashiwa test site, also from the Minamisoma facility. The two releases were aimed at testing a proprietary simulation software tool for predicting future balloon launch trajectories. - **Orbital Lasers** signed an [MOU with French InfiniteOrbits to develop in-orbit servicing capabilities](https://www.orbitallasers.com/2026/04/07/orbital-lasers%e3%80%81infinite-orbits%e3%81%a8%e3%83%ac%e3%83%bc%e3%82%b6%e3%83%bc%e3%81%ab%e3%82%88%e3%82%8b%e3%83%87%e3%82%bf%e3%83%b3%e3%83%96%e3%83%aa%e3%83%b3%e3%82%b0%e6%8a%80%e8%a1%93%e3%82%92/?ref=japanearthobserver.com) \[Orbital Lasers\] that could see Orbital Lasers’ detumbling technology mounted on InfiniteOrbits satellites for active orbital debris removal. This follows on the heels of a ¥3.02 billion (\~US $20 million) Series A funding round in March. - **Space Data Inc. (株式会社スペースデータ)** [released *CEPSim* (Custom Environment Physics Simulator) on GitHub as an open-source environment physics simulation framework](https://spacedata.jp/news/202604%5Fcepsim-release?ref=japanearthobserver.com). The tooling is built on Unreal Engine 5.5 and supports digital twin scenarios that require integration of physical law definitions via Python scripts. Use cases include disaster prevention simulation, urban/architectural design verification, research/education, and rapid prototyping. - **Space Shift (スペースシフト)** launched some new AI tooling: - [Ocean vessel, oil spill, new building construction, and change detection](https://www.spcsft.com/news/4534/?ref=japanearthobserver.com) using ESA’s Sentinel-1 C-band SAR data. - [Embankment Detection AI (盛土検知AI) identify regions with potential unauthorized or illegal land fill](https://www.spcsft.com/news/4484/?ref=japanearthobserver.com) (embankment / 盛土) activity by detecting surface changes, enabling municipal authorities to reduce field inspection targets and the burden of mandated five-year surveys under Japan's 2023 Embankment Regulation Act (盛土規制法). - [Idle Farmland Detection AI (遊休農地探索AI)](https://www.spcsft.com/news/4514/?ref=japanearthobserver.com) pilot conducted in collaboration with three municipalities in mountainous and fruit-growing regions on terrain types historically difficult for automated detection. The work involved collecting training data with municipal partners and iteratively improving the deep learning model to raise detection accuracy for idle agricultural land. - **T2**, the autonomous truck firm, is addressing the worsening logistics driver shortage (the so-called "2024 Problem") by conducting a series of tests and demonstrations this year. These tests are aimed at being able to support Level 4 autonomous truck driving in FY2027\. - **Unicharm,**, **Kyuso Distribution System (KRS)**, and **T2** will [transport pet care products](https://t2.auto/news/2026/0402.pdf?ref=japanearthobserver.com) along the approximately 500 km Kanto–Kansai highway corridor, with the autonomous driving segment covering roughly 430 km between the Tomei Expressway Atsugi IC (Kanagawa) and the Meishin Expressway Suita JCT (Osaka). Four trial runs are planned between April and November 2026. - **Sumitomo Chemical, Sumika Logistics**, and **T2** have [started the first commercial autonomous truck operations in the chemical industry](https://t2.auto/news/2026/0406.pdf?ref=japanearthobserver.com) with regular Level 2 autonomous truck runs on the approximately 520 km route from Sumitomo Chemical Group's logistics hub in Sodegaura City, Chiba to a relay hub in Osaka starting April 6, 2026\. The trucks carry synthetic resins and other chemical products. The semi-autonomous trucks utilize "Renewable Diesel," a next-generation diesel substitute capable of effectively eliminating 100% of CO₂ emissions on a lifecycle basis. The collaboration is positioned as a stepping stone toward T2's Level 4 autonomous freight service targeted for FY2027. - **T2** has [established two dedicated driver-switching hubs](https://t2.auto/news/2026/0424.pdf?ref=japanearthobserver.com) \- "TransGates" - to enable the transition between unmanned highway driving and manned surface-road driving that will be essential to its planned Level 4 autonomous truck service: T2 is the first logistics operator in Japan to establish such switching facilities. - **Seino Transportation** and **T2** have launched Japan's first application of autonomous trucks for "relay transport" (中継輸送) within less-than-truckload (LTL / 特別積合せ) long-haul freight operations in April. - **cosmobloom** has [completed development of LEAF (Lightweight Expandable Aerobraking Film), a de-orbit device for small satellites](https://spacemedia.jp/news/18545?ref=japanearthobserver.com) \[Space Media\] that deploys a large-area membrane structure (up to \~3.64 m²) from a compact 0.3U stowed volume to increase aerodynamic drag for orbital decay. The self-deploying design does not use any motors, improving simplicity and reliability. A on-orbit demonstration is planned for winter 2026. --- ### 💱 Contracts - **iQPS** has signed a [contract with Rocket Lab for three more Electron launches](https://spacedaily.com/sd-n-rocket-labs-iqps-deal-hits-15-missions-what-repeat-customers-tell-us-about-the-small-launch-market/?ref=japanearthobserver.com) \[SpaceDaily\] starting in 2028 for its SAR satellite constellation. Rocket Lab has already done seven launches for iQPS and had five more on its manifest before this latest award. With both SAR rival **Synspective** and **JAXA** launches also booking with Rocket Lab, it’s become Japan’s go-to launch vehicle. - **ispace** has [signed an MOU with Shimizu Corporation](https://ispace-inc.com/news-en/?p=8819&ref=japanearthobserver.com), an architecture, civil engineering and general contracting firm, to develop infrastructure plans for cislunar space and the lunar surface, including facility configurations, construction techniques, power and thermal management, and communications systems. Shimizu is already working on an inflatable lunar habitat concept with support from Japan’s Ministry of Land, Infrastructure, Transport and Tourism (MLIT)’s Stardust program. - **Kanematsu**, the Japanese trading company, has [inked a partnership agreement with Spanish smallsat firm, FOSSA Systems](https://spacedaily.com/sd-n-from-picosats-to-defense-contracts-how-a-spanish-startup-is-betting-its-future-on-japans-security-market/?ref=japanearthobserver.com) \[SatDaily\]. FOSSA began by successfully building and launching tiny 1U cubesats at low cost and has steadily moved to larger 3U and 6U satellites with more capabilities and longer lifespans. FOSSA has been accepted into NATO's Defence Innovation Accelerator for the North Atlantic (DIANA), and armed with this credibility and some success in Europe, it hopes to break into the Asia-Pacific defense market with a Japan office as its first outpost. FOSSA's satellites focus on maritime surveillance and signals intelligence. While the U.S. defense and intelligence marketplace is huge, there are several potential well-funded competitors and ITAR export regulations also add significant costs and complexity. Japan has committed to significantly higher defense spending, maritime defense is a high priority, and with a [Japanese trading company](https://www.japanearthobserver.com/jeo-8-japanese-trading-companies-and-orbital-real-estate/#japanese-trading-companies-and-orbital-real-estate) \[JEO\] partner like Kanematsu, Japan is open to procurement from allies. - A consortium that includes **Japan Meteorological Association**, **Asia Air Survey**, **Wind Energy Consulting**, **Kobe University**, **Tokyo University of Marine Science and Technology**, and **the National Institute of Advanced Industrial Science and Technology (AIST)** has been awarded a two-year ¥830 million (\~US $ 5.35 million) R&D contract by **NEDO** to [revise Japan's Offshore Wind Resource Map, known as NeoWins (NEDO Offshore Wind Information System)](https://www.nedo.go.jp/news/press/AA5%5F101928.html?ref=japanearthobserver.com) \[NEDO\]. NeoWins was originally published in 2017, and the revision will address new industry needs driven by the scaling-up of wind turbines size and an updated regulatory framework. The new NeoWins will incorporate 20 years of WRF (Weather Research and Forecasting Model) mesoscale simulations at 2.5 km resolution covering Japan's entire Exclusive Economic Zone (EEZ), plus additional 500 m resolution WRF runs for onshore areas. Once completed, the revised map is expected to significantly improve site-selection accuracy and business planning for offshore wind developers in Japan. - **SPACETIDE Foundation** has [signed an MOU with the US Geospatial Intelligence Foundation (USGIF)](https://spacetide.jp/en/news/4573/?ref=japanearthobserver.com) to cultivate collaboration in the space industry and geospatial intelligence sectors. USGIF hosts conferences, supports education and training, and develops new content and programs for the geospatial intelligence community in the United States. Working together, the two organizations will collaborate on conferences, PR, and encouraging innovation. - *What does this mean?* Both of these organizations have close ties to both civilian and defense/intelligence agencies of their respective national governments. Working together will help foster commercial and government relationships between the two countries. - **BULL** and **Fujitsu** have signed an MOU to [jointly develop a domestic, high-precision Space Situational Awareness (SSA) service](https://bull-space.com/pr/pr%5F20260421?ref=japanearthobserver.com) \[BULL\] for Earth-orbiting debris with the ultimate goal of developing a Space Traffic Management system. BULL will build the orbit analysis models, while Fujitsu will leverage its large-scale data processing and high-precision orbital analysis expertise it has been developing since the 1960s. - **IHI Aerospace** and ArianeGroup SAS [signed a cooperation agreement to jointly establish and operate a shared Space Situational Awareness (SSA) ground-based optical observatory](https://www.ihi.co.jp/ia/news/index.html?ref=japanearthobserver.com) \[IHI\] at IHI's Aioi plant in Hyogo Prefecture. The facility will have optical telescopes capable of observing space objects in both geostationary (GEO) and low Earth orbit (LEO), and the data will be independently utilized by each company. The new station will be the 16th optical observatory in ArianeGroup's "Helix" global SSA network. For IA, this agreement expands its existing SSA observation footprint into LEO coverage and advances its goal of commercializing observation data services and observation system exports. The signing ceremony was part of the Japan–France strategic space security collaboration. - **Japan LEO Shachu (株式会社日本低軌道社中)** was awarded a grant under the JAXA Space Strategy Fund (宇宙戦略基金) to [develop a space station module that can be used for exposing payloads to vacuum](https://japan-leo-shachu.com/112/?ref=japanearthobserver.com) while in-orbit. A similar capability is part of the Kibo research module on the ISS, and this project anticipates a similar need on either a future commercial space station or a flight of the HTV-XC cargo spacecraft. - **SKY Perfect JSAT (スカパーJSAT)** signed an [MOU with Forward Edge-AI to conduct a proof-of-concept (PoC) experiment applying Post-Quantum Cryptography (PQC)](https://www.skyperfectjsat.space/jp/news/20260427?ref=japanearthobserver.com) technology to satellite communications. The PoC will validate PQC-secured connectivity over a satellite link and then to evaluate communication quality including latency tolerance and stability with the “post-quantum” encryption processing. I wasn’t sure sure what “post-quantum cryptography” meant, so I read about it and it seems to be focused on creating a cryptographic standard that can hold up even against attacks that use quantum computing. The U.S. National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST) is apparently pushing PQC for next-generation communications infrastructure. - **Space Compass**, a joint venture of NTT and Sky Perfect JSAT, was selected for a Space Strategy Fund (宇宙戦略基金) [contract to commercialize inter-satellite laser optical links for data relay](https://space-compass.com/news/000089.html?ref=japanearthobserver.com) \[Space Compass\]. --- ### 💴 Equity Funding - **Asia Air Survey** (アジア航測株式会社) announced equity investments in: - [Zevero, a Singapore-based startup](https://www.ajiko.co.jp/news%5Fdetail/1769?ref=japanearthobserver.com) developing an AI-powered carbon management platform and consulting service. Zevero's platform automates Scope 1–3 greenhouse gas emissions data collection and calculation to support ESG disclosures, product design, and procurement strategy. Zevero alreday has enterprise customers in more than 20 countries. AAS plans to combine Zevero's sustainability platform and consulting services with its own geospatial information technologies and public-sector service expertise. - [Dronamics Global, a Dublin, Ireland developer and operator of uncrewed cargo aircraft and transport services](https://www.ajiko.co.jp/news%5Fdetail/1768?ref=japanearthobserver.com). AAS is the first Japanese investor, and Dronamics announced the establishment of a Japan subsidiary, Dronamics Japan. Dronamics' uncrewed aircraft "Black Swan" is designed for high payload capacity, long-range flight, and cost-efficient operations and has applicability in logistics and surveying. AAS technical support for expanding Dronamics' service reach, and to pursue work related to UAV-based resilience and disaster-response. - **Dynamic Map Platform (DMP)** has acquired **Likanos Co.** (株式会社リカノス), a [drone surveying specialist](https://www.dynamic-maps.co.jp/news/news-1530/?ref=japanearthobserver.com) \[DMP\] established in 2006\. This follows DMP’s acquisition of Nihonkai Sokuryo Sekkei Co., also a UAV photogrammetry and survey specialist. The Likanos acquisition signals a rollup strategy of regional survey companies as part of its "Modeling the Earth" vision to build a nationwide digital drone survey network. - **Asia Air Survey (アジア航測株式会社)** has taken an [equity investment in Dronamics Global](https://ssl4.eir-parts.net/doc/9233/tdnet/2792373/00.pdf?ref=japanearthobserver.com) (Dublin, Ireland; CEO: Svilen Rangelov), becoming the first Japanese investor in the company. Dronamics develops and operates unmanned cargo aircraft, including the "Black Swan" fixed-wing UAV, which offers high payload capacity, long-range flight, and cost efficiency for applications including logistics and aerial surveying. As a direct consequence of the investment, Dronamics also established a Japanese subsidiary, "Dronamics Japan Holdings".. ![07-dronamics-cargo-drones.jpg](https://storage.ghost.io/c/54/e9/54e9159b-1345-41dd-b7dd-180de33edc5b/content/images/2026/06/07-dronamics-cargo-drones.jpg) Dronamics cargo drones. Source: Dronamics --- ### 🔭 Science - **JAXA** and **Japan Space Systems (JSS)** are planning to [test transmission of solar power from low Earth orbit (LEO) to the Earth’s surface](https://asia.nikkei.com/business/science/japan-eyes-world-first-transmission-of-space-based-solar-power-to-earth?ref=japanearthobserver.com) \[Nikkei Asia\]. A satellite, dubbed *Ohisama* (お日様), carrying a 2m solar panel will be launched into a 450km orbit and will transmit energy via microwaves to a location in Saitama prefecture. The experiment will test the interaction of the ionosphere with the microwave energy. A 2023 experiment by the California Institute of Technology tested transmission of solar power via microwaves but did not attempt to actually extract electricity from the transmission. JAXA aims to be the first experiment to do so. In addition to providing solar power to the Earth’s surface, there is interest in using orbital solar arrays to power a lunar base at the south pole, where there is limited exposure to sunlight. JAXA plans to launch the test satellite via the SPACE ONE Kairos rocket. The longer term goal is to be able to generate one gigawatt from geostationary orbit by 2050 at a comparable cost to solar generation on the Earth’s surface. - **JAXA** and the **National Institute of Polar Research (NIPR)** reported that [Arctic winter sea-ice extent in 2026 set a new all-time record low since satellite observations began in 1979](https://global.jaxa.jp/press/2026/04/20260417-1%5Fe.html?ref=japanearthobserver.com) \[JAXA\], surpassing the previous record set in 2025\. The annual maximum Arctic sea-ice area reached only 13.76 million km² on 13 Mar, about 30,000 km² smaller than the 2025 record. This continues a long-term trend of declining by approximately 44,000 km² per year. Japan has some EO satellites that are particularly well-suited to evaluation of sea ice. These measurements are derived from the Advanced Microwave Scanning Radiometer 2 (AMSR2) aboard JAXA's Global Change Observation Mission–Water (GCOM-W / "Shizuku") satellite, as well as from AMSR3 aboard the recently launched GOSAT-GW ("Ibuki-GW") satellite. The latter satellite is still currently undergoing calibration/validation but is confirmed to provide data quality equivalent to AMSR2. ![08-jaxa-arctic-sea-ice-extent-02.png](https://storage.ghost.io/c/54/e9/54e9159b-1345-41dd-b7dd-180de33edc5b/content/images/2026/06/08-jaxa-arctic-sea-ice-extent-02.png) Arctic sea-ice extent from January 1 to May 31 for 1979–2026\. The 2026 extent is shown in an orange thick line (through March 18), the 2025 in a blue thick line, the 2012 in a black thick line, and other years as black thin lines. The 2010s (2011–2019) mean is indicated by the black dashed line. Here, sea-ice extent was calculated using a five-day average. Blue and orange circles indicate the sea-ice extent maximum in 2025 and 2026, respectively. Source: JAXA/NIPR --- ### 🗺️ International Collaborations - **JAXA** welcomed a [delegation from India’s **ISRO** to the Tanegashima](https://www.indiatoday.in/science/story/isro-jaxa-chandrayaan-5-lupex-mission-tanegashima-space-centre-moon-south-pole-launch-preparations-2028-india-japan-space-collaboration-2902164-2026-04-27?ref=japanearthobserver.com) launch site from which an H3 rocket will launch the LUPEX lunar mission (also called Chandrayaan-5). The technical teams have met regularly over the past year in order to coordinate their work. India is building the lander, while Japan is building a lunar rover. Instruments from ESA and NASA will also be on board. The mission expects to launch in 2028. - **JAXA** and **ESA** [signed a formal Memorandum of Cooperation to work together on the Rapid Apophis MIssion for Space Safety (Ramses)](https://www.esa.int/Space%5FSafety/Planetary%5FDefence/ESA%5Fand%5FJAXA%5Fteam%5Fup%5Fon%5Fplanetary%5Fdefence%5FRamses%5Fmission%5Fto%5Fasteroid%5FApophis?ref=japanearthobserver.com) \[ESA\]. The two agencies had previously announced the planned mission in 2024, but the formal memorandum commits them to funding and building the spacecraft. ESA will oversee the spacecraft manufacturing, led by OHB Italia as the prime contractor. Japan will contribute solar panels, an infrared imager, and launch aboard an H3 rocket. JAXA and ESA have several active collaborations, including EarthCARE cloud and aerosol mission, the BepiColombo mission to Mercury, and the Hera planetary defense mission to the Didymous binary asteroid system. The Ramses spacecraft will be launched in 2028 for rendezvous with the asteroid (99942) Apophis when it has a rare, close flyby of Earth in April 2029. - **ispace** and South Korean space robotics company **Unmanned Exploration Laboratory (UEL)** [signed a Payload Service Agreement (PSA) to transport UEL's SCARAB two-wheeled, 2-kg class micro-rover](https://ispace-inc.com/news-en/?p=8798&ref=japanearthobserver.com) to the lunar surface aboard ispace's new ULTRA lunar lander as part of Mission 3 (targeted for 2028). If successful, the mission will mark the first Korean-developed rover to operate on the Moon's surface. The SCARAB rover is designed to acquire image data during the lunar day, generate 3D imagery of the lander, and accommodate up to 200g of additional payloads via an internal bay. Mission 3 is funded through a Small Business Innovation Research (SBIR) grant from Japan's Ministry of Economy, Trade and Industry (METI). ![09-uel-lunar-rover.png](https://storage.ghost.io/c/54/e9/54e9159b-1345-41dd-b7dd-180de33edc5b/content/images/2026/06/09-uel-lunar-rover.png) UEL two-wheeled rover that will ride ispace ULTRA on Mission 3\. Source: UEL. --- ## 🎥 Videos **JAXA** - "Kakushin Rising" press conference \[[Japanese](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=uY6893VI-S0&ref=japanearthobserver.com)\] - “Kakushin Rising” launch by Rocket Lab from New Zealand \[[English](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=R933NMzP1T0&ref=japanearthobserver.com)\] --- ## 📝 Reports and Datasets - **Preferred Networks (PFN)** [released PLaMo-VL, a Vision-Language Model (VLM) purpose-built for drones, robots, surveillance cameras, and vehicles](https://www.preferred.jp/ja/news/pr20260403?ref=japanearthobserver.com). Developed under Japan's METI/NEDO GENIAC program, the release includes two model variants, both openly available on Hugging Face. These models enable on-device AI model execution for industrial inspection and geospatial monitoring scenarios without requiring cloud connectivity or high bandwidth connections. \[[Data on HuggingFace](https://huggingface.co/pfnet/plamo-2.1-2b-vl?ref=japanearthobserver.com)\] --- ## 📆 Asia-Pacific Conferences & Events This newsletter is mostly focused on Japan, but I also like to highlight events across the Asia-Pacific region. Some upcoming conferences in 2026 include: **June 2026** - [58th Fluid Dynamics Conference / 44th Aerospace Numerical Simulation Symposium (第58回流体力学講演会 /第44回航空宇宙数値ｼﾐｭﾚｰｼｮﾝ技術ｼﾝﾎﾟｼﾞｳﾑ)](https://branch.jsass.or.jp/aerocom/ryu/ryu58/?ref=japanearthobserver.com) \- 24 - 26 June - Tottori, Japan - [Aeromart Hyderabad](https://hyderabad.bciaerospace.com/?ref=japanearthobserver.com) \- 29 June - 1 July - Hyderabad, Telangana **July 2026** - [SPACETIDE 2026](https://events.spacetide.jp/event/Tide2026/summary?ref=japanearthobserver.com) \- 6 - 9 July - Tokyo, Japan - [IEEE Space 2026](https://ieeespace.org/?ref=japanearthobserver.com) \- 19 - 21 July - Bengaluru, India - [19th Australian Space Forum](https://australianspaceforum.com.au/?ref=japanearthobserver.com) \- 21 - 22 July - Adelaide, Australia - [26th ISAS Space Science Symposium](https://www.isas.jaxa.jp/researchers/symposium/spacescience/fy2026.html%20?ref=japanearthobserver.com) \- 23 Jul - 24 Jul - Sagamihara, Japan - [JSASS 68th Structural Strength Lecture Conference 2026](https://branch.jsass.or.jp/strcom/structures%5Fconference/sc68/?ref=japanearthobserver.com) \- 29 Jul - 30 Jul - Otsu, Japan **August 2026** - [23rd Annual Meeting of the Asia Oceania Geosciences Society (AOGS )](https://www.asiaoceania.org/aogs2026/?ref=japanearthobserver.com) \- 2 - 7 Aug - Fukuoka, Japan - [36th Astrodynamics Symposium](https://www.isas.jaxa.jp/researchers/symposium/dynamics/fy%5F2026.html?ref=japanearthobserver.com) \- 3 - 5 Aug - Sagamihara, Japan - [15th CanSat/CubeSat Leader Training Program (CLTP)](https://cltp.info/?ref=japanearthobserver.com) \- 18 - 28 Aug - Chiba, Japan - Cesium DevCon Japan - 19 Aug - Tokyo, Japan - [Cloud Native Geospatial (CNG) Forum](https://medium.com/radiant-earth-insights/call-for-speakers-cng-japan-2026-c5a0beac013d?ref=japanearthobserver.com) \- 24 Aug - Tokyo, Japan - [STAC Sprint and Workshop](https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSdOCRnAK6-%5FMeHK5FgWKizFcEbPMt-ZaWj8MldagWmYfVO9Pg/viewform?ref=japanearthobserver.com) \- 25 - 27 Aug - JAXA Tsukuba Space Center, Tsukuba, Ibaraki, Japan - [Misasa Deep Space Ground Station Open House](https://www.isas.jaxa.jp/home/great/special20260829.html?ref=japanearthobserver.com) \- 29 Aug - JAXA Usuda Deep Space Center - [FOSS4G Hiroshima](https://www.osgeo.jp/foss4g-2026-hiroshima?ref=japanearthobserver.com) \- 30 Aug - 5 September - Hiroshima, Japan **September 2026** - [Bengaluru Space Expo (BSX) 2026](https://www.spaceagenda.com/event/bengaluru-space-expo-bsx-2026/?ref=japanearthobserver.com) \- 7 - 9 Sep - Bengaluru, India - [UN/Republic of Korea Workshop on ISWI](https://www.spaceagenda.com/event/un-republic-of-korea-workshop-on-iswi-ai-enabled-space-weather-2026/?ref=japanearthobserver.com) \- AI-Enabled Space Weather 2026 - 7 - 11 Sep - Seoul, South Korea - [35th Congress of the International Council of the Aeronautical Sciences (ICAS)](https://icas2026.com/?ref=japanearthobserver.com) \- 13 - 18 Sep - Sydney, Australia - [25th Australian Space Research Conference (ASRC 2026)](https://www.spaceagenda.com/event/asrc-2026-25th-australian-space-research-conference/?ref=japanearthobserver.com) \- 29 Sep - 1 Oct - Adelaide, Australia --- I’d like to highlight one of the above listed events for 29 Aug. **JAXA** will hold a rare, special open house at the Misasa Deep Space Ground Station (美笹深宇宙探査用地上局) (part of the Usuda Deep Space Center) on 29 Aug. There will be morning and afternoon sessions, and you have to [sign up in advance](https://www.isas.jaxa.jp/home/great/special20260829.html?ref=japanearthobserver.com). But if you are one of the hundreds of people flying into Tokyo for FOSS4G in Hiroshima, it might be a fun excursion. ![10-misasa-deep-space-open-house.jpg](https://storage.ghost.io/c/54/e9/54e9159b-1345-41dd-b7dd-180de33edc5b/content/images/2026/06/10-misasa-deep-space-open-house.jpg) # --- If you’ve made it this far, thank you for reading. Please be in touch [via LinkedIn](https://www.linkedin.com/in/rcheetham/?ref=japanearthobserver.com) with any feedback, questions, comments, or requests for future topics. And if you have a friend or colleague that you think would enjoy JEO, please share it! Until next time, Robert --- Wake up, wake up! I want you for my companion, sleeping butterfly. –- Matsuo Bashō (1644–1694) - translated by Robert Hass 起きよ起きよ 我が友にせん ぬる蝶 *okiyo okiyo* *waga tomo ni sen* *nuru chō* ### JEO 15 - ArkEdge, VDES, and the Future of Maritime Safety URL: https://www.japanearthobserver.com/jeo-15-arkedge-vdes-and-the-future-of-maritime-safety/ Last updated: 2026-05-01T12:10:32.000Z *Welcome to Japan Earth Observer (JEO), a monthly newsletter about the space, Earth observation, and geospatial industries in Japan. ArkEdge Space recently launched a new satellite that forms part of a test constellation for maritime situational awareness. This anticipates the production rollout of a successor technology to the venerable and successful AIS communications system used for tracking and communication with ship. Read on to learn more.* # ArkEdge and Japan are Moving Beyond AIS **ArkEdge Space (アークエッジ・スペース)** successfully [deployed a demonstration maritime communications satellite, AE1a](https://arkedgespace.com/en/news/2026-03-31%5Fae1a?ref=japanearthobserver.com), on the SpaceX Transporter 16 rideshare mission launched on 30 March ([along with 118 other satellites!](https://payloadspace.com/transporter-16-sends-119-payloads-to-orbit/?ref=japanearthobserver.com) \[Payload\]). The new satellite is designed to operate as part of a three-satellite constellation to support demonstration of new technologies related to maritime communications and situational awareness. The other two satellites, AE1d and AEVa, were launched in January and June 2025, respectively. The satellites are testing features that include AIS signal collection, two-way communication, and antennas for the next generation of AIS, VHF Data Exchange System (VDES). ![01-ae1a-6u-satellite.png](https://storage.ghost.io/c/54/e9/54e9159b-1345-41dd-b7dd-180de33edc5b/content/images/2026/04/01-ae1a-6u-satellite.png) 6U AE1a satellite prior to launch. Source: ArkEdge Space AIS is an incredibly important example of shared data infrastructure that enables the global shipping system to operate more safely. AIS is used by more than 300,000 vessels for ship-to-ship and ship-to-shore communications and all passenger ships as well as most large ships have an AIS transponder that reports position, heading, and status information. However, the current AIS technology was developed in the mid-1990s and first mandated in 2000, so it’s a few decades old. Shipping volumes have grown substantially since then. The current VHF channels used by AIS have limited bandwidth, and while it can support two-way text messaging, its use is limited to text-only safety-critical and operational messages. In highly congested areas, like ports, channels, and straits, the system's capacity is often exceeded, increasing risks of collision. The International Maritime Organization (IMO) would like to enhance safety by expanding its use to more ships, but the current system cannot support this. In addition, AIS spoofing by vessels engaged in illegal or sanctioned activities has become more common. VDES is a major upgrade, offering wider coverage area with satellites, more bandwidth, and greater flexibility in terms of the types of data exchanged, including software updates, weather maps, ice maps, digital charts, and encrypted messaging through two sub-systems. VDE-TER is a sub-system for terrestrial ship-to-ship and ship-to-shore communications. VDE-SAT is a sub-system for satellite-to-ship transmissions. With bandwidth 32x greater than AIS, VDES will improve safety, help optimize maritime traffic (reducing emissions and fuel consumption), and will eventually enable uncrewed autonomous vessels to operate safely. The IMO will begin mandating VDES on all SOLAS-certified vessels (all passenger ships with more than 12 passengers and all cargo ships larger than 500 tons) by Jan 1, 2028 and then expanded to other ships in the following years. *What is SOLAS? SOLAS is the [International Convention for the Safety of Life at Sea](https://www.imo.org/en/about/conventions/pages/international-convention-for-the-safety-of-life-at-sea-%28solas%29,-1974.aspx?ref=japanearthobserver.com) \[IMO\], the primary international treaty governing merchant ship safety. It was originally adopted in 1914 following the Titanic disaster and has been continuously updated since then. SOLAS implementation and updates has been managed by the [International Maritime Organization since 1958](https://www.imo.org/en/about/historyofimo/pages/default.aspx?ref=japanearthobserver.com).* ![02-imo-solas-treaty-chapters.png](https://storage.ghost.io/c/54/e9/54e9159b-1345-41dd-b7dd-180de33edc5b/content/images/2026/04/02-imo-solas-treaty-chapters.png) Chapters of the SOLAS treaty. Source: IMO ArkEdge is testing the technologies that will enable it to provide global VDES coverage through a future constellation. Other companies are developing VDES satellite capabilities as well. Swedish firms AAC Clyde Space and Saab have been testing VDES transponders on the YMIR-1 satellite, and demonstrated two-way communications using VDES in 2024\. Danish firm Sternula has launched and tested the first MARIOT satellite (Sternula-1) supporting VDES in 2023 and has plans for a full constellation. Portuguese LusoSpace is building the 12-satellite LUSIADA constellation based on the EPIC-8U satellite bus developed by AAC Clyde Space. The first batch of four LUSIADA satellites (Camões, Agustina, Pessoa, and Saramago) was just launched on the same SpaceX Transporter-16 rocket as the ArkEdge AE1a. All four of the planned constellations are chasing a new VDES market that is expected to support at least three types of revenue: - **Data-as-a-Service** \- similar to the SpaceX Starlink and Amazon LEO services, the new constellations will be able to sell data communications subscriptions to shipping companies, port authorities, and logistics firms to support global, real-time, bi-directional data transmission. - **Safety-as-a-Service** \- national maritime agencies may opt to pay for sovereign coverages of their flagged ships in critical areas like the Arctic in order to support search-and-rescue and maritime safety operations. - **Satellite Infrastructure-as-a-Service** \- AAC Clyde Space is licensing its satellite bus technology to LusoSpace as well as leading development of the INFLECION satellites. As ICEYE and Planet Labs have found, the opportunity to manufacture and operate dedicated satellites on behalf of governments can be a significant market on its own. ![03-arkedge-vdes-maritime-concept.png](https://storage.ghost.io/c/54/e9/54e9159b-1345-41dd-b7dd-180de33edc5b/content/images/2026/04/03-arkedge-vdes-maritime-concept.png) ArkEdge’s VDES maritime services concept. Source: ArkEdge Space Developing a new capital-intensive technology can be a risky endeavor, and each of these four efforts should probably be characterized as public-private ventures. They have all benefited from industrial policy funding from their respective governments: - AE1a and its sister satellites have enjoyed funding support from two programs at New Energy and Industrial Technology Development Organization (NEDO) (国立研究開発法人新エネルギー・産業技術総合開発機構) as well as some JAXA funding. - LusoSpace has €15 Million of public funding from the Portugal Recovery and Resilience Plan (PRR) and is a major initiative of Project NewSpace Portugal, an effort to establish a domestic space industry ecosystem. - The AAC Clyde Space, ORBCOMM, and Saab (AOS) consortium received funding from the Swedish Transport Administration (Trafikverket) to support development of the first YMIR-1 demonstration satellite. The full constellation, called INFLECION, will also be developed by a consortium, but one based in the UK, rather than Sweden. The INFLECION satellites will be much more capable, including not only VDES communications but also signals intelligence and SAR imaging capabilities aimed at combatting smuggling and illegal fishing. INFLECION is being funded with €30 million from the UK Space Agency and ESA. - Sternula's MARIOT project received DKK 20 million (\~€2.6 million) from Innovation Fund Denmark to build the initial infrastructure and the first satellite (Sternula-1) as well as additional Danish channeled through ESA. This public funding is specifically earmarked for VDES deployment covering the Arctic. ArkEdge’s constellation is still in demonstration mode, and it remains to be seen how it will differentiate itself from the other three efforts, but the JAXA funding points toward the potential for integrating VDES capabilities with navigation and positioning functions. JAXA is funding an experiment to leverage higher precision positioning data via the new L6 signal on the QZSS (Michibiki) satellites to [test detection of tides, tsunamis and other sea disturbances via a network of buoys](https://www.gpsworld.com/arkedge-space-selected-for-qzss-utilization-demonstration-project/?ref=japanearthobserver.com) \[GPS World\] as well as a [feasibility study on development of a positioning constellation in low Earth orbit (LEO-PNT)](https://arkedgespace.com/en/news/2026-01-15%5Fleopnt?ref=japanearthobserver.com) \[ArkEdge\] that could augment the QZSS constellation. ArkEdge is also building out a constellation of imaging satellites that could potentially be integrated with additional services. ![04-arkedge-ais-signals.png](https://storage.ghost.io/c/54/e9/54e9159b-1345-41dd-b7dd-180de33edc5b/content/images/2026/04/04-arkedge-ais-signals.png) AIS signal reception data acquired by AE3Va. Source: ArkEdge Space --- If you’ve made it this far, thank you for reading. Please be in touch [via LinkedIn](https://www.linkedin.com/in/rcheetham/?ref=japanearthobserver.com) with any feedback, questions, comments, or requests for future topics. And if you have a friend or colleague that you think would enjoy JEO, please share it! Until next time, Robert --- Spring rain: walking and talking together with two umbrellas. – Yosa Buson (1716–1784) - translated by William Scott Wilson 春雨や ものがたり行く 傘二つ *harusame ya* *monogatari yuku* *kasa futatsu* ### JEO 14 - News Roundup - 27 April 2026 URL: https://www.japanearthobserver.com/jeo-14-news-roundup-27-april-2026/ Last updated: 2026-04-27T21:11:05.000Z *Welcome to Japan Earth Observer (JEO), a free monthly newsletter with a news roundup and one in-depth article about the space, Earth observation and geospatial industries in Japan.* In this news roundup, new satellites and technology demos, ispace strategy changes, plus the usual funding and contract announcements. There are also a couple of new sections with notable videos, reports, and datasets. On to the news… ## News & Announcements ### 🛰️ Technology and Infrastructure - **Astroscale France** has [joined an ESA-funded electromagnetic tether project](https://satnews.com/2026/03/10/astroscale-france-joins-esa-eco-tethers-project-to-mature-propellant-free-deorbiting-technology/?ref=japanearthobserver.com) \[SatNews\]. The 12-month study is led by PERSEI Space, and it aims to validate so-called "electrodynamic tether" solutions as a mechanism for both moving satellites in orbit and de-orbiting satellites without using propellant. The team also includes Thales Alenia Space Italy. The tether concept would extend a long conductive tether that interacts with the Earth's ionosphere and magnetic field to create "[Lorentz force drag](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Lorentz%5Fforce?ref=japanearthobserver.com)" that can either enable a change in orbital plane or deorbit a satellite. A servicing satellite using such a mechanism could move between targets without depleting its fuel. - **Astroscale Japan** unveiled [ISSA-J1, a new on-orbit inspection mission that will approach and image two Japanese satellite debris objects in different orbits](https://www.astroscale.com/ja/news/a-new-chapter-in-on-orbit-inspection-two-clients-in-a-single-mission?ref=japanearthobserver.com) \[Astroscale\] within a single mission, a first for a private company. The satellite is currently in the assembly phase, with launch planned for 2027\. The project will be funded by Japan's Ministry of Education, Culture, Sports, Science and Technology (MEXT) Phase 3 Small Business Innovation Research (SBIR). - **AstroX**, the Fukushima developer of a balloon-launched orbital rocket concept called “Rockoon” [successfully tested its attitude control technology](https://astrox.jp/20260214%5Fkogitsunekuchu/?ref=japanearthobserver.com) with a test rig simulating suspension from a balloon. The Rockoon concept aims to reduce the weight, cost, and preparation time to launch a payload to orbit by launching the rocket while suspended from a high altitude balloon. The test suspended a small Kogitsune rocket from a test rig at the Idagawa Experimental Site in Minamisoma City, Fukushima Prefecture. The test focused on the CMG (Control Momentum Gyro) attitude control system that will ensure control under high wind or other unstable conditions. ![01-astrox-rockoon-test.png](https://storage.ghost.io/c/54/e9/54e9159b-1345-41dd-b7dd-180de33edc5b/content/images/2026/04/01-astrox-rockoon-test.png) AstroX test rig at Idagawa Experimental Site. Source: AstroX - **Synspective's** eighth [Strix SAR satellite was launched on a RocketLab Electron](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=WKE08UfCMYU&ref=japanearthobserver.com) \[YouTube\] from New Zealand on 21 March 7:10a (20 March, 2:10p ET). This launch will be followed by 19 more over the next few years, completing Synspective's planned 27-satellite constellation by 2029\. The mission, called “Eight Days a Week” placed the 100kg Strix satellite into a sun-synchronous orbit of 573 km and 50.2° inclination. - **ArkEdge Space** (アークエッジ・スペース) successfully [deployed a demonstration maritime communications satellite, AE1a](https://arkedgespace.com/en/news/2026-03-31%5Fae1a?ref=japanearthobserver.com) \[ArkEdge\], on the SpaceX Transporter 16 rideshare mission launched on 30 March. The new satellite is designed to operate as part of a three-satellite constellation to support demonstration of new technologies related to maritime communications and situational awareness. The other two satellites, AE1d and AEVa, were launched in January and June 2025, respectively. The satellites are testing features that include AIS signal collection, two-way communication, and antennas for the next generation of AIS, VHF Data Exchange System (VDES). - *Why does this matter?* AIS is used by more than 300,000 vessels for ship-to-ship and ship-to-shore communications and most large ships have an AIS transponder that reports position, heading, and status information. However, the AIS bandwidth is limited and while it can support two-way text messaging, its use is limited to safety-critical and operational messages. In highly congested areas, like ports, channels, and straits, the system's capacity is often exceeded, increasing risks of collision. VDES is a major upgrade, offering wider coverage area with satellites, more bandwidth, and greater flexibility in terms of the types of data exchanged, including software updates, weather maps, ice maps, digital charts, and encrypted messaging. VDES will improve safety, help optimize maritime traffic (reducing emissions and fuel consumption), and will eventually enable uncrewed autonomous vessels to operate safely. VDES is currently expected to be required on all SOLAS-certified vessels (all passenger ships with more than 12 passengers and all cargo ships larger than 500 tons) by Jan 1, 2028 and then expanded to other ships in the following years. This will be a whole new marketplace for ArkEdge and the other firms racing to launch VDES constellations. - **JAXA** confirmed the [successful on-orbit demonstration of the H-SSOD](https://global.jaxa.jp/press/2026/03/20260312-1%5Fe.html?ref=japanearthobserver.com) \[JAXA\] (HTV-X Small Satellite Orbital Deployer) and the deployment of **Nihon University's** small satellite "Tenkoh-2" (てんこう2) from the HTV-X1 on 11 March. This was the first technology demonstration mission conducted during HTV-X1's approximately three-month post-ISS-departure phase. Integration support for the mission was provided by **Space BD**. This successful deployment validates HTV-X's new role as a technology demonstration platform beyond its primary cargo resupply function, opening a new commercial small satellite deployment service utilizing HTV-X's autonomous flight capability. - **JAXA** also announced that the 6-satellite FY2025 deployment from the ISS Kibo module’s J-SSOD (JEM Small Satellite Deployer) was also completed in February. The J-SSOD is an attachment to the Kibo module that can spit out experimental cubesats. The most recent set included experiments from Gifu High School/University, Shizuoka University, LehmanSatSpaces, Kyushu Institute of Technology, an ESA consortium, and a Hokkaido University consortium. To date, [JAXA has launched 105 satellites from the J-SSOD since 2012](https://humans-in-space.jaxa.jp/kibouser/provide/j-ssod/72631.html?ref=japanearthobserver.com) \[JAXA\]. Like the H-SSOD, integration services are [provided by Space BD](https://www.space-bd.com/ja/news/news20260326-001.html?ref=japanearthobserver.com). - **ElevationSpace** has [signed an MOU with Redwire](https://elevation-space.com/posts/news%5F20260326?ref=japanearthobserver.com) \[ElevationSpace\] to explore integrating Redwire's microgravity and biopharmaceutical hardware into ElevationSpace's in-orbit demonstration and return platform. Under the agreement, both companies will share payload experiment interfaces, jointly identify research experiments suitable for ElevationSpace's recovery platform, and increase cross-industry collaboration in the biopharmaceutical sector. - **iQPS** (QPS研究所) announced the launch of a joint demonstration with **Nittoc Construction** (日特建設株式会社) to [verify the use of QPS-SAR satellite data for monitoring displacement of cut slopes and embankment faces](https://i-qps.net/news/3543/?ref=japanearthobserver.com) (法面). Japan faces a growing infrastructure management challenge as aging slopes exhibit internal voids and soil erosion that cannot be detected through visual inspection alone, while budget constraints, personnel shortages, and secondary disaster risks limit conventional on-site surveys. The demonstration uses small trihedral corner reflectors (60 cm per side) installed on an embankment slope at Nittoc's "NITTOC Test Field" in Bando, Ibaraki Prefecture. - **ispace** made a series of significant announcements on 27 March - ispace [published the findings of the independent External Review Task Force](https://ispace-inc.com/news-en/?p=8715&ref=japanearthobserver.com) convened following the failed landing of its RESILIENCE lunar lander during HAKUTO-R Mission 2 on 6 June last year. The Task Force was led by co-chairs Prof. Olivier L. de Weck (MIT Apollo Program Memorial Professor) and Prof. Naohiko Kotake (Keio University/Stanford) and included input from experts at NASA, JAXA, ESA, and Draper Laboratory. The task force applied the CAST (Causal Analysis based on Systems Theory) methodology to conduct a systemic analysis beyond the initial identification of the laser rangefinder as the hardware cause. The review produced seven recommendations across three levels — operations, system development, and management decision-making. In response, ispace announced specific implementation measures including the full integration of JAXA's SLIM TRN expertise (leveraging ispace's selection under Japan's Space Strategy Fund Second Phase for "High-Precision Landing Technology in the Lunar Poles"), expansion of its Flight Operations unit into a combined Test and Flight Operations unit, and establishment of a new Technical Risk Assessment Committee for independent mission-level risk oversight. - In part 2 of the 27 March news conference, ispace also announced the [consolidation of its two parallel lunar lander development programs](https://ispace-inc.com/news-en/?p=8718&ref=japanearthobserver.com) — the APEX 1.0 (ispace U.S.) and Series 3 (ispace Japan) — into a new unified lander model called ULTRA, incorporating an alternative engine. This decision came after Agile Space Industries' VoidRunner engine failed to meet performance specification and the delays threatened the viability of the APEX 1.0 lander mission. The replacement engine (which was not announced) apparently has a proven track record in prior lunar missions. As a result, ispace-U.S.'s first mission (formerly Mission 3 under NASA's CLPS Task Order CP-12 as part of Team Draper) has been rescheduled from 2027 to 2030 (pending NASA approval). So the next ispace lunar landing (Japan-led, METI SBIR-funded) is renumbered Mission 3 and is aiming for a 2028 launch; the Space Strategy Fund-backed high-precision polar landing mission is renumbered Mission 4 for 2029; and the former U.S. Mission 3 becomes Mission 5 for 2030\. A new "Mission 2.5" has been added — a lunar orbit satellite launch targeting as early as 2027 in partnership with U.S.-based Argo Space Corp. - Organizationally, ispace will consolidate pre-manufacturing development groups under a single global unit reporting directly to CTO Ujiie Ryo, but will maintain separate AIT (Assembly, Integration and Testing) capabilities in both Japan and the U.S. in order to o preserve regional customer flexibility. - ispace also announced the [launch of its "Lunar Connect Service," a new commercial initiative to build a lunar-orbiting satellite network](https://ispace-inc.com/news-en/?p=8731&ref=japanearthobserver.com) to provide communications, positioning, observation, and Space Situational Awareness (SSA) services to cislunar economy stakeholders. The company plans to deploy at least five lunar orbiting satellites by 2030, with the first satellite targeted for lunar orbit insertion as early as 2027 (designated Mission 2.5) via an agreement with U.S.-based Argo Space Corp. for transportation. ispace has also entered into an agreement with KDDI to jointly develop ground station that support the planned service offering. The Lunar Connect Service will comply with NASA/ESA/JAXA's LunaNet international lunar communications and positioning standards to ensure interoperability with multinational constellation initiatives. ![02-ispace-revised-milestones.png](https://storage.ghost.io/c/54/e9/54e9159b-1345-41dd-b7dd-180de33edc5b/content/images/2026/04/02-ispace-revised-milestones.png) Revised ispace lunar lander milestone schedule. Source: ispace - **Japan LEO Shachu**, a public private venture backed by MHI and Mitsubishi Electric, [completed the System Definition Review (SDR)](https://japan-leo-shachu.com/104/?ref=japanearthobserver.com) \[Japan LEO Shachu\] for both an Japanese Low Earth Orbit (LEO) module for a future space station and a future version of the HTV-X cargo vessel called HTV-XC. The SDR process validates overall system design philosophy, key specifications, system architecture, interface definitions, and verification approaches against mission requirements. With the SDR complete, the next step will be the Preliminary Design Phase, in which each subsystem's basic design will be refined and key interfaces, functions, and performance specifications will be finalized. - *Why does this matter?* This work is aimed at enabling Japan to play a key role in a future low-Earth orbit economic zone centered on commercial space stations after the ISS de-orbited. - **Ocean Eyes** is [rolling out two new paid premium features for its OEView](https://oceaneyes.co.jp/archives/5665?ref=japanearthobserver.com) \[Ocean Eyes\] marine conditions app. "Bigeye Tuna Map" (メバチマグロマップ) highlights sea areas with high fish aggregation potential, and "Hazard Map" (危険度マップ), displays dangerous or high-risk sea areas on a map based on wind, wave, and ocean current data, providing safety-first navigation support for fishers before departure. ![03-ocean-eyes-tuna-and-hazards.png](https://storage.ghost.io/c/54/e9/54e9159b-1345-41dd-b7dd-180de33edc5b/content/images/2026/04/03-ocean-eyes-tuna-and-hazards.png) Screensshots of new tuna hunting and hazard mapping features. Source: Ocean Eyes - **Sakana AI** [wrapped up a research project](https://sakana.ai/atla-contract-2026/?ref=japanearthobserver.com) \[Sakana AI\] for Japan's Acquisition, Technology and Logistics Agency (ATLA) Defense Innovation Research Institute focused on developing an integrated AI system capable of processing large volumes of multimodal data generated across land, sea, and air domains, including drones. A key technical deliverable was a Small Visual Language Model (SVLM) optimized for high-speed operation on edge devices with limited compute capacity (like drones or mobile terminals) enabling rapid autonomous situational awareness and information organization in the field. - *Why does this matter?* Sakana AI is one of Japan’s AI leaders. While it might be considered a frontier AI model research lab, it operates on a much smaller scale than Open AI, Anthropic, and Google, and has focused on developing specific applications of AI to industry. This contract marks a significant expansion of Sakana AI's defense and intelligence vertical, which the company has identified alongside financial services as a priority sector. A dedicated domestic defense team has been assembled to implement the company's cutting-edge AI research in operational defense contexts. - Japan's **Ministry of Defense (JMoD) (防衛庁)** formally stood up the [Japan Air Self-Defense Force's new "Space Operations Corps" (宇宙作戦団)](https://space-connect.jp/uchu-sakusendan/?ref=japanearthobserver.com) at Fuchu Air Base on 28 March 28, upgrading the former Space Operations Group in a ceremony. The new Corps has more than doubled in size from 310 to 670 personnel and it now focuses on Space Domain Awareness (SDA), including collision avoidance with debris, tracking of suspicious satellites, and assessment of adversarial counter-space capabilities. Another reorganization is planned for FY2026, which will rename the Air Self-Defense Force (JASDF) as the "Aerospace Self-Defense Force" (航空宇宙自衛隊) and establish a new "Space Operations Command" (宇宙作戦集団). - *Why does this matter?* This is more than a name upgrade. WIth potential adversaries like Russia and China demonstrating more aggressive behavior by by naval, air, and space forcees, Japan’s moves to upgrade the importance of its space-related defense functions mirrors similar moves across all of the advanced democracies with space defense resources. ### 💱 Contracts - **Astroscale UK** has contracted a launch vehicle for its ELSA-M spacecraft that will deorbit a OneWeb satellite. And the winner is... Isar Aerospace. Isar is a curious choice as the first launch of their Spectrum rocket in March 2025 failed 30 seconds into the flight. They are gearing up for their second Spectrum launch, but attempts in March and April were both scrubbed and the next attempt has been delayed until at least May. I imagine Isar will need some time to fully demonstrate launch capability to LEO. However, Isar has developed a highly automated manufacturing process and once it can nail the launch, it will likely be able to scale up quickly. Astroscale is a global leader in the rendezvous proximity operations (RPO) necessary to approach and deorbit dead satellites, rocket parts, and other debris. For the ELSA-M mission the Astroscale spacecraft will attempt to approach, dock, de-orbit, and release a defunct Eutelsat OneWeb satellite as part of a broader effort to reduce debris in low Earth orbit (LEO). The UK Space Agency and ESA are funding part of the mission, but Astroscale is putting up much of the funding necessary to support it. ![04-andoya-spaceport-launchpad-a.jpg](https://storage.ghost.io/c/54/e9/54e9159b-1345-41dd-b7dd-180de33edc5b/content/images/2026/04/04-andoya-spaceport-launchpad-a.jpg) Andøya Spaceport, Norway. Source: Andøya Space - **Astroscale** has signed an MOU with Sumitomo Mitsui Finance and Lease (SMFL) and its subsidiary SMFL Mirai Partners to [explore the development of a satellite leasing and secondary-use market](https://www.smfl.co.jp/english/news/assets/260220%5FE.pdf?ref=japanearthobserver.com) \[SMFL\]. SMFL and Astroscale aim to combine satellite leasing with on-orbit servicing – debris removal, inspection, life extension/refueling, and in-orbit manufacturing/repair – to develop joint service offerings that would reduce barriers to entry for new space industry participants. - **Synspective** has signed a [data distribution agreement with NSG UP42](https://synspective.com/press-release/2026/nsg%5Fup42/%20?ref=japanearthobserver.com), Saudi Arabia’s leading commercial space services provider. This will provide expanded access to new market for Synspective’s SAR data. **ispace** recently announced a new Saudi subsidiary as well. - **Space Compass** has signed an [agreement with Swissto12 to provide a small geostationary satellite based on its HummingSat platform](https://asia.nikkei.com/business/telecommunication/new-japanese-satellite-effort-to-use-light-for-faster-communication%20?ref=japanearthobserver.com) that will serve as a hub for a new optical data satellite communications service. Space Compass is a joint venture of NTT and Sky Perfect JSAT aimed at making the new optical network available by 2030\. Weather and other EO satellites in LEO would use the geostationary satellites as a relay for transmitting data to the ground far more rapidly than they could by using radio signals directly to the ground. - **Axelspace** is involved in three consortia that have been selected for Space Strategy Fund (宇宙戦略基金) projects: - Under the "Technology to Enhance Observational Capabilities for Next-Generation Earth Observation Satellites" (次世代地球観測衛星に向けた観測機能高度化技術); Axelspace will [advance sensor and imaging technology development for future generations](https://www.axelspace.com/ja/news/spacestrategyfund%5Fco2/?ref=japanearthobserver.com) \[Axelspace\] of its small EO satellite constellation. The project will focus on CO2 emissions and absorption monitoring using satellites and passenger aircraft. The other team members include **Myojo Electric, ANA Holdings**, and **JIJ Corporation**. - A consortium led by **RESTEC** and including **Axelspace**, **PASCO**, **New Space Intelligence (NSI)**, and **Synspective** was [selected under the topic "Implementation Acceleration of Satellite Data Utilization Systems"](https://www.axelspace.com/ja/news/spacestrategyfund%5Fsatellitedata/?ref=japanearthobserver.com) (衛星データ利用システム実装加速化事業). Axelspace’s part of the work will focus on calibration, validation, and correction methodologies for optical sensors (see RESTEC note below for more on the project). - A four-organization consortium led by **Cross U** (クロスユー) and including **Axelspace**, **Double Feather Partners**, and **ENKOPA Lab** was selected for a project [supporting innovative financial mechanisms](https://www.axelspace.com/ja/news/spacestrategyfund%5Fafrica/?ref=japanearthobserver.com) (衛星データ×金融スキーム) to address social challenges in African nations. This marks a strategic expansion of Axelspace's existing Africa-oriented satellite data business. - **RESTEC** landed two Space Strategy Fund awards: - Develop and deploy [new methodologies for evaluation, calibration, validation, and correction (Cal/Val) of domestic small EO satellites](https://www.restec.or.jp/notice/notice%5Fyear%5F2026/20260319.html?ref=japanearthobserver.com). RESTEC will lead a consortium that includes **PASCO**, **New Space Intelligence (NSI),** **AxelSpace**, and **Synspective**. The work will address inter-satellite hardware variability and temporal degradation that impede consistent data quality across small satellite constellations with workstreams that include (1) unified quality evaluation methodologies optimized for small satellites; (2) cross-satellite calibration and correction for multi-source composite use; (3) adaptation of large-satellite Cal/Val techniques to small satellites; and (4) development and publication of user/operator guidance documents. The initial phase of the project will run through September 2030. - Build a high resolution [geospatial foundation AI model to improve administrative efficiency in local government](https://www.restec.or.jp/notice/notice%5Fyear%5F2026/20260323.html?ref=japanearthobserver.com) (mapping fixed assets for tax assessment). They’ll work with **AeroToyota**. - **iQPS** (QPS研究所) [signed a contract with Japan's Ministry of Defense (JMoD)](https://i-qps.net/news/3540/?ref=japanearthobserver.com) under the program "Advance Demonstration of Common Key Technologies Required for Utilization of the Space Domain" (宇宙領域の活用に必要な共通キー技術の先行実証), valued at ¥751 million (\~US $5 million) running 2026 - 2029\. This contract is a follow-on to a previous award for prototype satellite development under the same program, and covers the on-orbit demonstration of a satellite that iQPS is developing and manufacturing. - **ispace** and [South Korean space robotics company Unmanned Exploration Laboratory (UEL) signed a Payload Service Agreement (PSA)](https://ispace-inc.com/news-en/?p=8798&ref=japanearthobserver.com) \[ispace\] to transport UEL's SCARAB two-wheeled, 2-kg class micro-rover to the lunar surface aboard ispace's new ULTRA lunar lander as part of Mission 3 (targeted for 2028). The mission would mark the first Korean-developed rover to operate on the Moon's surface, highlighting growing commercial aerospace collaboration between Japan and Korea. The SCARAB rover is designed to acquire image data during the lunar day, generate 3D imagery of the lander in a "lander-selfie rover" configuration using two cameras, and accommodate up to 200g of additional payloads via an internal bay. - **Iwaya Giken (岩谷技研)**, a [Hokkaido-based company developing commercial crewed stratospheric balloon flights was selected for a JAXA's Space Strategy Fund award](https://prtimes.jp/main/html/rd/p/000000049.000088928.html?ref=japanearthobserver.com) to develop a proposed "Universal Pressurized Cabin System for Crewed Spacecraft". This is a direct evolution of the pressurized cabin technology it has been developing for a “space tourism” offering that would use suborbital rocket-launched crewed vehicles. The other partners on the project are **Shin Nihon Air Technologies**, **Japan Airlines (JAL)**, and **Mitsubishi Heavy Industries (MHI).** Iwaya Giken is also slated to support two related JAXA-funded projects on anomaly detection/emergency evacuation and safety visualization and detection technologies. ![05-iwaya-giken-balloon.png](https://storage.ghost.io/c/54/e9/54e9159b-1345-41dd-b7dd-180de33edc5b/content/images/2026/04/05-iwaya-giken-balloon.png) Iawaya Giken stratospheric balloon. Credit: Iwaya Giken - The **Ministry of Education, Culture, Sports, Science and Technology (MEXT)** announced the results of its [SBIR Phase 3 stage-gate evaluation for the "Development and Demonstration of Private Rockets" theme](https://space-connect.jp/mext-sbir/?ref=japanearthobserver.com) \[SpaceConnect\], advancing two of three companies from Phase 2\. Interstellar Technologies (IST), with its liquid methane-fueled small satellite launch vehicle ZERO was awarded a Phase 3 grant with a funding ceiling of ¥7.37 billion (\~US$ 50 million). Interstellar received high marks for its partnership with Toyota for mass-production know-how and its strong risk management culture. **Space One**, with its enhanced liquid methane upper stage for its Kairos rocket, received a Phase 3 award with a ceiling of ¥4.46 billion (\~ US$ 30 million). Innovative Space Carrier (ISC), developing a reusable small-satellite launch system, did not advance to Phase 3 but was granted a Phase 2 timeline extension. - **Asia Air Survey** and **Adsol Nissin Co** announced a [partnership aimed at advancing digital twin-based smart city development](https://ssl4.eir-parts.net/doc/9233/tdnet/2775791/00.pdf?ref=japanearthobserver.com). The two companies have collaborated since 2013 on GIS systems for forestry, disaster prevention, rail, and energy sectors. The new partnership will combine Asia Air Survey's aerial survey and spatial data expertise with Adsol Nissin's GIS, AI, IoT, and satellite data capabilities to build a “Smart City Integrated Platform Service” or "Urban OS" by leveraging 3D and spatial-temporal data aligned with Japan's national PLATEAU 3D urban model initiative. The integrated platform will support real-time urban infrastructure monitoring, traffic and pedestrian flow optimization, disaster risk management, urban planning, and environmental monitoring. Once establishing a domestic market, they plan to expand internationally. - **ispace** has signed a [Payload Service Agreement (PSA) with the University of Leicester](https://ssl4.eir-parts.net/doc/9348/tdnet/2783542/00.pdf?ref=japanearthobserver.com) valued at GBP 3 million (\~¥ 647 million) to deliver a Raman Spectrometer designed to characterize regolith to the lunar surface. ### 💴 Equity Funding - **Kick Space Technologies Co.**, a space startup spun out of **Kyushu Institute of Technology (KyuTech)**, has [raised ¥60 million (\~US$ 387K) via J-KISS convertible notes](https://spacemedia.jp/news/18090?ref=japanearthobserver.com#Kick%5FSpace%5FTechnologies6000) \[Space Media\] from venture capital firms and other investors. Founded in July 2025, the company provides mission design, satellite engineering, testing, and operations services for small satellites, as well as hardware and software products. - Japanese telecom firm **KDDI** participated in a [seed funding round of Sophia Space](https://sophia.space/news/sophia-space-closes-10m-seed-round-to-accelerate-orbital-edge-computing?ref=japanearthobserver.com) \[Sophia Space\], a U.S. orbital computing startup. Sophia is developing TILE, a modular in-orbit computing platform for AI and other data-intensive workloads. - **Solafune** has [raised US $30 million in Series A funding to support international expansion and development of its integrated intelligence platform](https://company.solafune.com/news/solafune-raises-over-30-million-in-series-a-funding?ref=japanearthobserver.com) that combines satellite and geospatial intelligence with open source and signals intelligence. The funding is a mix of new capital and debt financing with the capital investment led by **Globis Capital Partners** and joined by Boost Capital, Rice Capital, **GREE Ventures**, **Mitsubishi UFJ Capital**, **Mizuho Capital**, Resona Capital, **Chiba Dojo Fund**, and others. The debt component is from **Mizuho Bank**, **MUFG Bank**, **Sumitomo Mitsui Banking Corporation**, and others. - Solafune's primary clients have been Japanese government defense, policing, and intelligence agencies as well as foreign governments and international development agencies in Africa. They see opportunities for expansion in Southeast Asia, South America and the Middle East, continuing their focus on the Global South. They have also operated a series of satellite imagery data analysis competitions that attract hundreds of participants each and focus on developing new models and algorithms. - **QPS Holdings**, the parent company of iQPS [will issue new shares via third-party allotment to three strategic investors](https://i-qps.net/news/3475/?ref=japanearthobserver.com): SKY Perfect JSAT Corporation (スカパーJSAT), Mitsuiwa Corporation Group Holdings (ミツウロコグループホールディングス), and Mitsui Sumitomo Insurance Co., Ltd. (三井住友海上火災保険). This new capital raise is intended to fund satellite manufacturing and launch costs toward the company's goal of building a 36-satellite QPS-SAR constellation by 2030\. iQPS currently operates 9 SAR satellites as of March 2026\. The financing builds on existing funding from a JAXA Space Strategy Fund grant of up to ¥21.2 billion, and approximately ¥8 billion raised through a new share warrant issuance to SMBC Nikko Securities. - **Kokusai Kogyo** and **ZENRIN** are [making new investments in Satellite Data Services Co. (衛星データサービス株式会社)](https://www.kkc.co.jp/news/release/2026/03/02%5F34463/?ref=japanearthobserver.com), which will begin operating as a standalone operating company in April 2026\. Existing investors include a bunch of heavy hitters: Mitsubishi Electric, ID&E Holdings, MUFG, PASCO, Asia Air Survey, SkyPerfect JSAT, and RESTEC. SDS will offer satellite remote sensing data analysis services for national land management, disaster situational awareness, agricultural and building monitoring, and climate change-related impacts. - **Orbital Lasers**, a space laser and optical technology startup founded in 2024 as a spin-out from SKY Perfect JSAT, has [closed a Series A funding round](https://www.orbitallasers.com/2026/03/19/series%5Fa/?ref=japanearthobserver.com) of ¥3.02 billion (\~ US $20 million) through a third-party share allotment and J-KISS convertible equity, bringing total equity raised to ¥3.92 billion (\~US $26 million). The round was backed by nine investors including **SPARX Asset Management**, **JIC Venture** **Growth Investments**, **Mitsubishi UFJ Capital**, **Mizuho Capital**, **SMBC Venture Capital**, and **SKY Perfect JSAT**. The funds will be used for development of three technologies: high-performance laser transmission, high-resolution photon reception, and optimized satellite bus systems. The firm also has an R&D contract with JAXA for design and prototyping of a compact satellite LiDAR system, and a contract with JMoD to develop space laser range finding technology for on-orbit monitoring and defense of domestic satellites. - **Space Data (株式会社スペースデータ)** has [created a new division, SPACEDATA INVESTMENT](https://spacedata.jp/news/30kKRE9E?ref=japanearthobserver.com)（スペースデータ インベストメント), focused on partnerships, investments, and acquisitions in existing terrestrial industries that have technology relevant to the space industry. This represents a bit of a strategic pivot toward financial and corporate development tools as a mechanism to accelerate the commercialization of space technology. Space Data did not disclose fund size or other financial details. ### 🔭 Science - JAXA astronaut **Furukawa Satoshi** retired at the end of March. After being selected as an astronaut by JAXA's predecessor, NASDA, in 1999, he flew on ISS missions in 2011 and 2023-24, accumulating a full year in space. Furukawa originally trained a medical doctor, and he will become a professor at **Kyorin University School of Medicine** (杏林大学医学部). JAXA held a [final press conference with Furukawa](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=nQeBcy0gV%5Fs&ref=japanearthobserver.com) \[YouTube\] to commemorate his retirement. - A research team at **Tokyo Metropolitan University** and the **National Astronomical Observatory of Japan** used data from the ESA’s now retired [Gaia satellite](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Gaia%5F%28spacecraft%29?ref=japanearthobserver.com) \[Wikipedia\] to [study the thousands of so-called “solar twins”](https://www.space.com/astronomy/stars/a-mass-stellar-migration-billions-of-years-ago-may-have-helped-life-get-started-on-earth?ref=japanearthobserver.com) \[Space.com\] – stars with similar age and other characteristics – within 1,000 light years of the Solar System. They found a cluster of 1,551 stars with similar ages of 4 - 6 billion years. Previous research has suggested that our sun was born more than 10,000 light years closer to the galaxy’s center and then migrated outward to its current position. The new research suggests that our sun may be part of a larger group of stars that migrated away from the galactic core around the same time. Because the inner regions of the galaxy are thought to be far more hostile to life, the migration away from the center may have been a factor enabling life to safely form on Earth. The Gaia satellite program plans a much larger release of data later in 2026, and this team plans to continue the research with this more extensive data set. ![06-science-migrating-suns-naoj.jpg](https://storage.ghost.io/c/54/e9/54e9159b-1345-41dd-b7dd-180de33edc5b/content/images/2026/04/06-science-migrating-suns-naoj.jpg) Stars similar to our sun migrated as a group from from the center of our galaxy, approx. 4 - 6 billion years ago. Source: National Astronomical Observatory of Japan ### 🗺️ International Collaborations - **ispace** signed an [agreement with GISTDA, the Thailand space agency, to carry out a feasibility study for a life-sciences payload](https://ispace-inc.com/news-en/?p=8606&ref=japanearthobserver.com) \[ispace\] to be transported to the lunar surface on a future ispace lander. - Japan and France are [increasing their space defense ties](https://asia.nikkei.com/politics/defense/japan-and-france-eye-sharing-satellite-data-in-space-defense-collaboration?ref=japanearthobserver.com) \[NIkkei Asia\]. The head of French Space Command, Major Gen. Vincent Chusseau, visited Japan in mid-March and met with the **Japan Ministry of Defense**, the **Self-Defense Forces**, and the **Air Self-Defense Force's Space Operations Group** to discuss future cooperation. Japan's Space Operations Group defense unit operates from within the Air Self-Defense Force. The number of personnel allocated to the unit has been growing rapidly, from 310 to 670 in FY2025 and to 880 people in FY2026\. - *Why does this matter?* Among the European countries, France probably has the most sophisticated space defense system with both military reconnaissance and communications satellites. Japan operates its own space-based defense communications and reconnaissance infrastructure that is comparable in extent and ambition. Both nations also have complex, mature aerospace industrial capacity, and there are plenty of opportunities to collaborate and carry out joint training and development. I view this as part of both governments’ efforts to diversify their alliance relationships and be less reliant on the United States. - Following the visit from French Space Command, a summit between **Prime Minister Takaichi** and **French President Macron** featured another rare earths collaboration deal and several space-related announcements. Japan got the memo on rare earths vulnerability more than 15 years ago and had been pursuing mining, processing, and recycling initiatives since then. France has access to rare earth ores but, like most countries outside China, doesn't have the refining capacity. Japan will work with France on a public-private venture aimed at building a refining facility in southwest France with the goal of beginning operations by the end of 2026\. The space-related deal announcements included: - **IHI Aerospace** and ArianeGroup signed an MOU to jointly operate a land-based monitoring station at IHI's site in Aioi, Japan. The station will use three optical sensors to observe, track, and analyze objects orbiting the Earth -- both debris and satellites -- to enhance space situational awareness. - **PASCO** and Airbus will deepen their long-standing cooperation on satellite data. - **Astroscale** and French satellite maker, Exotrail, [signed a contract](https://www.astroscale.com/en/news/astroscale-and-exotrail-advance-france-japan-cooperation-on-space?ref=japanearthobserver.com) to carry out a deorbiting mission. - JAXA and CNES, France's space agency, will provide funding to companies that participate in joint Japan-France space technology development projects. - **ispace** and Thailand's national space agency **GISTDA** (Geo-Informatics and Space Technology Development Agency) signed an [MOU to study the feasibility of a Thai-developed life-science payload to be delivered to the lunar surface](https://ispace-inc.com/news-en/?p=8606&ref=japanearthobserver.com). GISTDA will lead project planning, execution, and evaluation, while ispace will provide technical interfaces between the life-science payload and its lunar lander. The project aims to advance Thailand's participation in the Artemis Program. The agreement builds on a prior MOU between ispace, GISTDA, and mu Space. ## 🎥 Videos **JAXA** - Space Strategy Fund Year 3 Information Session - [https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=F1ULnBWMT0A](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=F1ULnBWMT0A&ref=japanearthobserver.com) - H3 Rocket Captive Fire Test - Pre-fire Press Conference \[[Japanese](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=vaXEt1FsSps&ref=japanearthobserver.com)\] - H3 engine live fire test \[[Japanese](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=30rwxRC808o%20&ref=japanearthobserver.com)\] - Furukawa Satoshi astronaut retirement press conference \[[Japanese](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=nQeBcy0gV%5Fs&ref=japanearthobserver.com)\] ## 📝 Reports and Datasets - **RESTEC** released some reports: - *Technical Report:* ESA Copernicus/Sentinel \[[Japanese](https://www.restec.or.jp/knowledge/column/20260330.html?ref=japanearthobserver.com)\] - *Case Study:* Yamaguchi/Hofu Satellite-based Parcel Inspection Field Surveys \[[Japanese](https://www.restec.or.jp/knowledge/column/20260316.html?ref=japanearthobserver.com)\] - *Case Study:* Gifu Prefecture used AI-based satellite image analysis to reduce administrative burned of surveying crop planting conditions for subsidy allocation under the Agricultural Income Stabilization Policy and reducing on-site visits by 80-90% \[[Japanese](https://www.restec.or.jp/knowledge/column/20260305.html?ref=japanearthobserver.com)\] - **Weathernews** launched a new Maritime Weather Dataset API \[[English](https://global.weathernews.com/news/18731/?ref=japanearthobserver.com)\] \[[Japanese](https://jp.weathernews.com/news/55489/?ref=japanearthobserver.com)\], targeting the global shipping market. It is based on a new proprietary Global Meteorological & Wave Prediction System that achieves approximately 23% improvement in significant wave height forecast accuracy, outperforming both the European Centre for Medium-Range Weather Forecasts (ECMWF) and the U.S. National Centers for Environmental Prediction (NCEP). The new system ingests more than 80 ensemble forecast scenarios from major meteorological agencies worldwide and fuses them with weather satellite data and Weathernews' proprietary onboard vessel observation data, delivering 0.125-degree grid (\~10–15 km mesh) forecasts for wind, waves, currents, sea ice, and tropical cyclone tracks at up to 15-day lead times with 6-hourly update cycles. The API dataset includes two packages: 1) Meteorological & Oceanographic Data covering \~2,300 major global ports and open-ocean routes; and 2) Voyage Data, available only to operators using the company's SeaNavigator weather-routing platform (which includes route performance, fuel consumption, CII/CO₂ emissions metrics, charter-party warranty assessments, and voyage simulation outputs). ![07-weathernews-wave-height-map-improvement.jpg](https://storage.ghost.io/c/54/e9/54e9159b-1345-41dd-b7dd-180de33edc5b/content/images/2026/04/07-weathernews-wave-height-map-improvement.jpg) Wave height forecasts before (left) and after (right) improved by 23%. Source: Weathernews ## 📆 Asia-Pacific Conferences & Events This newsletter is mostly focused on Japan, but I also like to highlight events across the Asia-Pacific region. Some upcoming conferences in 2026 include: **May 2026** - [Asia-Pacific Regional IAU Meeting (APRIM)](https://aprim2026.org/?ref=japanearthobserver.com) \- 4 - 8 May - Hong Kong, China - [Asia-Pacific Satellite International Conference](https://apsat.assi.or.id/?ref=japanearthobserver.com) \- 12 - 13 May - Jakarta, Indonesia - [Global Space and Technology Convention & Exhibition (GSTCE)](https://www.space.org.sg/gstce/?ref=japanearthobserver.com) \- 13 - 14 May - Singapore - [International Symposium on Remote Sensing (ISRS) 2026](https://www.rssj.or.jp/isrs2026/?ref=japanearthobserver.com) \- 13 - 15 May - Matsue, Shimane-ken, Japan - [JAXA Space Strategy Fund Commercial Crewed Spaceflight LEO Workshop](https://fund.jaxa.jp/content/uploads/260514%5Fworkshop.pdf?ref=japanearthobserver.com) (商業有人低軌道ワークショップ)- 14 May - Nihonbashi, Tokyo, Japan (hybrid) - [CommunicAsia 2026](https://asiatechxsg.com/communicasia/?ref=japanearthobserver.com) \- 20 - 22 May - Singapore - [Geo-Space Bharat 2026](https://geospacebharat.org/?ref=japanearthobserver.com) \- 21 - 22 May - Ahmedabad, Gujarat - [SatelliteAsia 2026 (at Asia Tech x Singapore (ATxSG))](https://asiatechxsg.com/satelliteasia/?ref=japanearthobserver.com) \- 20 - 22 May - Singapore - [Japan Geoscience Union (JpGU)-AGU Joint Meeting 2026](https://www.jpgu.org/meeting%5Fe2026/?ref=japanearthobserver.com) \- 24–29 May - Chiba, Japan - [3rd SPEXA Space Business Expo (宇宙ビジネス展)](https://www.spexa.jp/tokyo/ja-jp.html?ref=japanearthobserver.com) \- 27 - 29 May - Tokyo, Japan **June 2026** - [Indo Pacific GeoIntelligence Forum](https://geospatialworld.net/geointelligence/2026/?ref=japanearthobserver.com) \- 2 - 3 June - New Delhi, India - [4th China Digital Earth Conference](https://www.cnisde.digitalearth-isde.org/?ref=japanearthobserver.com) \- 6 - 8 June - Qingdao, China - [10th Shanghai International Aerospace Technology and Equipment Exhibition (AIREXPO SHANGHAI 2026)](http://en.airexpochina.com/audience/itemid-48.html?ref=japanearthobserver.com) \- 10 - 12 June - Shanghai, China - [Australian Space Summit and Exhibition](https://www.spaceconnectonline.com.au/ausspacesummitandexhibition/?ref=japanearthobserver.com) \- 17 - 18 June - Sydney, Australia - [58th Fluid Dynamics Conference / 44th Aerospace Numerical Simulation Symposium (第58回流体力学講演会 /第44回航空宇宙数値ｼﾐｭﾚｰｼｮﾝ技術ｼﾝﾎﾟｼﾞｳﾑ)](https://branch.jsass.or.jp/aerocom/ryu/ryu58/?ref=japanearthobserver.com) \- 24 - 26 June - Tottori, Japan - [Aeromart Hyderabad](https://hyderabad.bciaerospace.com/?ref=japanearthobserver.com) \- 29 June - 1 July - Hyderabad, Telangana **July 2026** - [SPACETIDE 2026](https://events.spacetide.jp/event/Tide2026/summary?ref=japanearthobserver.com) \- 6 - 9 July - Tokyo, Japan - [IEEE Space 2026](https://ieeespace.org/?ref=japanearthobserver.com) \- 19 - 21 July - Bengaluru, India - [19th Australian Space Forum](https://australianspaceforum.com.au/?ref=japanearthobserver.com) \- 21 - 22 July - Adelaide, Australia # --- If you’ve made it this far, thank you for reading. Please be in touch [via LinkedIn](https://www.linkedin.com/in/rcheetham/?ref=japanearthobserver.com) with any feedback, questions, comments, or requests for future topics. And if you have a friend or colleague that you think would enjoy JEO, please share it! Until next time, Robert --- I would like to be born a person as small as a violet. –- Natsume Sōseki (1867–1916) - translated by R.H. Blyth すみれ程 な小さき人に 生れたし *Sumire hodo* *na chiisaki hito ni* *umaretashi* ### JEO 13 - How NASA's Lunar Pivots will Impact JAXA URL: https://www.japanearthobserver.com/jeo-13-how-nasas-lunar-pivots-will-impact-jaxa/ Last updated: 2026-04-02T12:30:32.000Z *Welcome to Japan Earth Observer (JEO), a monthly newsletter about the space, Earth observation, and geospatial industries in Japan. NASA has made a series of dramatic announcements about changes in direction for its lunar exploration plans, and it's going to have a significant impact on Japan and other partners.* # Digesting NASA's Revised Vision - What does it mean for Japan? NASA made a pile of announcements about lunar exploration last week. In addition to reorganizing the objectives for getting people and robots to the moon, NASA cancelled (or at least, halted indefinitely?) the Lunar Gateway project. Instead, NASA is going to shift all of the Gateway resources toward building, supporting, and inhabiting a lunar base near the South Pole and sending both robots and people to the moon on an accelerated cadence. Since 2019 (this isn’t the first pivot) NASA’s lunar exploration plans have been centered on the Artemis program and aim to establish a sustainable, long-term human presence at the Moon's South Pole. Up until last week, this included the heavy Space Launch System (SLS) rocket, the Orion crew capsule, the Lunar Gateway outpost in lunar orbit, commercial Human Landing Systems (HLS) from SpaceX and Blue Origin, and international partnerships. The new, new plan makes [several changes](https://payloadspace.com/nasa-priorities-get-a-major-makeover/?ref=japanearthobserver.com) \[Payload\]: - **Human Transportation Missions** - *Artemis 3* will launch sooner (in 2027) but will not go to the moon as originally planned; rather, it will focus on the Orion capsule rendevouzing with the commercial landers. - *Artemis 4* will send a crew to the moon in 2028 but on the current SLS rocket design, rather than a planned upgrade to SLS Block 1B. - Starting with *Artemis 6*, crewed missions will go to the moon twice a year - **Phase 1: Build, Test, Learn:** Accelerate the tempo of lunar landers and technology demonstrations under the Commercial Lunar Payload Services (CLPS) profgram, including testing rovers, instruments, power generation, communications, navigation, and scientific investigations. There are two CLPS trips already planned for 2026 and they will ramp up to 10 launches in 2027 and 12 in 2028 - **Phase 2: Establish Early Infrastructure:** Beginning in 2029, send astronauts to a semi-habitable base on the lunar surface. Integrate rovers (including the JAXA/Toyoto pressurized rover), scientific payloads, infrastructure, and other capabilities. - **Phase 3: Enable Long-Duration Human Presence:** Rely on high capacity commercial cargo and human landing systems to send heavier infrastructure and habitation structures the enable “semi-permanent” human occupation for 28-day stretches. NASA called out the Italian Space Agency’s (ASI) multi-purpose habitats and the Canadian Space Agency’s (CSA) Lunar Utility Vehicle (it turns out Canada can make more than robotic arms for space). Crews and robots will begin building roads and landing pads that will support long-term operations. - **Bypass the Gateway:** Without the upgraded SLS Block 1B, the SLS won’t have the lift capacity to boost the Gateway components to lunar orbit. Phase 1 will not be a modest increase in flight cadence. NASA wants to use the CLPS program to send up to 30 robotic landings starting in 2027\. The previously shelved water-hunting VIPER rover is back on for launch in 2027, using a Blue Origin rocket to deliver it to the lunar surface. NASA will issue an RFI to solicit proposals for payloads to launch on the additional flights in 2027 and 2028. NASA also announced changes in plans for commercial LEO space stations and Mars exploration, but I’ll focus on the lunar plans first. ## Gateway Gut Punch for Partners The demise of the Lunar Gateway has got to be both a gut punch and some whiplash for the international partners in Japan, Europe, Canada and UAE. This was supposed to be an international collaboration that would build on the success of the International Space Station (ISS). Having handed off LEO space stations to commercial companies NASA would lead an international consortium to lunar exploration with the Gateway as a transit hub to the lunar surface. The cancellation was probably at least partially expected after the Trump administration announced its intention to cancel Gateway last year. But Congress restored the funding for Gateway in NASA’s 2026 budget in January. I suppose that Congress could again redirect the funding back to Gateway, but NASA probably can’t afford to pursue both efforts and it's likely that Jared Isaacman, the new NASA Administrator will make the case that this new path is the best route forward. Early indications are that [key members of Congress are on board](https://payloadspace.com/top-space-lawmaker-on-moon-base-artemis-plans/?ref=japanearthobserver.com) \[Payload\] with the change of plans. This is going to have a non-trivial impact on JAXA, which had agreed to build multiple components for the orbital Gateway. First, ESA and JAXA have been working together to build the Lunar International Habitation Module (Lunar I-HAB). JAXA was responsible for supplying the life support system, environmental controls, batteries, thermal control, and imagery components on the I-HAB. Second, JAXA had also committed to providing a cargo resupply vehicle, a major upgrade to the HTV-X, called HTV-XG. Mitsubishi Heavy Industries has been leading that effort, which included a major increase in power (for maintaining the cargo environment), reduction in weight by shifting from metal to composite materials, and the addition of a heat radiator. I suppose it's possible that the orbital habitat life support system tech could potentially be repurposed for use on the lunar surface, but I can't see how an HTV-XG cargo vehicle could be repurposed for the lunar surface, and it must be irksome to invest in a project for years and then have the rug pulled out from under your efforts. While this significantly impacts JAXA, it arguably has a far greater impact for ESA. They have contracts with Thales Alenia, Airbus, Redwire, Beyond Gravity and other to build multiple Gateway modules, including: Lunar I-Hab module (one of two habitation modules); the Lunar View module for refueling for power and propulsion and cargo logistics; the Lunar Link telecom component for communications with the lunar surface; the European Service Module for the Orion spacecraft; components of the HALO module; and many subcomponents. This represents hundreds of millions of euros of investments. It’s possible that some of these efforts can be repurposed for the lunar surface or later Mars missions, or even for LEO space station efforts. Nonetheless, it’s going to be a big financial hit at a time when European trust in the reliability of the United States is at a very low ebb. I’m guessing that there are some urgent and heated Zoom calls being held between NASA, JAXA, ESA, and the UAE Space Agency to figure out how they might salvage the investments they’ve already made. ![01-nasa-gateway-artemis-elements.png](https://storage.ghost.io/c/54/e9/54e9159b-1345-41dd-b7dd-180de33edc5b/content/images/2026/04/01-nasa-gateway-artemis-elements.png) (Former) Lunar Gateway architecture. We hardly knew thee. Source: NASA ## Lunar Alignment with JAXA Initiatives That said, JAXA has allocated significant resources and attention toward lunar exploration initiatives, in general, and has a broad portfolio of projects aimed at lunar landers, communications, debris management, and water discovery on the Moon. The new NASA vision for lunar surface exploration will also align well with many Japanese companies. - **Toyota's** pressurized lunar rover will remain relevant, and perhaps on a faster timeline. - **GITAI** is working on robots for construction on the lunar surface. - **Kurita Water Industries** (栗田工業株式会社) is working with **Takasago Thermal Engineering** (高砂熱学工業株式会社) and **ispace** on lunar water purification. - **Power Laser Technology** (株式会社パワーレーザー) is building 3D printing tech for lunar construction as well as lasers for optical communications. - **TOWING Co.** is developing soil that can be made from lunar regolith. - **ispace** obviously has multiple lunar landers under development. ![02-toyota-rover.png](https://storage.ghost.io/c/54/e9/54e9159b-1345-41dd-b7dd-180de33edc5b/content/images/2026/04/02-toyota-rover.png) Artist's illustration of the planned Toyota/JAXA pressurized crew rover on the Moon. Credit: Toyota/JAXA ## Commercial LEO Space Station Changes In addition to the lunar exploration pivot, NASA delivered a surprise assertion that commercial space station efforts that aim to replace the ISS are not moving fast enough. NASA now wants to potentially procure a government-owned “Core Module” that will attach to the ISS and provide power and life support to commercial segments that dock with it. The Core Module would be used to test and validate commercial modules, before detaching into free flight. NASA also wants to catalyze the orbital economy with private astronaut missions, joint missions, module competitions, and prize-based awards. NASA cites a lack of demand for commercial space station services, such as private tourism, manufacturing, and research on the ISS as a key impediment to development of the market. Why the Core Module? NASA wants to speed up deployment of commercial space stations as well as avoid a scenario in which we end up with only one commercial provider. By providing a key core component that would be common to all commercial space stations, NASA thinks it will accelerate all of the ongoing efforts. That might make sense. However, it appears that no one from NASA talked to the commercial space companies currently developing space stations. [They are not impressed and neither is Congress](https://payloadspace.com/lawmakers-question-nasas-shifting-vision-for-clds/?ref=japanearthobserver.com) \[Payload\]. Dave Cavossa, president of the nonprofit Commercial Space Federation advocacy group that represents several commercial space station developers likened it to Lucy snatching the football as Charlie Brown approached to kick it. In testimony to Congress, Cavossa highlighted that commercial space station companies have already raised more than US $2 billion in private capital, with more than $1 billion of that just in the past six months. These companies believe that while there may not be many buyers for commercial services on the ISS, its costs are high, and private firms are likely to be able to deliver similar services for much lower fees. In the meantime, unlike the abandonment of Gateway, NASA hasn’t yet cancelled its current plans for supporting commercial LEO space stations. It’s going to put out a Request for Information (RFI) to explore the newly proposed approach and then potentially issue RFPs after that. *Why does this matter for Japan?* The Japanese Kibo research module on the ISS has been an extraordinary commercial, research, and diplomatic success for Japan. In the post-ISS era, Japan wants to retain a seat at the table and have a chance at building on that success. Japan does not currently have the resources to build a full space station on its own, but while the Japanese government is not directly involved in the various commercial space station efforts, Japanese firms are key investors or partners in every one of them. If NASA is going to change its strategy, it is likely to have a significant impact on the commercial viability of these activities. The U.S. Congress could potentially weigh in on this, and the commercial firms will likely have some influence on how this plays out. In the meantime, the change in direction has created uncertainty. ## NASA Instruments on JAXA/ISRO LUPEX On the same day NASA shared the halt to the Lunar Gateway project and revised Artemis and commercial LEO space station plans, they also announced it will be [providing an instrument to the LUPEX lander](https://www.nasa.gov/solar-system/moon/nasas-water-hunting-tool-will-help-scout-moons-south-pole/?ref=japanearthobserver.com) \[NASA\] being developed by JAXA and ISRO. I actually don't think this was news as the water-hunting Neutron Spectrometer instrument has been planned for inclusion on the LUPEX mission for at least the past three years. But the [JAXA press release](https://humans-in-space.jaxa.jp/en/biz-lab/news/detail/005577.html?ref=japanearthobserver.com) indicated that NASA and JAXA had signed the formal Implementing Arrangement (IA), so that probably justified the renewed attention. NASA will also be contributing the use of its Deep Space Network to support LUPEX rover operations. The Neutron Spectrometer System (NSS) will be used to detect hydrogen beneath the lunar surface in order to carry out detailed surveys of the distribution and quantity of water near the surface. The NSS is a sophisticated instrument developed at NASA Ames, but it is not a one-off. The first NSS flew in 2024 on the failed Astrobotics Peregrine mission. In addition to LUPEX, the NSS will also fly on the recently revived NASA VIPER lunar rover mission and on the MoonRanger “micro rover” being developed by Carnegie Mellon University. NASA is getting NSS on multiple rover missions in order to generate the best possible map of subsurface water near the Moon’s South Pole. ![03-lupex-lander-illastration-jaxa.jpg](https://storage.ghost.io/c/54/e9/54e9159b-1345-41dd-b7dd-180de33edc5b/content/images/2026/04/03-lupex-lander-illastration-jaxa.jpg) Artist illustration of the LUPEX lander and rover. Source: JAXA ## Urgency vs. Reliability After a year of mixed messages and a muddled vision, the new NASA Administrator, Jared Isaacman, has brought decisive leadership, a clear vision, and a palpable sense of urgency. But it’s big shift from the previous direction, and while there are doubtless U.S. domestic companies negatively affected by the changes, a lot of NASA’s international partners are going to bear the brunt of yet another strategy shift. And this is not happening in a vacuum \[well, maybe some of it ends up in a vacuum😁\]. The revised vision arrives on the heels of a year of tariffs, aggressive threats against allies, an unprovoked war with Iran, and general belligerence and hostility toward nations that have previously been friends, allies, and partners. Historically, space endeavors have sometimes been a means of overcoming politics to accomplish extraordinary feats that benefit everyone on Earth, and NASA has often been a leader in those endeavors. But true partners and friends build trust by demonstrating reliability and trustworthiness. And there are only so many times one can turn the other cheek before statements about “partnership", "friendship", and “joint missions” ring hollow, and nations will seek partnership elsewhere. --- If you’ve made it this far, thank you for reading. Please be in touch [via LinkedIn](https://www.linkedin.com/in/rcheetham/?ref=japanearthobserver.com) with any feedback, questions, comments, or requests for future topics. And if you have a friend or colleague that you think would enjoy JEO, please share it! Until next time, Robert --- The spring sea gently rising and falling all the day long. – Yosa Buson (1716–1784) - translated by Robert Hass 春の海終日 （ひねもす）のたり のたりかな *Haru no umi* *hinemosu notari* *notari kana* ### JEO 12 - News Roundup - 14 Mar 2026 URL: https://www.japanearthobserver.com/jeo-12-news-roundup-14-mar-2026/ Last updated: 2026-04-27T08:59:39.000Z *Welcome to Japan Earth Observer (JEO), a free monthly newsletter with a news roundup and one in-depth article about the space, Earth observation and geospatial industries in Japan.* In this news roundup from late February and early March, we’ve got several new funding and contract announcements, the HTV-X cargo separation from the ISS, another KAIROS rocket failure, Chinese export controls, and much more. On to the news… ## News & Announcements ### 💱 Contracts and Funding - Japan's **Ministry of Internal Affairs and Communications (MIC) (総務省)** is going to subsidize development of anti-jamming tech that can protect satellite communications. MIC wants to see testing in summer 2026 with devices developed by FY2028 and available in the marketplace by 2033\. France, the Netherlands, and Ukraine have suffered repeated attacks on their telecom and broadcasting services over the past couple of years with Russia as the suspected culprit. - *Why does this matter?* The concern driving this R&D effort is not an academic one. Technically, Russia and Japan are still at war; they never signed a peace treaty after World War II. Further, Russian and Chinese combat jets regularly violate Japanese air space. Combined with the potential for hostilities over Taiwan or the Senkaku Islands, it seems prudent for Japan to learn a bit from what's happening in Europe and anticipate similar problems closer to home. The financial support will be channeled through the Space Strategy Fund and will be aimed at supporting development of telecom equipment, materials, and encryption software that will eventually be deployed as part of dual-use satellite communications infrastructure. - **Mitsubishi Electric (MELCO) (三菱電機株式会社)** landed [another major contract](https://space-connect.jp/mitsubishi-mod/?ref=japanearthobserver.com) \[Space Connect\] with the **Japanese Ministry of Defense (JMoD) (防衛省)** to develop and manufacture a "Next-Generation Defense Satellite Communications System" that will become the successor to the current Kirameki-2 X-band defense communications satellite. ¥123.53 billion (\~US$ 800 million). Kirameki serves as core communications infrastructure for the Japan Self-Defense Force (SDF), and the current one will reach the end of its design service life in 2030\. MELCO will aim to advance the current state-of-the-art with anti-jamming resistance, improved interoperability with allied and partner nations, and the ability to reconfigure communication parameters on-the-fly. MELCO will leverage its DS2000 geostationary satellite bus as the foundation. JMoD isn’t putting all of its eggs in one communications basket, however, and plans to build a multi-layered communication network combining GEO and LEO satellite constellations to reduce dependency on single platforms and improve resilience against jamming and interception threats. ![01-mitsubishi-jmod-comms-satellite-jmod.jpg](https://storage.ghost.io/c/54/e9/54e9159b-1345-41dd-b7dd-180de33edc5b/content/images/2026/03/01-mitsubishi-jmod-comms-satellite-jmod.jpg) Next generation defense communications satellites. Source: JMoD - **Mitsubishi Electric (MELCO) (三菱電機株式会社)** led a [new Series C investment round in PLD Space of $209 million aimed at ramping up production of the Miura 5 launch vehicle](https://payloadspace.com/pld-space-closes-e180m-series-c-eyes-flight-test-this-year/?ref=japanearthobserver.com). MELCO was joined by the Spain Ministry of Science, Innovation, and Universities and the Spanish public funds management company Cofides. This brings PLD Space's total fundraising to $400 million aimed at developing a rocket that can place a metric ton of payload into LEO. PLD wants to launch 30+ times per year by 2030 from the Guiana Space Center in Kourou, French Guiana. MELCO is not just an investor; they will secure access to new supply of launch vehicles they can sell across Japan and Asia. - **Rakuten Mobile** and the **University of Tokyo Graduate School of Engineering** have been awarded a 5-year ¥11 billion (\~US$ 71.9 million) award to Rakuten and University of Tokyo to advance AI-enhanced direct-to-mobile satellite communications using a novel approach to frequency sharing. Rakuten and Univ of Tokyo Graduate School of Engineering have been collaborating on a joint R&D project since 2021\. This ongoing work, partially funded by NICT, is focused on improving IoT device network coverage in mountainous areas, remote islands, The new award will extend this research by developing dynamic frequency sharing protocols; machine learning models to deal with interference, Doppler effects, and traffic load balancing; seamless handover on consumer grade smartphones; and disaster resilience. So LEO direct-to-device satellites + 5G + frequency sharing + AI/ML in order to extend coverage to remote or difficult locations. Rakuten Mobile is a relatively late entrant to the Japanese mobile network market, launching just six years ago in 2020\. But by building on cloud native tech, the OpenRAN standard, and embracing a digital first approach, they have racked up 10 million subscribers (about 4-5% market share). That's still a distant fourth place behind the three big players (NTT Docomo, KDDI, and Softbank), but it's a solid record, and their low cost structure has already enabled them to turn an operating profit. - *Why does this matter?* This Space Strategy Fund announcement fits into their narrative of mobile network innovator, but what about the space part? Is Rakuten going to build its own LEO satellite network? Good question. They might not need to because they are also a major investor in and strategic partner with AST SpaceMobile, which already has six ginormous BlueBird satellites in orbit and wants to have 45 to 60 by the end of 2026\. These satellites use AT&T and Verizon spectrum to provide direct-to-device mobile broadband service. While Starlink has 9,000+ satellites, of which 650 have direct-to-device capability, AST is going for smaller numbers of satellites with gigantic (2,400 sf) phased array antennas that can handle 2,000 simultaneous connections per satellite at up to 120Mbps speeds. AST SpaceMobile is publicly traded, but it still has several major institutional investors including Vanguard, BlackRock, Alphabet/Google, and Rakuten Group. And Rakuten remains the largest shareholder at 10-11%. The R&D support from the Space Strategy Fund is likely to help them leverage that AST SpaceMobile partnership ![02-rakuten-univ-tokyo-ssf-frequency-sharing.png](https://storage.ghost.io/c/54/e9/54e9159b-1345-41dd-b7dd-180de33edc5b/content/images/2026/03/02-rakuten-univ-tokyo-ssf-frequency-sharing.png) Diagram of the Rakuten Mobile frequency sharing concept. Source: Rakuten Mobile - **BULL Co. (株式会社 BULL)** signed an [MOU with Indian space startup XDLINX Labs](https://xdlinx.space/xdlinx-space-labs-signs-mou-with-japans-bull-co-ltd-to-advance-sustainable-space-operations/?ref=japanearthobserver.com) \[XDLINX\] to integrate BULL's post-mission satellite disposal system into XDLINX satellite platform. The agreement will begin with an in-orbit demonstration of the technology before full integration with future XDLINX satellites. - *Why does this matter?* I think insurance companies and national regulations will begin requiring integration of deorbit and disposal technology for all new satellites in the coming years. Japan has several companies working on active debris removal (Astroscale, Orbital Lasers, and Power Laser are a few), but companies like BULL and Axelspace (D-SAIL) that develop devices that can be integrated into every satellite are positioning themselves to serve what could become a substantial global market. - **Aeronext (株式会社 エアロネクスト)** has been [awarded a contract by JAXA to design and manufacture an autonomous mapping drone to recognize objects floating in the ocean](https://aeronext.co.jp/news/jaxa%5F2026/%20?ref=japanearthobserver.com) such as observation balloons and reentry and recovery modules from sounding rockets. JAXA currently uses GPS and visual search. A drone would provide a much wider field of view, and the objective of the research will be to reduce time spent searching. The project has rapid turnaround and is expected to be completed by March 2026.Aeronext has an in-house wind tunnel, which will accelerate development. ![03-aeronext-search-drone.jpg](https://storage.ghost.io/c/54/e9/54e9159b-1345-41dd-b7dd-180de33edc5b/content/images/2026/03/03-aeronext-search-drone.jpg) A drone precisely landing on a moving autonomous ship. Source: Aeronext - **Innovative Space Carrier (ISC) (将来宇宙輸送システム株式会社)** closed a [capital funding and partnership deal](https://innovative-space-carrier.co.jp/news/20260209?ref=japanearthobserver.com) with **JAL Engineering Co., Ltd. (JALEC)**, a maintenance subsidiary of Japan Airlines. The two firms have been collaborating on developing an operations framework for reusable rocket systems, leveraging JALEC’s deep expertise on aircraft maintenance and operations and apply it to rocket maintenance, repair, and overhaul. - **Space Shift (スペースシフト)** was awarded some funding to suport two projects: - The **Tokyo Metropolitan Government** awarded some subsidy funds to [develop an illegal fishing vessel detection system by integrating multiple SAR sources](https://www.spcsft.com/news/3922/?ref=japanearthobserver.com). Detecting fishing and other vessels that deliberately turn off their AIS transponders is a global challenge. My fusing data from multiple SAR satellites, Space Shift to develop a better maritime surveillance solution. - **JAXA's Earth Observation Research Center (EORC)** awarded funds to support an [R&D project aimed at algorithm development using data from JAXA's advanced radar satellite ALOS-4 (PALSAR-3)](https://www.spcsft.com/news/3868/?ref=japanearthobserver.com). The research will aim to improve signal processing and geophysical analysis, ultimately enhancing the accuracy and utility of ALOS-4 data products - **Frontier Innovations**, a venture capital firm, added four new limited partners (LPs) to its Fund No. 1, including Regional Economic Vitalization Corporation of Japan (REVIC), K4 Ventures, North Pacific Bank, and San-in Godo Bank. FI investment portfolio currently includes **BULL**, **Space Quarters**, **Tenchijin**, **Power Laser**, **Letara**, **Musashi Sky Plus**, *iQPS*, and **Ridge-i**. - **Space Data (株式会社スペースデータ)** inked a [strategic partnership](https://spacedata.jp/news/202602%5FCYPHIC?ref=japanearthobserver.com) with **CYPHIC Co.**, a Tokyo-based electronic warfare startup, to jointly develop advanced security solutions that combine electronic warfare tech with digital twin and physical AI capabilities. - *Why does this matter?* Everyone is chasing those juicy defense and intelligence contracts. - **Warpspace (ワープスペース)** has been busy: - They [closed a Series C funding round](https://warpspace.jp/posts/Kj8J9SRX?ref=japanearthobserver.com) led by SPARX Asset Management's "Space Frontier Fund” aimed at accelerating commercialization of its HOCSAI optical communications modem and digital twin products. Warpspace’s components are used by satellite manufactures to support high-capacity data transmission. - Warpspace was [awarded a JAXA Space Strategy Fund](https://warpspace.jp/posts/wAFzFjRv?ref=japanearthobserver.com) (宇宙戦略基金) contract to develop and test techniques to accelerate adoption of satellite optical communications across the industry. - And they were [awarded a separate JAXA contract](https://warpspace.jp/posts/20J32ASO?ref=japanearthobserver.com) to do a concept study on a developing a Moon-Earth optical communication relay system (月面活動に向けた光通信システム概念検討業務) that will support lunar surface operations. - **Toyota Motor's VC** unit is joining NVIDIA to [invest US$1 billion in Yann LeCun's new AI research lab](https://asia.nikkei.com/business/technology/artificial-intelligence/toyota-group-nvidia-invest-1bn-in-former-meta-ai-scientist-s-startup?ref=japanearthobserver.com) \[Nikkei Asia\], [Advanced Machine Intelligence (AMI)](https://amilabs.xyz/?ref=japanearthobserver.com). LeCun is a legend in AI circles, and he has been leading AI research at Meta/Facebook for more than a decade, but he left in late 2025 to start AMI. He's convinced that we're collectively investing far too much on LLMs, and if we're going to see continued progress with AI, we need to be building more models of the physical world. He's not the only one that feels this way. AI pioneer and fellow legend, Fei Fei Li, has started World Labs. NVIDIA has developed its own Omniverse model. Mujin is building an AI-based OS for industrial robots. John Hanke's Niantic Spatial, Google DeepMind's Genie and SIMA, and a new startup founded by Jeff Bezos and Vikram Bajaj Project Prometheus have all joined the fray. Successful development of 3D world models trained to operate based on the characteristics of the physical world could help with scientific discovery, industrial automation, robotics, and a range of other activities that LLMs cannot currently address. For Toyota the interest is likely factory automation as well as autonomous vehicles. - A team lead by **Tellus (株式会社Tellus)** has been awarded [a JAXA Space Strategy Fund contract](https://www.spcsft.com/news/3874/?ref=japanearthobserver.com) \[SPACE SHIFT\] under the theme “Advanced Technologies to Accelerate Utilization of Earth Environment Satellite Data”. Tellis will develop the satellite data platform and compute infrastructure elements while other team members **Degas Co.**, **NEC**, and **SPACE SHIFT** will provide AI and satellite data analytics. The team aims to develop an AI foundation model using Japanese environmental satellite data and other datasets, platform infrastructure, and a monetization and profit-sharing framework for data contributors. - **SUiCTE Co.**, a startup developing semiconductor image sensors and cameras for satellites, [closed a seed funding round of ¥140 million (\~US$ 933,000](https://spacemedia.jp/news/18061?ref=japanearthobserver.com) \[SpaceMedia\], with investors including Quantum Leap Ventures and Incubate Fund. Founded in 2024, SUiCTE is led by imaging sensor researchers from Shizuoka University. The funding will be used to formally launch commercial development of satellite-grade semiconductor image sensors and cameras, building toward a domestic supply infrastructure for space sensing technology and global market expansion. - **Sakana AI** announced a slew of new investment and strategic partnerships: - [Strategic partnership with Datadog](https://sakana.ai/datadog/?ref=japanearthobserver.com), a cloud monitoring and security platform, aimed at collaborating to pursue joint research, contribute to open source software, and pursue work with large enterprises. - [Strategic investment from Citigroup](https://sakana.ai/citi/?ref=japanearthobserver.com) (shockingly, this is apparently Citi’s first ever investment in a Japanese company). The investment will help Sakan accelerate international expansion and product development related to financial services. Sakana has existing strategic partnerships with other major financial services firms, including **Mitsubishi UFJ Financial Group (MUFG)** and **Daiwa Securities Group** and investment from Spain’s Santander Group. - [Strategic investment from Salesforce Ventures](https://sakana.ai/salesforce-ventures/?ref=japanearthobserver.com) that will support evaluating potential integration of Sakana AI’s enterprise AI technology with the Salesforce platform. Salesforce has been an active investor in Japan’s technology ecosystem since 2011. - [Strategic investment from Google](https://sakana.ai/google/?ref=japanearthobserver.com) that will enable Sakana to more easily use Google Gemini models while still allowing Sakana to use others. Sakana will also be able to make its products available on the Google Cloud infrastructure for financial and government customers, where security concerns are significant. - *Why does this matter?* Co-founder and CEO, David Ho, is a former Googler that left in 2023 to start Sakana AI. Sakana was [already valued at ¥400 billion (\~US $2.6 billion) in November 2025](https://asia.nikkei.com/business/technology/artificial-intelligence/sakana-ai-takes-crown-as-japan-s-most-valuable-unicorn?ref=japanearthobserver.com) \[Nikkei Asia\] after raising a Series B round of ¥20 billion (\~US $133 million) in new funds from Mitsubishi UFJ, Santander Group, Shikoku Electric Power, In-Q-Tel, and other U.S. venture capital firms, making it the most valuable unlisted company in Japan. Other investors have included Nvidia, Mizuho Financial Group, and Sumitomo Mitsui Financial Group. Despite the recent fundraising success, Sakana has only a tiny fraction of the resources of its U.S. rivals, and it has taken a different approach to building its large language models (LLMs). Rather than developing new general intelligence models from scratch, it has developed LLMs that combine existing models for specialized purposes at far lower cost. Sakana has built an LLM around the specifics of the Japanese language and is using this to build specialized LLM-based finance models for clients like MUFG and Daiwa Securities. It is also extending its work into defense and manufacturing. This combination of regional and enterprise sector focus is similar to French startup Mistral AI and is proving to be successful; unlike most of the U.S. AI hyperscalers (OpenAI, Anthropic, etc.), [Sakana AI expects to turn a profit in 2026](https://asia.nikkei.com/business/technology/artificial-intelligence/sakana-ai-ceo-sees-japan-s-future-in-blend-of-global-local-strengths?ref=japanearthobserver.com) \[Nikkei Asia\]. Sakana leverages multiple LLMs from other firms, such as Google, OpenAI, and leading Chinese models (like DeepSeek, Kimi, GLM, and Qwen), but the new funding from Google will likely grease the skids to using Google Gemini. --- ### Space Strategy Fund Announcements in February 2026 | Theme | | | ------------------------------------------------------------------------ | --------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- | | **宇宙輸送 Space Transportation** | **Awards** | | *Technologies for ensuring safety ofcrewed space transportation systems* | | | Iwaya Giken | Pressurized cabin and crew systems (ECLSS) for general purpose crewed spacecraft | | Space Systems Development Co. | Pressurized cabin ECLSS technology to ensure the safety of crewed space transportation | | Innovative Space Carrier | Technologies for visualization, detection, and evacuation to support the safety of crewed space transportation | | Mitsubishi Heavy Industries | Demonstration of anomaly detection and emergency evacuation to ensure the safety of crewed space transportation | ### 🛰️ Technology and Infrastructure - **JAXA’s** HTV-X1 cargo ship, docked at the ISS since October,departed without incident on 6 Mar 2026\. Following the release from the ISS, the [HTV-X1 will enter a three-month free-flight phase](https://global.jaxa.jp/press/2026/02/20260219-1%5Fe.html?ref=japanearthobserver.com) dedicated to technology demonstration missions, comprising four experiments: H-SSOD (HTV-X Small Satellite Orbital Deployer), Mt. FUJI (MulTiple reFlector Unit from Jaxa Investigation), DELIGHT (DEployable LIGHtweight planar antenna Technology demonstration), and SDX (Space solar cell Demonstration system on HTV-X). These demonstrations aim to validate key technologies for future space infrastructure including deployable antennas, advanced solar cells, and small satellite deployment mechanisms. The HTV-X will first raise its orbit to 500km to test H-SSOD and Mt FUJI over the next few weeks and then descend again to a lower orbit to test DELIGHT and SDX for two months. ![04-htv-x1-post-iss-plan-jaxa.png](https://storage.ghost.io/c/54/e9/54e9159b-1345-41dd-b7dd-180de33edc5b/content/images/2026/03/04-htv-x1-post-iss-plan-jaxa.png) HTV-X1 mission overview after departure from ISS. Source: JAXA - **SPACE ONE**’s [third launch of the Kairos rocket failed on 5 March](https://www.space.com/space-exploration/private-spaceflight/japan-startup-space-one-kairos-third-launch?ref=japanearthobserver.com) \[Space.com\] about 69 seconds into its flight when the self-destruct flight safety system (自立破壊安全飛行システム) destroyed the vehicle. The cause is not clear as the flight showed all systems operating normally until the self-destruct mechanism activated, so it’s possible the failure was in the mechanism itself. The 18 meter Kairos rocket is designed to lift about 150kg to sun synchronous orbit. The initial stages are solid fueled and the final boost stage is liquid fueled. When Kairos-3 blew up, it was in the middle of the stage one burn, about 29km altitude and due south of the launch point over the Pacific. There were no injuries but five experimental satellites from ArkEdge Space, the Taiwan Space Agency and others were lost. - *Why does this matter?* With the JAXA flagship H3 rocket grounded after a January launch failure, Japan currently has neither public nor private launch options, and given the desire to both have a sovereign domestic launch capability and the capacity to support a 30 launch per year cadence, this must be a distressing juncture. ![05-kairos-3-launch.png](https://storage.ghost.io/c/54/e9/54e9159b-1345-41dd-b7dd-180de33edc5b/content/images/2026/03/05-kairos-3-launch.png) The initial moments after the KAIROS-3 launch. Source: Spaceport Kii Regional Cooperation Council - **Insurance for Rocket Scientists:** When the new parliament convenes again in February, the [government will introduce a bill to loosen the rules on rocket mishap damage payouts](https://asia.nikkei.com/business/aerospace-defense-industries/japan-to-loosen-rules-for-rocket-crash-damage-payouts%20?ref=japanearthobserver.com) \[Nikkei Asia\]. It's not uncommon for seemingly minor laws and regulations to shape an entire industry, and this is a story about how a nuance in an insurance law designed to support rocket development is making it harder for rocketry startups to get off the ground (ha ha). Designing and building rockets is hard and carries a fair amount of risk. Rockets often explode, particularly in the early stages of developing a new one. So rocket launch companies purchase private insurance to cover potential damage or injury caused by a rocket launch, but it's not unlimited, and the cost rises rapidly as the value of the insurance goes up. So in order to support this high risk endeavor, the Japanese government offers to cover excess liability insurance if the amount of damage exceeds that covered by private insurance. Under the current law, excess liability coverage by the government only applies when a rocket is carrying a real satellite payload. But when a new rocket design is being tested, the chance of blowing up is high, and if it fails, you don't want to lose a valuable payload as well. This makes early stage rocket tests more expensive to insure (or mandates that they carry a payload). And the Japanese government wants companies designing and testing new rockets. Rocket companies tend to develop faster when they fail, learn, and iterate rapidly and at low cost. So a small change to the law may save a lot of money and remove a ot of uncertainty for rocket startups. Nice people doing nice things for the rocket scientists. - In case you are wondering if this type of industry risk-sharing support is unique to Japan, it is not. I haven't done a global survey, but under the Commercial Space Launch Act, the U.S. government offers the same type of support. The FAA (which licenses U.S. rocket launches) requires launch companies to carry insurance for the maximum probable loss (MPL). But if there is a catastrophe and damage exceeds the MPL amount, the government will step in to cover additional claims. ![06-momo2-rocket-jiji-press.jpg](https://storage.ghost.io/c/54/e9/54e9159b-1345-41dd-b7dd-180de33edc5b/content/images/2026/03/06-momo2-rocket-jiji-press.jpg) Momo2 rocket failure. Source: Jiji Press - **ispace (株式会社 ispace)** is having engine trouble. They have been developing a new engine called "VoidRunner" in a collaboration with Agile Space Industries (ASI), but they revealed in a recent earnings call that the hot fire test cycles are not meeting the performance and fuel efficiency (specific impulse) ispace needs. They plan to use this engine to support the APEX 1.0 lander (aka Mission 3) its U.S. subsidiary is building for Draper under an US$86 million NASA CLPS contract and expected to launch in 2027\. It may also delay Mission 4, being built in Japan and currently expected to launch in 2028\. While ispace is saying it won't affect the total contract revenue it expects to earn, it has reduced its FY2026 revenue projections by 40%. And if the schedule slips further, they may have to consider alternative engine options. On the plus side, in January ispace was awarded a significant contract under JAXA's Space Strategy Fund that will include transfer of precision landing technology used in JAXA's SLIM lander. This \~US$136 million award will become Mission 6\. In addition to this funding, the European Space Agency has also awarded the ispace EU subsidiary \~US$76 million to build the MAGPIE payload that will ride on the Mission 6 lander. - ispace earnings call slides: [https://ssl4.eir-parts.net/doc/9348/tdnet/2755603/00.pdf](https://ssl4.eir-parts.net/doc/9348/tdnet/2755603/00.pdf?ref=japanearthobserver.com) - ispace earnings call transcript: [https://ssl4.eir-parts.net/doc/9348/ir\_material\_for\_fiscal\_ym3/198665/00.pdf](https://ssl4.eir-parts.net/doc/9348/ir%5Fmaterial%5Ffor%5Ffiscal%5Fym3/198665/00.pdf?ref=japanearthobserver.com) ![07-ispace-lander-schedule.png](https://storage.ghost.io/c/54/e9/54e9159b-1345-41dd-b7dd-180de33edc5b/content/images/2026/03/07-ispace-lander-schedule.png) ispace lander development overview. Source: ispace - **MIERUNE (株式会社MIERUNE)** has [released Kumoy](https://www.kumoy.io/%20?ref=japanearthobserver.com) (くもい), a new software tool that extends the open source QGIS platform to help user and teams publish maps to the web and manage data in the cloud. QGIS is a desktop geospatial data visualization and management platform. While it can make use of data stored online, it's not always a seamless process. MIERUNE has been building plugins for QGIS for many years, and they have leveraged this experience to make Kumoy. The new software aims to make team data management collaboration as well as cloud data storage and management seamless. This seems to be aimed at a Japanese audience and MIERUNE has committed to using domestic Japanese data centers for storing data. ![08-mierune-kumoy-screenshot.png](https://storage.ghost.io/c/54/e9/54e9159b-1345-41dd-b7dd-180de33edc5b/content/images/2026/03/08-mierune-kumoy-screenshot.png) Screenshot of Kumoy application. Source: Mierune - **Preferred Networks (PFN)**, a leading Japanese AI firm, [released CuPy v14, a major update to its open source GPU-accelerated array computing library](https://www.preferred.jp/ja/news/pr20260219?ref=japanearthobserver.com). The library is widely used for AI and machine learning workloads within the Python data science ecosystem. The new version adds support for NumPy 2 (a numerical computation library); better compatibility with other GPU-enabled Python libraries like PyTorch; and support for the latest AMD GPUs - **JAXA** plans to [carry out flight tests of an experimental reusable rocket RV-X](https://aviationweek.com/space/launch-vehicles-propulsion/jaxa-test-vertical-landing-reusable-vehicle-demonstrator?ref=japanearthobserver.com) \[Aviation Week\] on 7 Mar and 14 Mar. The technology has been under development since 2017 with ground engine testing since 2018\. RV-X uses hydrolox engines (liquid hydrogen fuel with liquid oxygen as oxidizer) (液体酸素／液体水素) as liquid hydrogen provides higher specific impulse than more conventional kerosene or methane engines. The primary objective is to develop reusable engine technology and work through the complexities of safely handling liquid hydrogen fuel. Japan has done reusable launch vehicle development in the past. The HOPE-X program aimed to build a 10 ton, 13.4 m reusable space plane that could be launched to orbit atop an H-IIA rocket and then return to Earth for refurbishment and reuse. The concept was similar to the NASA Space Shuttle, but scaled down significantly with no plans for crewed missions. Beginning in 1994 Japan followed an incremental, step-by-step technology development process, developing four prototypes before canceling the program 2003\. Similar concepts have since been developed in the U.S. as the [Boeing X-37B](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Boeing%5FX-37?ref=japanearthobserver.com) (\~9 m length and 4.5 m wingspan) and in China as the [Shenlong space plane](https://www.space.com/space-exploration/launches-spacecraft/chinas-mysterious-shenlong-space-plane-recently-launched-on-its-4th-mission-what-is-it-doing-up-there?ref=japanearthobserver.com) \[Space.com\]. In a separate effort aimed at building a [reusable sounding rocket](https://ja.wikipedia.org/wiki/%E5%86%8D%E4%BD%BF%E7%94%A8%E3%83%AD%E3%82%B1%E3%83%83%E3%83%88%E5%AE%9F%E9%A8%93?ref=japanearthobserver.com) \[Wikiepdia\] (観測ロケット), starting in 1998 ISAS developed the Reusable Vehicle Testing (RVT) (再使用ロケット実験) concept aimed at launching small payloads (100kg) to 100 km altitude. Four progressively larger and more complex rockets were developed and each tested multiple times. While never put into production use, the work led directly to the current RV-X, which began development in 2017. The upcoming tests will be short vertical hops at [Noshiro Rocket Testing Center](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Noshiro%5FRocket%5FTesting%5FCenter?ref=japanearthobserver.com) (能代ロケット実験場). RV-X will lift off vertically to 10m, move horizontally 15m and then land. The short 7-day turnaround between the two tests is aimed at developing rapid inspection and refurbishment processes that support reusability. These short hop tests are similar to the "Grasshopper" tests in the early stages of the SpaceX Falcon 9 development. Some of the RV-X technology will be integrated into a second test vehicle called [CALLISTO](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/CALLISTO?ref=japanearthobserver.com) \[Wikipedia\] being developed in collaboration with France space agency CNES and Germany space agency DLR for potential flight testing in early 2027 from the Guiana Space Centre. ![09-jaxa-rv-x-reusable.jpg](https://storage.ghost.io/c/54/e9/54e9159b-1345-41dd-b7dd-180de33edc5b/content/images/2026/03/09-jaxa-rv-x-reusable.jpg) RV-X vertical takeoff/vertical landing test vehicle. Source: JAXA - **ARKEdge Space**, **AxelSpace**, **Cross U**, and Africa-focused venture capital firm **Double Feather Partners** have set up a [consortium aimed at developing space business opportunities in African markets](https://arkedgespace.com/news/2026-02-19%5Fxu?ref=japanearthobserver.com) \[ArkEdge\]. They want to move beyond the traditional ODA frameworks toward commercially sustainable business models. The first project between AxelSpace and Jethi Software Development in Ethiopia to develop satellite data applications for agricultural productivity, forest conservation, and urban planning is already underway. ARKEdge Space is contributing its expertise in IoT satellite manufacturing and satellite data integration for food security and drought-related applications, and it already has MOUs with three African nations. The consortium plans visits to Africa in April 2026 and plans to report any new outcomes at the "NIHONBASHI SPACE WEEK 2026" event in November 2026.. - **Dynamic Map Platform (DMP) (ダイナミックマッププラットフォーム株式会社)**, a firm that creates high-precision 3D map data for autonomous vehicles and logistics, has [completed road coverage in Canada](https://www.dynamic-maps.co.jp/news/news-1352/?ref=japanearthobserver.com) \[DMP\], bringing the global coverage to 1.8 million km (\~1.12 million miles). - **Innovative Space Carrier (ISC) (将来宇宙輸送システム株式会社)** has [started operations at a new factory facility](https://innovative-space-carrier.co.jp/news/20260210%5F1?ref=japanearthobserver.com) \[ISC\] within the Mitsubishi Logistics Corporation (MLC) SPACE LAB in Minamisoma City, Fukushima Prefecture. The new facility will help accelerate development of reusable rocket technologies by establishing a landing technology verification platform and building a local aerospace supply chain in Fukushima. ISC is trying to achieve a launch demonstration by FY2027\. - *Side note:* the MLC SPACE LAB was opened in 2025 and also hosts a manufacturing facility for **ElevationSpace.** - **iQPS** was able to [recover commercial operations on QPS-SAR-5](https://i-qps.net/news/3446/?ref=japanearthobserver.com) (“Tuskuyomi-I”). After a communications systems failure in Sept 2024, engineers were able to partially restore some capability in July 2025, but have now restored full image commercial capture capacity. This is kind of extraordinary as it's rare to recover after a major system failure on a small satellite. Kudos to the engineering team. And I bet they got a lot of good data on how to improve future satellites. - **Pale Blue** has [started operations at its new production engineering facility in Tsukuba](https://pale-blue.co.jp/news/1343/?ref=japanearthobserver.com) \[Pale Blue\], Ibaraki Prefecture. The new facility will help Pale Blue scale manufacturing capacity of its water ion and Hall thruster propulsion systems. The facility brings the full engineering life-cycle under one roof, including production engineering, cleanroom manufacturing, vacuum chamber testing, vibration testing, final inspection, and global shipping. Consolidating everything in a single facility will reduce lead times and substantially increase throughput to address growing global demand from small satellite operators and integrators. - **Weathernews Inc. (WNI)** launched a new enterprise Business Continuity Plan (BCP) service [aimed at helping businesses track employee safety during a disaster](https://jp.weathernews.com/news/54991/?ref=japanearthobserver.com) (安否確認の機能). The new service is not limited to weather and covers a comprehensive set of disaster triggers – earthquake, tsunami, typhoon, heavy rainfall and snowfall, and storm surge – and spans the full BCP timeline from pre-disaster safety confirmation through personnel tracking during a disaster to post-disaster recovery planning. It also leverages Starlink satellite connectivity for scenarios in which the terrestrial cellular networks fail. The system supports location-aware notifications to employees, leverages the "Weathernews" consumer app (50M downloads) as the employee-facing interface, and provides management dashboards overlaying real-time weather data with prioritized personnel location maps. - **AALTO** is planning a [new high altitude platform service (HAPS) flight operations hub (an AALTOPORT) in northern Australia](https://www.spacewar.com/reports/AALTO%5Fplans%5FZephyr%5Fstratospheric%5Fhub%5Fin%5Fnorthern%5FAustralia%5Fand%5Fseeks%5Flocal%5Fpayload%5Fpartners%5F999.html?ref=japanearthobserver.com) \[Space War News\]. It plans to launch its solar-powered Zephyr planes from the new hub and operate them in the stratosphere (20 - 25km) over Australia and the Asia Pacific region. The company's initial testing site was in Kenya, but a northern Australia site would enable it to reach Japan as well as Indonesia, Philippines, and other SE Asia sites far more rapidly. The Zephyr planes are designed to stay aloft for up to 90 days, providing 4G and 5G mobile network coverage that can be particularly useful for both remote locations and disaster scenarios. AALTO is an Airbus subsidiary, but a consortium of Japanese businesses (**NTT DOCOMO**, **Space Compass**, **Mizuho Bank**, and **Development Bank of Japan**) committed to a US $100 million investment in AALTO in June 2024, and **NTT DOCOMO** and **Space Compass** have already supported successful demonstrations of the technology. - *Why does this matter?* While the Japanese companies trot out the usual disaster response bromides that are used to justify many projects in Japan, the Zephyr project was originally spun out of the UK Ministry of Defense, and it has clear dual-use applications that would support rapid deployment for intelligence, surveillance and reconnaissance (ISR) purposes as well. - These are pretty amazing planes. One 60-75kg Zephyr has a 25 m wingspan and can carry a 5-8kg payload. For a mobile communications mission, it can replace 250 cell towers and serve up to 100,000 people across a 7,500 sq km area. With an Earth observation payload, it can capture 18cm high resolution imagery over a 20km x 30km swath. - Vast announced a $500 million [investment round to continue development of its commercial space station, Haven](https://www.vastspace.com/updates/vast-secures-500m-in-funding-to-accelerate-production-of-haven-space-stations?ref=japanearthobserver.com) \[Vast\]. The investment round was led by Balerion Space Ventures and included Japanese firms Mitsui & Co., MUFG, and Nikon as well as IQT, Qatar Investment Authority, Stellar Ventures, Space Capital, Earthrise Ventures and founder Jed McCaleb. Vast is arguably ahead of the other commercial space station developers with a Haven Demo launch and deorbit in 2025 and Haven-1 on track for launch in 2027\. The enterprise has already had $1 billion invested to date, but all of it was from McCaleb. So the new financing is really a Series A and includes $300 million in equity and $200 million in debt. - *Why does this matter?* The large institutional Japanese investors are significant and now mean that Japanese firms are major investors on every significant commercial space station effort in Europe and North America. It also follows closely on the heels of Vast opening a Japan subsidiary, Vast Japan, lead by former JAXA astronaut Yamazaki Naoko as its first General Manager. The other Japanese partner is Japan Manned Space Systems Corporation (JAMSS), which has signed an agreement to host a scientific research equipment module on Vast's Haven-1 station. ![10-vast-haven-1-integration.jpg](https://storage.ghost.io/c/54/e9/54e9159b-1345-41dd-b7dd-180de33edc5b/content/images/2026/03/10-vast-haven-1-integration.jpg) Haven-1 integration process. Source: Vast ### 🔭 Science - **University of Tokyo** Professor Watanave Hidenori has developed a [series of data sets and 3D displays of historical events](https://blog.bentley.com/insights/the-future-of-memory-japanese-professor-uses-3d-technology-to-redefine-how-we-experience-history/?ref=japanearthobserver.com) \[Cesium/Bentley\] using the 3D Tiles open standard and the open source CesiumJS viewer. His effort to turn digital archives into interactive 3D models includes archives at [Hiroshima](https://hiroshima.archiving.jp/?ref=japanearthobserver.com) and [Nagasaki](https://n.mapping.jp/?ref=japanearthobserver.com), Ukraine war damage, the Gaza conflict, and, most recently, the [Great East Japan Earthquake](https://en.wasurenai.mapping.jp/?ref=japanearthobserver.com). Watanave began his career as an engineer at Sony. As gaming culture exploded in the 1990s, he returned to academia to experiment with telling stories using interactive maps. In the long run, he imagines a global memory map that brings together digital archives from every corner of the planet. ![11-u-tokyo-watanave-3d-history-memory.jpg](https://storage.ghost.io/c/54/e9/54e9159b-1345-41dd-b7dd-180de33edc5b/content/images/2026/03/11-u-tokyo-watanave-3d-history-memory.jpg) Screenshots of Watanave’s interactive digital archives. Source: Cesium/Bentley ### 🗺️ International Collaborations - **Space Data (株式会社スペースデータ)** announced a [collaboration with the United Nations Industrial Development Organization (UNIDO) to support disaster recovery and national resilience in Brazil's Rio Grande do Sul state](https://spacedata.jp/news/202602%5FUNIDO?ref=japanearthobserver.com). The initiative will leverage satellite data, artificial intelligence, and digital twin technology to strengthen the state's resilience against future disasters. - **Tenchijin (株式会社 天地)** completed a [water pipe leakage risk diagnostic proof-of-concept](https://tenchijin.co.jp/pressrelease/10303/?ref=japanearthobserver.com) in the Kingdom of Cambodia, carried out under a JICA-funded water supply project in Phnom Penh. The project combined satellite data, Tenchijin’s AI models, and pipe and leak repair records. The project confirmed that the data is good enough to support a production system and that Tenchijin’s techniques are applicable in other ODA-funded infrastructure programs. That will open a path to international expansion in partnership with JICA. - **SKY Perfect JSAT (株式会社スカイパーJSAT)** has become the [first Japanese reseller of thermal infrared satellite imagery data from German startup constellr](https://www.skyperfectjsat.space/jp/news/20260202%5F2?ref=japanearthobserver.com). Thermal imager can support agriculture crop stress monitoring, urban heat island analysis, industrial facility monitoring, and environmental assessments. SKY Perfect JSAT is trying to diversify its business with a portfolio of Earth observation data offerings. ![12-constellr-thermal-infrared-yokohama-harbor.png](https://storage.ghost.io/c/54/e9/54e9159b-1345-41dd-b7dd-180de33edc5b/content/images/2026/03/12-constellr-thermal-infrared-yokohama-harbor.png) Yokohama harbor as seen from above by constellr thermal infrared sensor. Source: constellr - The **Japanese government** is [drawing up international recommendations to curb space debris in cislunar space](https://www.straitstimes.com/asia/east-asia/japan-aims-to-draw-up-intl-recommendation-to-curb-space-debris-near-moon?ref=japanearthobserver.com) \[Straits Times\] and is aiming to make the recommendations official at the next gathering of Artemis Accords signatories, possibly in autumn 2026\. The Japanese proposal will likely include urging all parties to avoid discarding any objects, carefully selecting lunar location when taking down a satellite or other object, and advance planned for disposal of landers and rovers. It's unlikely that in the current geopolitical environment any consensus will turn this into international law, but from a pragmatic perspective, a set of guidelines that everyone follows would be just as good as a treaty. - *Why does this matter?* While there are at least 1.2 million objects orbiting the Earth, much of the satellite and rocket debris around the Earth will eventually decay, particularly in low Earth orbit (LEO) where atmospheric drag will gradually reduce the orbit height unless a satellite or station takes steps to raise the orbit. However, the Moon has no atmosphere and there is no natural mechanism for disposal. So Japan, which is a leader on Earth orbit debris mitigation, wants to develop consensus amongst the spacefaring nations about limiting debris before it becomes a problem. - *The opposite of International Collaboration would be a trade war.* On 24 Feb China imposed export controls on a swath of Japanese companies and government agencies and added twenty more to a "watch list". The export control list includes subsidiaries of **Mitsubishi Heavy Industries**, **Kawasaki Heavy Industries**, **Fujitsu**, **IHI**, **NEC**, and even **JAXA**, a government agency. The watch list will require applications from Chinese exporters and includes **Itochu Aviation**, **Fuji Aerospace**, **Mitsui Bussan Aerospace**, **Mitsubishi Materials**, **Sumitomo Heavy Industries,** and other major manufacturers. While the announcement is aimed at Japan's defense industry, it covers "dual use" items and that covers pretty much anything related to satellites or rockets, so the potential impact on the civilian space ecosystem is likely to be significant. ## 📆 Asia-Pacific Conferences & Events This newsletter is mostly focused on Japan, but I also like to highlight events across the Asia-Pacific region. Some upcoming conferences in 2026 include: **March 2026** - [ISAS Sounding Rocket Symposium](https://www.isas.jaxa.jp/researchers/symposium/sounding%5Frocket/fy%5F2025.html?ref=japanearthobserver.com) (観測ロケットシンポジウム) - 12 - 13 Mar - JAXA Sagamihara Campus, Japan (Hybrid) - [Cross U Space Future Forum](https://www.crossu.org/event/260316im/?ref=japanearthobserver.com) \- 13 Mar - Nihonbashi, Tokyo, Japan - [Committee on Earth Observation Satellites (CEOS) Disaster and Information Services Working Group Meetings](https://ceos.org/meetings/wgdisasters-25-wgiss-61/?ref=japanearthobserver.com) \- 16 - 20 Mar - Dehradun, Uttarakhand,India - Commercial Space Conference and Exhibition - 17 - 18 Mar - Shenzhen, China - [Tottori Rover Challenge 2026](https://www.tottori-rover-challenge.com/?ref=japanearthobserver.com) (鳥取ローバーチャレンジ2026) - 19 - 21 Mar - Tottori, Japan - [Convergence India Expo](https://www.convergenceindia.org/?ref=japanearthobserver.com) \- 23 - 25 Mar - New Delhi, India - [Space Technology Conference Central Eurasia (STC)](https://www.spacetechnologyconference.com/?ref=japanearthobserver.com) \- 30 Mar - 1 Apr, Tashkent Uzbekhistan - [GEO Connect Asia 2026](https://www.geoconnectasia.com/?ref=japanearthobserver.com) \- 31 Mar - 1 Apr - Singapore - [Drones and Uncrewed Asia 2026](https://www.geoconnectasia.com/drones-uncrewed-asia?ref=japanearthobserver.com) \- 31 Mar - 1 Apr - Singapore **April 2026** - [57th Japan Society for Aeronautical and Space Sciences (JSASS) Annual Lectures](https://smartconf.jp/content/57nenkai/?ref=japanearthobserver.com) (日本航空宇宙学会第57期 年会講演会) - 15 - 17 April - Osaka University Toyonaka Campus, Osaka, Japan - [International Conference on Spacecraft Mission Operations (SMOPS)](https://smops.asindia.org/?ref=japanearthobserver.com) \- 8-10 Apr - Bengaluru, India - International Conference on Advances in Aerospace and Energy Systems (IAES-2026) - 16-18 Apr - Mahendragiri, Tamil Nadu, India - 11th China Space Day - 24 April - TBD, China - marks anniversary of China’s first satellite launch, Dongfanghong-1 in 1970 **May 2026** - [Asia-Pacific Regional IAU Meeting (APRIM)](https://aprim2026.org/?ref=japanearthobserver.com) \- 4 - 8 May - Hong Kong, China - [Asia-Pacific Satellite International Conference](https://apsat.assi.or.id/?ref=japanearthobserver.com) \- 12 - 13 May - Jakarta, Indonesia - [Global Space and Technology Convention & Exhibition (GSTCE)](https://www.space.org.sg/gstce/?ref=japanearthobserver.com) \- 13 - 14 May - Singapore - [International Symposium on Remote Sensing (ISRS) 2026](https://www.rssj.or.jp/isrs2026/?ref=japanearthobserver.com) \- 13 - 15 May - Matsue, Shimane-ken, Japan - [CommunicAsia 2026](https://asiatechxsg.com/communicasia/?ref=japanearthobserver.com) \- 20 - 22 May - Singapore - [Geo-Space Bharat 2026](https://geospacebharat.org/?ref=japanearthobserver.com) \- 21 - 22 May - Ahmedabad, Gujarat - [SatelliteAsia 2026 (at Asia Tech x Singapore (ATxSG))](https://asiatechxsg.com/satelliteasia/?ref=japanearthobserver.com) \- 20 - 22 May - Singapore - [Japan Geoscience Union (JpGU)-AGU Joint Meeting 2026](https://www.jpgu.org/meeting%5Fe2026/?ref=japanearthobserver.com) \- 24–29 May - Chiba, Japan - [3rd SPEXA Space Business Expo (宇宙ビジネス展)](https://www.spexa.jp/tokyo/ja-jp.html?ref=japanearthobserver.com) \- 27 - 29 May - Tokyo, Japan #### Recent Videos - 11th National Space Policy Secretariat Symposium \[[English](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=bxjJA4R4xLM&ref=japanearthobserver.com)\] \[[Japanese](https://youtube.com/live/hoKFrRYlsdQ?ref=japanearthobserver.com)\] - *only available until the end of March 2026* - 2025 JAXA Space Exploration Open Innovation Forum \[[Japanese](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ABtJ3s8VrCs&ref=japanearthobserver.com)\] - SPACE ONE KAIROS-3 launch \[[Japanese](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ZGaimti4hCE&ref=japanearthobserver.com)\] - HTV-X1 departs from ISS for experiment mission \[[Japanese](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=d3iQGA%5F%5FpOU&ref=japanearthobserver.com)\] - RV-X hop Press Conference \[[Japanese](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=jHAcFcElsnw%20&ref=japanearthobserver.com)\] - # --- If you’ve made it this far, thank you for reading. Please be in touch [via LinkedIn](https://www.linkedin.com/in/rcheetham/?ref=japanearthobserver.com) with any feedback, questions, comments, or requests for future topics. And if you have a friend or colleague that you think would enjoy JEO, please share it! Until next time, Robert --- The snow is melting and the village is flooded with children. \-- Author: Kobayashi Issa (1763–1828) - translated by Robert Hassn 雪とけて 村一ぱいの 子どもかな *yuki tokete* *mura ippai no* *kodomo kana* ### JEO 11 - News Roundup - 20 Feb 2026 URL: https://www.japanearthobserver.com/jeo-11-news-roundup-20-feb-2026/ Last updated: 2026-03-14T02:06:24.000Z *Welcome to Japan Earth Observer (JEO), a free monthly newsletter with a news roundup and one in-depth article about the space, Earth observation and geospatial industries in Japan.* In this news roundup from January and early February, there are a pile of funding, contract, and partnership announcements as well as a flurry of Year 2 Space Strategy Fund awards. On to the news… ## News & Announcements ### 💱 Contracts and Funding - **Japan’s Ministry of Defense (JMoD)** has [awarded a major contract to a consortium led by Mitsubishi Electric](https://news.satnews.com/2025/12/29/japan-ministry-of-defense-taps-synspective-mitsubishi-electric-consortium-for-satellite-constellation/?ref=japanearthobserver.com) \[SatNews\] to build a new satellite constellation for defense and intelligence imagery. This is a key JMoD project that will be operating for the next several years. The [RFP and bidding process for the new system](https://www.japanearthobserver.com/jeo-5-jmod-goes-shopping/#jmod-satellite-infrastructure-investments) \[JEO 5\] began last spring, and the initial contract will run through March 2031\. JMoD will not control or operate the constellation directly. Rather, Mitsubishi Electric and two other consortium members, Mitsui & Co. (a trading company) and SKY Perfect JSAT, will create a Special Purpose Company (SPC) that will own and operate the constellation. JMoD will have first access to all imagery, but the consortium will also be able to sell excess capacity in the commercial marketplace. The consortium combines long-established, incumbent firms like Mitsubishi Electric and Mitsui with agile startups iQPS, Synspective, and Axelspace in the hopes of cultivating rapid technical development. Presumably, iQPS and Synspective will provide the SAR capacity and Axelspace will provide the multi-spectral optical. - **ispace** has been [awarded a JAXA contract to study lunar debris concerns](https://ispace-inc.com/news-en/?p=8407&ref=japanearthobserver.com). Old satellites, collision effects, expended rocket bodies, and other detritus already clutters low Earth orbit (LEO). However, the Earth's gravity and atmosphere will eventually pull much of this debris to burn up in the atmosphere. The moon, however, is much smaller and has no atmosphere, and it won't take much debris to make lunar orbit a dangerous proposition. The United Nations’ Committee on the Peaceful Uses of Outer Space (COPUOS) and other organizations have been developing guidelines for reduction of LEO orbital debris, but there are no such guidelines for either the lunar surface or orbits. JAXA's contract anticipates this future challenge as an increasing number of landers and orbiters head to the moon. - **Astroscale France** and French company Exotrail announced a [partnership to develop deorbiting capabilities for low Earth orbit satellites](https://www.astroscale.com/ja/news/astroscale-france-and-exotrail-join-forces-to-build-deorbiting-capability?ref=japanearthobserver.com) \[Astroscale\]. This partnership combines Astroscale's spacecraft design and mission operations expertise with Exotrail's advanced electric propulsion systems. The partnership will aim to provide cost-effective deorbiting services for constellation operators who must comply with evolving debris mitigation regulations. They are aiming to fly their first mission together before 2030. - **Synspective** and Airbus Defence and Space have [signed a data framework agreement that will add Synspective's SAR data capture capabilities into Airbus's EO portfolio](https://synspective.com/press-release/2026/airbus%5Fpartnership/?ref=japanearthobserver.com) \[Synspective\], building on the existing Airbus SAR satellites (TerraSAR-X, TanDEM-X, and PAZ). Synspective provides relatively high resolution (25 cm), inclined orbits that improve coverage of equatorial regions, and increasing revisit cadence as they build toward a 30-satellite constellation by 2028. - **iQPS** closed a [syndicated 5-year loan agreement for ¥6.2 billion (\~US $40 million)](https://i-qps.net/news/3394/?ref=japanearthobserver.com) \[iQPS\] to continue scaling of its SAR satellite constellation, including manufacturing, launch services, and ground infrastructure development. Mizuho Bank was the lead arranger with almost a dozen additional banks providing funds. - *Why does this matter?* iQPS is a publicly traded company, so it can raise capital by selling shares if it really needs to. However, that would dilute the value of each outstanding share. By borrowing a relatively short-term (5 years) private loan at a low interest rate, it will be able to build out its constellation more rapidly, and thereby begin generating the operating cash it needs to repay the loan. - **Axelspace (アクセルスペース)** got its [contract renewed with the **Geospatial Information Authority of Japan (GSI)**](https://www.axelspace.com/ja/news/gsi%5Fnational-basemap-project/?ref=japanearthobserver.com) **(国土地理院)** to provide its AxelGlobe satellite imagery to national basemap projects managed by the Ministry of Land, Infrastructure, Transport and Tourism (). The contract is a vote of confidence that Axelspace's imagery quality meets government standards for precision and reliability. - **Space BD (株式会社スペースBD)** [closed a ¥2.4 billion (\~US $15.5 million) Series C fundraising round](https://space-bd.com/release/3687/?ref=japanearthobserver.com) \[Space BD\] to support growth of its launch services brokerage business. The round was led by Mitsubishi HC Capital. - Space BD also [signed an MOU with Kick Space Technologies](https://space-bd.com/release/3666/?ref=japanearthobserver.com) to market and sell its satellite components and systems. - **Japan LEO Shachu** (日本低軌道社中) [closed a round of investment from Mitsubishi Heavy Industries and Mitsubishi Electric](https://japan-leo-shachu.com/86/?ref=japanearthobserver.com). The firm was established in July 2024 as a wholly owned subsidiary of Mitsui & Co. to pursue next generation LEO space station components such as a future research module and cargo vessel. The amount of investment or how it will be applied is not clear. --- ### Space Strategy Fund Announcements since January 2026 | Theme | | | ----------------------------------------------------------------------------- | -------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- | | **衛星等 Satellites** | **Awards** | | *Frequency sharing technologies for satellite to ground communication* | | | Rakuten Mobile | [Development and demonstration of dynamic spectrum sharing](https://news.satnews.com/2026/02/16/jaxa-awards-rakuten-mobile-71-9-million-to-advance-satellite-terrestrial-5g-integration/?ref=japanearthobserver.com) \[SatNews\] | | *Technology for orbital transfer, in-orbit refueling, and space logistics* | | | NEC Corporation | Develop of an inter-orbital transport vehicle | | Pale Blue | [Develop ultra-small inter-orbital transport vehicles for cislunar transportation](https://pale-blue.co.jp/news/1313/?ref=japanearthobserver.com) \[Pale Blue\] | | Mitsubishi Electric | Develop a general-purpose inter-orbital transport vehicle utilizing autonomous RPOD technology | | Astroscale | [Develop electric propellant refueling technology for geostationary orbital services](https://www.astroscale.com/ja/news/astroscale-japan-selected-for-jaxas-space-strategy-fund-program?ref=japanearthobserver.com) \[Astroscale\] | | Yokohama National Univ. | Develop interdisciplinary analytical methods for space logistics decision support | | **探査等 Exploration** | **Awards** | | *High-precision landing technology in the lunar polar regions* | | | ispace | [High-precision landing technology for lunar south pole and support for payload activities in the polar regions using a communications relay satellite](https://ispace-inc.com/jpn/news/?p=8440&ref=japanearthobserver.com) \[ispace\] | | *Orbital data center construction technology* | | | SpaceBlast | Build on-orbit data centers using high reliability edge computing | | **分野共通 Common Areas** | **Awards** | | *Solving environmental testing challenges for spacecraft* | | | IMV Corp | Establish an environmental test facility for spacecraft | | High Energy Accelerator Research Organization (KEK) | Develop a proton beamline for single-event evaluation | | Japan Atomic Energy Agency (JAEA) | Develop a spacecraft radiation test facility using the proton beam at J-PARC (a high intensity proton accelerator facility) | | Japan Atomic Energy Agency (JAEA) | Develop radiation test facilities at the JAEA Tokai Tandem Accelerator | | National Research and Development Agency (RIKEN) | Develop advanced semiconductor testing environment with heavy ion beam delivery system | | National Institutes for Quantum and Radiological Science and Technology (QST) | Establish infrastructure for space radiation testing using particle beam therapy equipment | | SEESE Corp. | Build a radiation testing facility | | *SX-CRANE, a space-transfer and new industry seeds creation center* | | | Tokyo Univ. of Marine Science and Technology | Develop next-generation positioning and navigation technology | | Tokyo Univ. of Science | Develop environmental sensors and small payloads for future manned missions to Mars | | Tokyo Univ. of Science | Space medical and habitat development center | | Yamagata Univ. | Innovative Space Gastronomy Technology Development Center (STAR-MEALS) | | Waseda Univ. | Space quality-of-life (QOL) R&D center for civilians living in space | ### 🛰️ Technology and Infrastructure - **JAXA** has released an [interim report on the investigation into the H3 flight 8 failure](https://arstechnica.com/science/2026/01/heres-the-story-of-how-japans-h3-rocket-lost-its-cargo-and-just-kept-going/?ref=japanearthobserver.com) \[Ars Technica\] and the loss of the Michibiki 5 navigation satellite, and it's a master class in expressing both the mechanics and the interim outcome of a launch investigation. In case you haven't been following this incident, Stage 1 completed without a hitch. The problems began when the payload fairing separated. Shortly after, the payload adapter broke off, sending the navigation satellite tumbling off the second stage. As the satellite broke away, fuel pipes supplying the second stage were damaged, causing a pressure loss on the initial burn and then failure of the second burn. Without the full burn of the second stage, nothing reached orbit, everything falling back into the ocean. The [presentation of the interim report](https://www.mext.go.jp/content/20260120-mxt%5Fuchukai01-000046812%5F0002.pdf?ref=japanearthobserver.com) \[JAXA - Japanese\] to the Ministry of Education, Culture, Sports, Science and Technology (MEXT) is remarkable for a combination of transparency and appropriate visualization and detail. I don't think I've ever seen this level of detail in a launch failure investigation debrief, outside perhaps the Challenger space shuttle disaster. Every slide is marked as unchanged, revision, or a new slide. Photos and sensor telemetry graphs are lined up with the results of relevant previous launches. Finally, there is a summary Fault Tree Analysis (FTA) (故障の木解析) organized into primary, secondary, and tertiary failure sources and the status of each branch of the tree. The analysis is careful not to draw conclusions or lay blame on any component for which there is no evidence. In the software engineering world this would be a "blameless postmortem", a structured, post-incident review focusing on systemic, process-driven causes, rather than individual human error. This approach fosters psychological safety, enabling teams to openly discuss failures in a manner that raises the odds of preventing recurrence. - *My take:* When I read these slides, it increases my confidence that JAXA, MHI, Mitsubishi Electric and the other partners will determine a root cause and take steps to mitigate it. This is a high stakes investigation, though. Not only has the Michibiki 7 launch been delayed, the MMX probe launch to Mars is scheduled in late 2026 after a previous 2 year delay due to H3 development problems. And there are cargo supply missions to the ISS planned as well. ![01-h3-investigation-diagram.png](https://storage.ghost.io/c/54/e9/54e9159b-1345-41dd-b7dd-180de33edc5b/content/images/2026/02/01-h3-investigation-diagram-1.png) Diagram of H3 second stage failure on flight 8\. Source: JAXA - **Infostellar** and **Antaris** have announced a [partnership aimed at integrating their cloud-native ground station and satellite mission planning software tooling](https://news.satnews.com/2026/01/21/antaris-and-infostellar-integrate-software-defined-ground-operations-into-mission-planning/?ref=japanearthobserver.com) \[SatNews\]. Antaris provides software to create a digital twin of a satellite and to simulate and manage satellite missions from design through end-of-life. Infostellar's StellarStation software supports scheduling and execution of data downlink and command uplink across diverse ground station networks. This new partnership builds on a [partnership agreement Infostellar made with Japanese technology services firm **Fusic**](https://www.infostellar.net/jp/news/Fusic%5FPartnership?ref=japanearthobserver.com) in November 2025. - *Why does this matter?* While we are all marveling at the magic of orbiting eyes in the sky, a lot of the action is happening on the ground. LEO and MEO satellites are spinning so fast that the data they capture has to be sent down in radio bursts that skip across a network of ground station antennas. The ground segment is often quite complex: it's fragmented across multiple vendors, there is diverse hardware, and antennas operate on a variety of frequency bands (usually X, S, or Ka-band). By integrating StellarStation with Antaris, satellite owners can automate scheduling and execution of data transfers to and from satellites from within the Antaris software interface, streamlining ground station planning. ![02-ksat-svalbard-ground-station-nesdis-noaa.jpg](https://storage.ghost.io/c/54/e9/54e9159b-1345-41dd-b7dd-180de33edc5b/content/images/2026/02/02-ksat-svalbard-ground-station-nesdis-noaa.jpg) Photo of KSAT Svalbard Norway ground station. Source: NOAA NESDIS - **L3Harris** has completed a [critical design review for sensors that will be launched on the **Himwari-10** weather satellite](https://news.satnews.com/2025/12/12/l3harris-technologies-completes-critical-design-review-for-jmas-himawari-10-instruments/?ref=japanearthobserver.com) \[SatNews\] that is expected to be launched in 2030\. The new advanced imager will build on the success of Himawari-9 by adding two new spectral bands to improve water vapor measurement and seven others for enhanced resolution. In addition to Himawari 8/9, the L3Harris Advanced Baseline Imager (ABI) is the same primary payload as the U.S. NOAA GOES-R series (GOES-16, -17, -18, and -19) and Korea's GEO-KOMPSAT-2A. The newest generation of the ABI has 12 spectral bands, rather than 4, 4x the spatial resolution, and 5x the temporal coverage. - *Why does this matter?* The fact that a single supplier, L3Harris, supplies the imager for an entire generation of advanced weather satellites could potentially be a vulnerability, but it means that the weather data collected from East Asia to the Atlantic Ocean can be integrated seamlessly. L3Harris is also clearly not resting on its laurels as it continues to make significant advances in the capabilities of its products. - **Panasonic** has developed a [portable 3D indoor mapping device that costs 80% less and can map an interior space in one-tenth the time](https://asia.nikkei.com/business/technology/panasonic-device-renders-3d-building-maps-with-just-a-walkthrough?ref=japanearthobserver.com) \[Nikkei Asia\] of conventional methods. The 3D laser scanner, branded as @mapper, will be released in February and cost about ¥2 million (\~US$12,600) per unit. The device consists of a handheld wand and a tablet display. While digital building information models (BIM) are common for brand new factories and infrastructure, older facilities often differ substantially from their original blueprints, if any blueprints even exist. If an operator or owner wants to upgrade or make improvements, a digital model of the existing facility makes the design and development process much easier. The ability to rapidly and cheaply create digital 3D models will also be useful for documenting historic sites. - *Why does this matter?* This device is clearly aimed at generating digital documentation for physical facilities. However, laser scanning sensors are a key component of many autonomous vehicles and other robotic devices. Low cost methods for laser scanning will doubtless have applications for scenarios beyond facilities mapping. ![03-panasonic-lidar-mapper.jpg](https://storage.ghost.io/c/54/e9/54e9159b-1345-41dd-b7dd-180de33edc5b/content/images/2026/02/03-panasonic-lidar-mapper.jpg) 3D model of suspension bridge generated with @mapper device. Source: Panasonic Holdings - **Mitsubishi Electric (MELCO) (三菱電機株式会社)** has [selected Terran Orbital's Nebula satellite bus platform](https://news.satnews.com/2026/01/28/terran-orbital-to-provide-nebula-platform-for-mitsubishi-electric-qkd-mission/?ref=japanearthobserver.com) \[SatNews\] for a planned Quantum Key Distribution (QKD) and optical network demonstration satellite. MELCO is working with Japan's National Institute of Information and Communications Technology (NICT) (情報通信研究機構). The quantum keys are aimed at securing the data being transmitted via the optical communications. This is a real feather in Terran Orbital's cap because Mitsubishi Electric already manufactures the reliable, advanced DS-2000 satellite bus. But while Mitsubishi's bus is designed for multi-ton, long lifespan, geostationary satellites, this mission calls for a microsatellite of less than 130kg. The Nebula bus is equipped with large reaction wheels that enable high precision and high accuracy pointing needed for optical links and integrated Hall-effect thrusters for maintaining orbit and later disposal. Further, Terran can deliver on an 18 month timeline. - **UACJ** will invest in new forges in order to [manufacture aluminum rocket fuselage rings in Japan](https://asia.nikkei.com/business/aerospace-defense-industries/japanese-aluminum-king-uacj-to-make-key-h3-rocket-component-at-home?ref=japanearthobserver.com). The objective is to increase the launch cadence of JAXA's medium-heavy lift H3 rocket, a major priority for JAXA. UACJ previously manufactured the aluminum ring structures in Japan for Mitsubishi Heavy Industries for the previous H-IIA rocket model, but the H3 fuselage has a bigger diameter and manufacturing was moved to U.S. suppliers for the H3\. UACJ is the 4th largest aluminum roller in the world and is the largest in Japan with 50% market share. It is the result of a 2013 merger between Furukawa-Sky Aluminum and Sumitomo Light Metal Industries, but the roots of those companies date back to 1897\. In addition to rocket fuselage parts, they also make other structural components for rockets and satellites that require aluminum alloys with high rigidity and low thermal expansion. - *Why does this matter?* On the surface, this decision is unrelated to geopolitics. By manufacturing the parts in Japan, the shipping time and expenses are both reduced, enabling faster turnarounds at lower cost. However, shifting the work to Japan also reduces exchange rate and tariff uncertainty. And it won't be cheap. UACJ expects to invest ¥12 billion (\~US $77 million) to build the new foundry in Oyama and have it running by 2029\. JAXA has agreed to subsidize up to ¥6 billion of the cost. - Vast, one of several efforts to build a commercial space station before the end of the ISS, is [opening a subsidiary, **Vast Japan** and an office in Tokyo](https://www.vastspace.com/updates/vast-expands-to-japan-appointing-naoko-yamazaki-as-general-manager-of-vast-japan-gk?ref=japanearthobserver.com) \[Vast\] and has appointed Yamazaki Naoko to be the first General Manager. Yamazaki is a high octane selection for Vast. She is a former JAXA astronaut that flew as a mission specialist on the STS-131 Space Shuttle Discovery, an assembly and resupply mission to the ISS. She served as a member of the National Space Policy Committee of the Cabinet Office from 2012 to 2022 and currently chairs the Subcommittee on Space Development and Utilization at the Ministry of Education, Culture, Sports, Science and Technology (MEXT). She also co-founded the Space Port Japan Association in 2018 and serves as the Representative Director. While Vast does have **Japan Manned Space Systems Corporation (JAMSS)** as a key partner, it does not currently have any major Japanese investors. However, it clearly sees a market in Japan for hosting commercial payloads in LEO. - **Kokusai Kogyo (KKC) (国際航業株式会社)** has [released Geozén, a cloud native geospatial data platform that integrates disparate business data](https://www.kkc.co.jp/news/release/2026/01/21%5F33930/?ref=japanearthobserver.com) – CRM, sales, images, video, infrastructure, asset management, BIM/CIM – by using geography as the common key. The new product enables customers to combine several isolated data silos into a single unified data lake that can be queried, support applications, and more easily enable LLM AI models to add value. Kokusai Kogyo has a venerable background in aerial surveying, GIS database development, application development, and data sales. A product like Geozén may enable KKC to sell into large, complex businesses that would not normally be conventional GIS customers by solving difficult data integration problems. - **SPACE SHIFT (株式会社SPACE SHIFT)** [has extended its SateAIs product with two new AI models for detecting ships and oil slicks](https://www.spcsft.com/en/news-en/3799/?ref=japanearthobserver.com) ([Japanese](https://www.spcsft.com/news/3794/?ref=japanearthobserver.com)). Ship detection enables maritime traffic monitoring, fishing fleet tracking, and potential maritime security (unauthorized vessel detection). Oil slick detection supports environmental compliance monitoring, spill response, and offshore infrastructure management. These specific AI models are leveraging SAR data, but in the broader SateAI product SPACE SHIFT uses optical, multi-spectral, and SAR data. It has productized its geospatial data analysis and AI expertise into six packages aimed at specific usage types: - City - planning, real estate, local government, finance - Ocean - marine transport, insurance, national government - Earth - disaster response, construction, insurance, government - Environment - forestry, environmental consulting, carbon accounting, ESG - Agriculture - food, agriculture, local government - Time - land use change, infrastructure, city planning - **SKY Perfect JSAT (スカパーJSAT株式会社)** has been [selected by NASA as a ground station for tracking the crewed Artemis II mission](https://www.skyperfectjsat.space/jp/news/20260126?ref=japanearthobserver.com) \[JSAT\] (Japanese) expected to launch Mar - Apr 2026\. SKY Perfect JSAT maintains a network of antennas and ground control stations that it uses to track and communicate with its own satellites as well as provide ground station services to other organizations. In this case, it will leverage its Doppler radar shift measurement capacity to help track the crewed Orion spacecraft on its 10-day trip to the Moon and back. NASA has its own extensive spacecraft tracking and communications network, but it supplements it with private capacity when needed. In this case, JSAT had begun providing a near-Earth object tracking service in Sept 2025 called “JSAT Space Line”, and it’s this new capacity it will leverage for the first for a cislunar tracking mission. ![04-sky-perfect-jsat-ibaraki-network-control-center.jpg](https://storage.ghost.io/c/54/e9/54e9159b-1345-41dd-b7dd-180de33edc5b/content/images/2026/02/04-sky-perfect-jsat-ibaraki-network-control-center.jpg) SKY Perfect JSAT antenna and ground station facility in Ibaraki with a closeup of the radome that covers the antenna. Source: SKY Perfect JSAT - **Weathernews (株式会社ウェザーニューズ)** has recently rolled out several new and enhanced geospatial data products. Weathernews is Japan's largest private weather company, operating both domestic and global weather services. It does not own any of its own weather satellites, but it operates ground receiving stations for multiple weather satellite systems, and is probably one of the most innovative commercial weather services firms in the world. In addition to the usual consumer-focused weather services to which we are all accustomed, Weathernews has developed a global set of specialized products for maritime shipping, airlines, railways, retail, construction, med-evac services, professional sports teams, and energy infrastructure. In fact, the company's origins were in providing specialized weather forecasting services for mariners. Inspired by the sinking of a cargo ship in Onahama Port and the death of 15 mariners caused by a bomb cyclone, Ishibashi Hiroyoshi set out to improve marine forecasts. As president of the Japanese subsidiary of Ocean Routes, a marine meteorological research company based in the United States, he grew the firm to 40 people. In 1986, he negotiated a management buyout of the Japan operations and established Weathernews. The company grew rapidly, creating subsidiaries in the United States, South Korea, China, and elsewhere. In 1993 Weathernews merged with its former parent company, Ocean Routes. They seem to have continued innovating in the years since, creating customized forecasting services for power utilities, establishing a Global Ice Center for Arctic shipping routes, setting up a specialized Tropical Cyclone Center, launched their first WNISAT-1 satellite in 2013, acquired French weather company METNEX in 2017, launched the WNISAT-1R satellite the same year. In December 2025 they held the inaugural Weather and Climate Forecasting Conference in Tokyo, with a focus on applications of AI for forecasting. In addition to the usual consumer-focused weather services to which we are all accustomed, Weathernews has developed global specialized products for maritime shipping, airlines, railways, retail, construction, and energy infrastructure. In December they held the [inaugural Weather and Climate Forecasting Conference](https://global.weathernews.com/blog/article-2026011501/?ref=japanearthobserver.com) in Tokyo, with a focus on applications of AI for forecasting. New services rolled out since January include: - An [hourly pollen forecasts](https://jp.weathernews.com/news/54743/?ref=japanearthobserver.com) (Japanese) that combine a network of more than [1,000 pollen observation sensor stations](https://global.weathernews.com/blog/article-2025122201/?ref=japanearthobserver.com) with satellite weather models - A new [conversational AI “Weather Agent” that answers natural language questions](https://jp.weathernews.com/news/54624/?ref=japanearthobserver.com) (Japanese) about weather and climate based on Weathernews satellite imagery, forecast models, and their archive of historical data. Every government and commercial entity working with weather is using or testing AI to improve forecasts, but this is the first consumer-focused AI interface I’ve seen that provides access to a trove of weather and climate data to non-expert users. It supports fairly precise questions like “will my laundry dry by 4p?” or “what is the likely impact of wind on Saturday’s marathon course?” as well as specialized questions related to gardening, camping/outdoors, and golf. It only seems to be available in Japan for now. - Enhanced [lightning risk monitoring services](https://jp.weathernews.com/news/54600/?ref=japanearthobserver.com) (Japanese) that combine ground-based sensors with lightning sensors on the latest weather satellites. Lightning risk alerts are particularly useful for critical infrastructure, aviation, and outdoor services. - 2026 [cherry blossom bloom forecast](https://jp.weathernews.com/news/54649/?ref=japanearthobserver.com) (Japanese) beginning 21 March in Tokyo and Fukuoka, slightly ahead of recent seasons ![05-cherry-blossom-bloom-start-by-city.jpg](https://storage.ghost.io/c/54/e9/54e9159b-1345-41dd-b7dd-180de33edc5b/content/images/2026/02/05-cherry-blossom-bloom-start-by-city.jpg) Cherry blossom bloom forecast start date by city. Source; Weathernews ### 🔭 Science - Researchers at the **University of Tokyo's Institute of Industrial Science (IIS)** have developed a [machine learning model using satellite imagery to predict risks of bear-human encounters](https://magazine.iis.u-tokyo.ac.jp/en%5Farticle/p%5F6264?ref=japanearthobserver.com). 2025 was a record year for bear attacks in Japan, particularly in the northern Tohoku region. Asiatic black bears are native to Japan and are generally solitary creatures that live in dense forests. A key reason for the 2025 spike was poor autumn harvest of acorns and beechnuts in forests, causing bears to range more widely for alternative food sources. But, perhaps counterintuitively, declining human populations are also increasing the risk of human-bear encounters. The number of bear hunters is declining and aging with the overall population. In addition, rapid declines in rural population is reducing the areas of land that are actively managed by humans, leading the bears to expand their habitats into areas they would not have previously entered. The new model aims to forecast areas in which these risks could rise in the future using satellite data on topography, human settlement patterns, and land cover. ![06-tokyo-iis-bear-attack-model.jpg](https://storage.ghost.io/c/54/e9/54e9159b-1345-41dd-b7dd-180de33edc5b/content/images/2026/02/06-tokyo-iis-bear-attack-model.jpg) Human-bear interaction risk model for Akita and Toyama prefectures. Source: U-Tokyo IIS - **Fujitsu** and the **Tokai National Higher Education and Research System (THERS)** announced the development of a [new technology to predict solar radiation events](https://global.fujitsu/en-global/pr/news/2026/01/28-01?ref=japanearthobserver.com). This system uses a "Wide Learning" AI technique to analyze past similar solar flares and predict radiation risks to satellites, power grids, and astronauts. While they can produce beautiful aurora displays on the Earth, solar flares and coronal mass ejections (CMEs) damage satellites, particularly in higher orbits and can affect both people and equipment in LEO as well as infrastructure on the Earth's surface. It's a particularly dangerous risk for lunar and Mars missions. ![07-fujitsu-space-weather.png](https://storage.ghost.io/c/54/e9/54e9159b-1345-41dd-b7dd-180de33edc5b/content/images/2026/02/07-fujitsu-space-weather.png) Impacts of solar activity and solar radiation events. Source: Fujitsu ### 🗺️ International Collaborations - **Synspective** is establishing a [subsidiary in Munich, Germany that will support SAR data sales and solutions in Europe, Africa, and Middle East](https://synspective.com/press-release/2026/synspective%5Feurope%5Fgmbh/?ref=japanearthobserver.com) \[Synspective\]. The outpost will be led by Iain MacInnes. This announcement follows on the heels of a [strategic partnership with European industrial giant, Airbus Defence and Space](https://synspective.com/press-release/2026/airbus%5Fpartnership/?ref=japanearthobserver.com) \[Synspective\]. - **Axelspace** and JETHI Software Development, an Ethiopian technology firm, [signed an MOU to support use of its satellite data in Ethiopia](https://www.axelspace.com/ja/news/mou%5Fethiopia/?ref=japanearthobserver.com). The MoU creates a framework for collaboration on building applications for agricultural monitoring, resource management, disaster and climate risk management, and infrastructure planning. - *Why does this matter?* Ethiopia's large agricultural sector and development challenges provide substantial opportunities for combining EO data with local data and position Axelspace to establish a market presence in East Africa while learning more about the emerging market requirements. - On 3 February, the Mexican CubeSat **Gxiba-1** was [deployed from the International Space Station's Japanese Experiment Module (Kibo) through the KiboCUBE program](https://www.spacedaily.com/reports/Mexican%5FGxiba%5F1%5FCubeSat%5FStarts%5FMission%5FAfter%5FKibo%5FDeployment%5F999.html?ref=japanearthobserver.com) (Space Daily), a partnership between JAXA and the United Nations Office for Outer Space Affairs (UNOOSA) designed for university-level research. Gxiba-1 was designed and built by a team from from the Popular Autonomous University (UPAEP) of the State of Puebla in Mexico after the university won the sixth round of the KiboCUBE program. UPAEP won the KiboCUBE slot in 2022 and delivered the completed satellite to JAXA Tsukuba Space Center for testing and integrate with the next HTV-X cargo launch in October. Now that it's deployed, UPAEP team is operating Gxiba-1\. Its mission is optical observations of volcanic activity and volcanic ash dispersion. - *Why does this matter?* KiboCUBE is a competitive program that offers cubesat deployments from the Kibo module to emerging and developing countries. While the program is designed to help universities and other research institutions to gain real world experience building and operating satellites, it's also a key source of Japanese soft power, cultivating relationships built around Japan's advanced technological capabilities. Once the satellite was built, - **ArkEdge Space (アークエッジ・スペース)** has [signed collaboration agreements](https://arkedgespace.com/en/news/2026-01-15%5Fleopnt?ref=japanearthobserver.com) \[ArkEdge\] \[[Japanese](https://arkedgespace.com/news/2026-01-22%5Fleopnt?ref=japanearthobserver.com)\] with [TrustPoint Inc.](https://www.trustpointgps.com/?ref=japanearthobserver.com) (USA), the [Royal Institute of Navigation (RIN)](https://rin.org.uk/?ref=japanearthobserver.com) (UK), and [FrontierSI](https://frontiersi.com.au/?ref=japanearthobserver.com) (Australia) to support development of its LEO-PNT satellite-based positioning and navigation system. ArkEdge is perhaps best known for its Earth observation satellites, but it is also developing maritime situational awareness for tracking movements of ships and a low Earth orbit (LEO) constellation to supplement the existing PNT systems (e.g. Galileo, GPS, Michibiki, etc.). The three organizations are quite different institutions. TrustPoint is building its own LEO positioning constellation. RIN is a research and professional society founded in 1947 as a forum for mariners, pilots, engineers and academics to share knowledge related to positioning and navigation. FrontierSI is an Australian nonprofit organization that carries out research and development related to geospatial applications, data analysis, and positioning. While different, each represents an anchor in one of three key Japanese defense and intelligence allies and can help ArkEdge develop a more useful LEO positioning and navigation system. - *Why does this matter?* The current public PNT infrastructure – GPS, Galileo, Michibiki, and others – relies on satellites in orbits 20,000km and higher. While highly effective, the signals from these higher orbits are weak and subject to both jamming and spoofing, a scenario that is becoming increasingly common in Europe and the Asia-Pacific. In addition, almost every component of our society’s critical civilian and defense infrastructure – from transportation to emergency services and supply chains – relies heavily on these vulnerable positioning and navigation signals. As a consequence, there are multiple efforts afoot to develop mechanisms to either shore up existing satellite positioning signals or provide alternatives that will make the overall system more resilient. The Japanese Michibiki system is already a supplement to the U.S. GPS system and includes more resilient signals. Another potential solution is development of a satellite positioning system that operates in LEO (2,000 km or less) with stronger radio signals. This is one of ArkEdge’s goals, and [JAXA has already funded ArkEdge to do an engineering feasibility study of a standalone LEO approach](https://www.gpsworld.com/jaxa-selects-arkedge-space-to-study-low-earth-orbit-positioning-system/?ref=japanearthobserver.com) \[GPS World\]. These new partnerships represent a way to both learn about potential customer needs and assemble a coalition of organizations with a common objective. While it could be considered a competitor, TrustPoint could also potentially be shared infrastructure. Meanwhile RIN and FrontierSI are global thought leaders with deep experience on this topic. TrustPoint already has three test PNT satellites in LEO and is trying to build a constellation of 100\. If TrustPoint and ArkEdge could share signal designs, they might both be able reach viable constellation size more rapidly together. Meanwhile, RIN and FrontierSI could help refine the system as well as cultivate support for the new infrastructure. Curiously, the [U.S. Space Force recently announced it is ending its own effort](https://www.gpsworld.com/us-space-force-cancels-smallsat-project-from-resilient-gps-program/?ref=japanearthobserver.com) \[GPS World\] to build a smaller, lower-cost navigation satellite constellation, known as Resilient GPS (R-GPS), without saying how it's going to deal with the spoofing and jamming problem. ![08-arkedge-leo-pnt-diagram.png](https://storage.ghost.io/c/54/e9/54e9159b-1345-41dd-b7dd-180de33edc5b/content/images/2026/02/08-arkedge-leo-pnt-diagram.png) Diagram of the 7-satellite QZSS (Michibiki) system supplemented with LEO PNT. Source: ArkEdge Space ## 📆 Asia-Pacific Conferences & Events This newsletter is mostly focused on Japan, but I also like to highlight events across the Asia-Pacific region. Some upcoming conferences in 2026 include: **February 2026** - [Urban Data Challenge 2025 Final](https://urbandata-challenge.jp/news/udc2025%5Ffinal?ref=japanearthobserver.com) \- 21 Feb - University of Tokyo, Meguro,Tokyo - [65th Virtual UNISEC-Global Meeting](https://unisec-global.org/calendar.html?ref=japanearthobserver.com) \- 21 Feb - Remote - [Spacetide/Keio University Special Workshop “Introduction to the Space Business”](https://prtimes.jp/main/html/rd/p/000000045.000057321.html?ref=japanearthobserver.com) (「宇宙ビジネス入門」特別公開講座) - 22 Feb, 8 Mar, 22 Mar - Keio University Mita Campus, Minato, Tokyo, Japan - [National Space Science Symposium](https://www.nsss2026.in/?ref=japanearthobserver.com) \- 23 - 27 Feb - Shillong, India - [Asia-Pacific Forum on Sustainable Development (UN ESCAP)](https://www.unescap.org/events/apfsd13?ref=japanearthobserver.com) \- 24 - 27 Feb - Bangkok, Thailand - [ISAS Planetary Defense Symposium (17th Space Guard Research Meeting)](https://www.isas.jaxa.jp/researchers/symposium/planetary%5Fdefense/fy%5F2025.html?ref=japanearthobserver.com) プラネタリーディフェンス・シンポジウム（第17回 スペースガード研究会[)](https://www.isas.jaxa.jp/researchers/symposium/planetary%5Fdefense/fy%5F2025.html?ref=japanearthobserver.com) \- 26 - 27 Feb - JAXA Sagamihara Campus, Japan (Hybrid) **March 2026** - [ISAS 40th Space Environment Utilization Symposium](https://www.isas.jaxa.jp/researchers/symposium/utilization/fy2025.html?ref=japanearthobserver.com) (第40回 宇宙環境利用シンポジウム) - 2 - 3 Mar - JAXA Sagamihara Campus, Japan - [22nd Tanegashima Rocket Contest](https://www.facebook.com/events/733516282602981/) (第２２回種子島ロケットコンテスト) - 3 - 5 Mar - Minamitane, Kagoshima, Japan - [JAXA Biz Dialog 2026](https://fund.jaxa.jp/content/uploads/20260309%5FJAXA%5FDialog%5Fkaisaiannai.pdf?ref=japanearthobserver.com) \- 9 Mar - Nihonbashi, Tokyo, Japan - [65th JSASS Aviation Engine and Space Propulsion Conference](https://smartconf.jp/content/ap65/?ref=japanearthobserver.com) (第65回 航空原動機・宇宙推進講演会) - 9 - 11 Mar - Beppu, Oita, Japan - [ISAS Sounding Rocket Symposium](https://www.isas.jaxa.jp/researchers/symposium/sounding%5Frocket/fy%5F2025.html?ref=japanearthobserver.com) (観測ロケットシンポジウム) - 12 - 13 Mar - JAXA Sagamihara Campus, Japan (Hybrid) - [Committee on Earth Observation Satellites (CEOS) Disaster and Information Services Working Group Meetings](https://ceos.org/meetings/wgdisasters-25-wgiss-61/?ref=japanearthobserver.com) \- 16 - 20 Mar - Dehradun, Uttarakhand,India - Commercial Space Conference and Exhibition - 17 - 18 Mar - Shenzhen, China - [Tottori Rover Challenge 2026](https://www.tottori-rover-challenge.com/?ref=japanearthobserver.com) (鳥取ローバーチャレンジ2026) - 19 - 21 Mar - Tottori, Japan - [Convergence India Expo](https://www.convergenceindia.org/?ref=japanearthobserver.com) \- 23 - 25 Mar - New Delhi, India - [Space Technology Conference Central Eurasia (STC)](https://www.spacetechnologyconference.com/?ref=japanearthobserver.com) \- 30 Mar - 1 Apr, Tashkent Uzbekhistan - [GEO Connect Asia 2026](https://www.geoconnectasia.com/?ref=japanearthobserver.com) \- 31 Mar - 1 Apr - Singapore - [Drones and Uncrewed Asia 2026](https://www.geoconnectasia.com/drones-uncrewed-asia?ref=japanearthobserver.com) \- 31 Mar - 1 Apr - Singapore **April 2026** - [57th Japan Society for Aeronautical and Space Sciences (JSASS) Annual Lectures](https://smartconf.jp/content/57nenkai/?ref=japanearthobserver.com) (日本航空宇宙学会第57期 年会講演会) - 15 - 17 April - Osaka University Toyonaka Campus, Osaka, Japan - [International Conference on Spacecraft Mission Operations (SMOPS)](https://smops.asindia.org/?ref=japanearthobserver.com) \- 8-10 Apr - Bengaluru, India - International Conference on Advances in Aerospace and Energy Systems (IAES-2026) - 16-18 Apr - Mahendragiri, Tamil Nadu, India - 11th China Space Day - 24 April - TBD, China - marks anniversary of China’s first satellite launch, Dongfanghong-1 in 1970 # --- If you’ve made it this far, thank you for reading. Please be in touch [via LinkedIn](https://www.linkedin.com/in/rcheetham/?ref=japanearthobserver.com) with any feedback, questions, comments, or requests for future topics. And if you have a friend or colleague that you think would enjoy JEO, please share it! Until next time, Robert --- Again and again I ask how high the snow is. \-- Author: Masaoka Shiki (1867–1902) - translated by Janine Beichman いくたびも 雪の深さを 尋ねけり *ikutabi mo* *yuki no fukasa o* *tazune keri* ### JEO 10 - What to Watch for in 2026 URL: https://www.japanearthobserver.com/jeo-10-what-to-watch-for-in-2026/ Last updated: 2026-02-15T17:39:24.000Z *Welcome to Japan Earth Observer (JEO), a monthly newsletter about the space, Earth observation, and geospatial industries in Japan. This issue outlines some stories to follow in 2026 including launch, satellites, deep space, debris management, the Japan Space Strategy fund, supply chains, and a major open source conference.* # What to Watch for in 2026 2025 was an eventful year, and we can expect more of the same in 2026\. Here’s a run-down of what to keep an eye on in Japan. ## QZS-7 and the H3 rocket return to launch **JAXA, Mitsubishi Heavy Industries (三菱重工業株式会社), Mitsubishi Electric (三菱電機株式会社)**, and their partners had a significant setback in December when the second stage of the [eighth launch of the H3 rocket failed](https://www.space.com/space-exploration/launches-spacecraft/japanese-h3-rocket-fails-during-launch-of-navigation-satellite?ref=japanearthobserver.com) \[Space.com\], and the QZS-5 navigation satellite it was carrying was lost. This was an expensive satellite, and its loss delays the completion of the [7-satellite configuration of the QZSS](https://www.japanearthobserver.com/japan-earth-observer-2-the-curious-orbits-of-qzss/#the-qzss-a-gps-for-japan-but-better) \[JEO\] that Japan needs to be able to have a standalone global navigation system. It is also a setback for the H3 rocket, which, after an initial failure, has had an otherwise successful launch record. The initial reports have been that when the payload fairing separated, it may have impacted the second stage and damaged the fuel tanks that supply the engines. However, the situation remains under investigation and in the meantime, the planned Feb 1 launch of the [QZS-7 satellite, has been delayed](https://global.jaxa.jp/press/2026/01/20260107-1%5Fe.html?ref=japanearthobserver.com) \[JAXA\]. It is unclear how long it will take Mitsubishi Electric to manufacture a new satellite to replace the one that was lost, but it will be even more important for JAXA and MHI to return the H3 rocket to service. In addition to QZS-7 and at least one HTV-X cargo trip to the ISS, Japan is planning a high profile Martian Moons eXploration (MMX) mission in 2026. ![01-h3-investigation-diagram.png](https://storage.ghost.io/c/54/e9/54e9159b-1345-41dd-b7dd-180de33edc5b/content/images/2026/02/01-h3-investigation-diagram.png) Diagram of H3 second stage failure. Source: JAXA ## Will Epsilon S rocket development get back on track? The flagship H-series liquid-fuel rockets developed by **Mitsubishi Heaving Industries** for JAXA receive a lot of attention. However, the lesser-known Epsilon rocket series is equally important for Japan’s effort to maintain a sustainable domestic launch capacity. Epsilon has long been developed by **IHI Aerospace**. The solid-fueled rockets are aimed at cost-effectively launching small and medium-sized satellites to low Earth orbit with scientific and Earth observation payloads. However, the next generation Epsilon S has experienced two ground test failures that ended in explosions in 2023 and 2024\. The inability of Epsilon S to get off the ground has forced JAXA to contract with Rocket Lab for research and science payloads that have been waiting for Epsilon to return to flight. In 2026 JAXA will both need to close out its investigation and determine if development of Epsilon S should proceed or if the program should revert to the previous, lower-powered second stage. I expect that the [review will continue but that JAXA](https://www3.nhk.or.jp/nhkworld/en/news/20260204%5F21/?ref=japanearthobserver.com) \[NHK\] will revert to using the previous, tested second stage in order to get Epsilon flying again. ## Will any of Japan’s commercial rocket startups reach orbit? Rockets developed directly for JAXA are not the only ones facing tests and challenges in 2026\. Commercial rocket developer **Space One Co (スペースワン)** is currently [planning the third attempt to launch its solid-fuel KAIROS vehicle](https://worldinsight.com/news/tech-science/kairos-launch-vehicle-no-3-to-retry-on-february-25-japans-private-space-sector-takes-a-do-or-die-challenge/?ref=japanearthobserver.com) \[World Insight\] on 25 Feb from Spaceport Kii. A lot is riding on this launch. Spaceport Kii is the first fully private launch facility but has yet to host a successful launch. Space One has several prominent investors, including Canon, IHI Aerospace, Shimizu, and the Development Bank of Japan, that would doubtless like to see some prospect of a return on their investment. KAIROS will carry five satellites from Taiwan, Terra Space Co., Space Cubics, ArkEdge Space, and a satellite developed by Tokyo students. **Interstellar**, another Japanese rocket launch aspirant, is targeting 2027 for its maiden launch but plans to complete critical engine tests as well as work on a new launchpad at the Hokkaido Spaceport in 2026\. They just closed a US $130 million series F funding round on 16 Jan 2026. **Innovative Space Carrier (ISC)** was recently forced to shift strategy after regulatory sclerosis in the US delayed a planned test at Spaceport America using rocket engine technology licensed from Ursa Major. ISC [will now develop an engine using domestic technology](https://innovative-space-carrier.co.jp/news/20251223?ref=japanearthobserver.com) \[ISC\] and carry out tests at **Asahi Kasei’s** facility in Shiga Prefecture. It now plans to launch from Hokkaido Spaceport in 2028. Sierra Space is not a Japanese launch company, but the Japanese trading company **Kanematsu (兼松株式会社)**, **MUFG Bank**, and **Tokio Marine & Nichido** are key investors. The first launch of the Dream Chaser spaceplane is now scheduled for late 2026 atop a ULA Vulcan rocket from Vandenberg Space Force Base. ![02-dream-chaser-sierra-space.jpg](https://storage.ghost.io/c/54/e9/54e9159b-1345-41dd-b7dd-180de33edc5b/content/images/2026/02/02-dream-chaser-sierra-space.jpg) Sierra Space’s first Dream Chaser space plane, Tenacity, in the hanger. Credit: Sierra Space ## Astroscale will attempt both deorbit and refueling operations **Astroscale UK** [completed a critical design review in June 2025](https://www.astroscale.com/en/news/astroscales-elsa-m-spacecraft-completes-critical-design-review?ref=japanearthobserver.com) \[Astroscale\] for the ELSA-M spacecraft to conduct an active debris removal mission. The ELSA-M launch is expected for 2026 and will attempt to approach, dock, de-orbit, and then release a defunct Eutelsat OneWeb satellite. Astroscale’s mission is part of a broader effort to reduce debris in low Earth orbit (LEO) In addition, **Astroscale US** is expected to launch its first Refueler mission that will deliver hydrazine fuel to two U.S. Space Force satellites in geostationary orbit (36,000 km). A Chinese mission demonstrated the feasibility of such a feat in 2025, so this won't be the first mission of its kind, and other companies are attempting to develop similar capabilities, including [Northrup Grumman’s SpaceLogistics subsidiary](https://www.airandspaceforces.com/us-on-obit-satellite-servicing-4-missions-2026/?ref=japanearthobserver.com) \[Air and Space Forces\]. However, Astroscale’s mission will be more complex than anything previously attempted. The two target Tetra-5 satellites are equipped with a refueling port (Rapidly Attachable Fluid Transfer Interface or RAFTI) developed by partner Orbit Fab. The 300 kg Astroscale APS-R Refueler spacecraft will approach the first Tetra-5, attach to the RAFTI, and transfer fuel. It will then back away and scan for leaks before moving on to rendezvous with an Orbit Fab fuel depot - essentially, an orbiting gas station - refill its tank and then travel to a second satellite to deliver a second load of fuel to another satellite. For this mission, the Orbital Fab fuel depot will launch on the same flight as the Astroscale APS-R spacecraft, but in the future, we can expect fuel depots like this to be launched in advance and maintained as long-term storage. There are more than 500 large satellites in geostationary orbit, and they tend to be both expensive and highly engineered spacecraft that carry out a range of telecommunications, broadcasting, weather observation, navigation, and other crucial functions. Every year 10 to 20 reach end-of-life due to lack of fuel, and a few a year also experience malfunctions. The ability to keep more of these satellites operating longer will reduce both the cost of each mission and the need to launch replacements. The capabilities being developed by Astroscale, its partners, and its competitors are aimed at building a commercial ecosystem that can support greater mission longevity, sustainability, and resilience. The U.S. Space Force recently announced that it [expects to require standardized refueling ports](https://breakingdefense.com/2025/09/in-shift-space-force-to-require-refueling-capability-for-next-gen-neighborhood-watch-sats/?ref=japanearthobserver.com) \[Breaking Defense\] on its next generation RG-XX constellation. Astroscale has already embedded its standardized docking plate on hundreds of satellites and was recently [awarded a patent for no-fuel approaches to failed satellites](https://news.satnews.com/2025/12/16/astroscale-secures-patent-for-fuel-free-capture-of-tumbling-satellites/?ref=japanearthobserver.com). As the capabilities are developed, we can expect the development of global standards that will enable interoperability. ![03-astroscale-refueler-concept-of-operations.png](https://storage.ghost.io/c/54/e9/54e9159b-1345-41dd-b7dd-180de33edc5b/content/images/2026/02/03-astroscale-refueler-concept-of-operations.png) Astroscale Refueler concept of operations. Credit: Astroscale ## Space debris and responses to it will get real At this point in time, even if humanity does not launch any more satellites into low Earth orbit, the amount of debris will increase due to collisions. SpaceX has almost 10,000 Starlink satellites in orbit and is aiming for a 45,000 satellite constellation with 30,000 already approved. Amazon Leo has almost 200 satellites and is building toward a constellation of 3,000\. These both pale in comparison to constellations planned by Chinese companies. Guowang is building toward a 13,000 and Qianfan (Thousand Sails) is aiming for about 15,000, but China just filed with the ITU for two additional constellations, designated CTC-1 & CTC-2: these new, massive applications from a joint government-industry body request nearly 97,000 satellites each, totaling over 193,000\. A [recent report by the World Economic Forum](https://www.weforum.org/publications/clear-orbit-secure-future-a-call-to-action-on-space-debris/?ref=japanearthobserver.com) \[WEF\] estimates that, even without major collisions, LEO congestion will [cost the industry US$25.8 - 42.3 billion](https://payloadspace.com/wefs-space-debris-report-projects-significant-costs/?ref=japanearthobserver.com) \[Payload\] over the next ten years through the service interruptions, hardware losses and replacements, and the cost of maneuvering to avoid potential collisions. Costs are likely to be one driver, but government regulation will be another. While the U.S. has been slower to add new space sustainability regulations, the ESA has set a goal of zero new space debris from European missions by 2030\. The Zero Debris Charter set both high-level guiding principles and specific targets to get to Zero Debris by 2030. In addition to Astroscale’s plans described above, there are other Japanese firms building debris tracking, debris mitigation, and de-orbit tests in 2026. - **Axelspace’s** D-SAIL concept was launched in December as part of the JAXA RAISE-4 mission. The [D-SAIL satellite will deploy a sail-like membrane](https://www.axelspace.com/ja/news/dsail%5Fraise4%5Flaunch/?ref=japanearthobserver.com) \[Axelspace\] with an area of 2m² and several tens of microns thick. The membrane is expected to increase atmospheric resistance and thereby gradually lower the satellite’s altitude, accelerating its re-entry into the atmosphere. - **BULL** has [raised a seed round to support development of its own sail-inspired space debris prevention devices](https://prtimes.jp/main/html/rd/p/000000023.000113020.html?ref=japanearthobserver.com). - **Orbital Lasers**, a spinoff from SKY Perfect JSAT, is developing debris removal lasers as well as LIDAR mapping tools. - **Power Laser Technology** is also working on using lasers for debris removal. - **LSAS Tech** is developing debris tracking, trajectory, and orbit analysis and simulation software - **Space Weather Company** is developing debris tracking radar. - **Star Signal Solutions** is building tools for space traffic and debris management, collision avoidance, and space situational awareness. It was recently awarded a JAXA Space Strategy Fund contract to build ultra-small debris detection technology using optical fences. ![04-space-lasers-illustration.png](https://storage.ghost.io/c/54/e9/54e9159b-1345-41dd-b7dd-180de33edc5b/content/images/2026/02/04-space-lasers-illustration.png) Illustration of Orbital Lasers concept for nudging debris into the atmosphere. Source: Orbital Lasers While Astroscale enjoys a clear early mover advantage, and several Japanese companies are developing technology for managing debris, other companies in North America and Europe are developing similar capabilities. Europe’s **D-Orbit** just closed a [D series funding round of US$53 million](https://news.satnews.com/2026/01/22/d-orbit-secures-53m-series-d-funding-to-accelerate-ma-and-in-space-computing-capacity/?ref=japanearthobserver.com), and while much of this funding is expected to be spent on M&A and developing its in-orbit computing infrastructure, it is also investing in developing the robotics necessary for complex in-orbit activities, such as satellite debris mitigation and servicing. And U.S.-based **Starfish Space** just [inked a US$52.5 million deal to use its Otter spacecraft](https://www.space.com/space-exploration/launches-spacecraft/us-space-force-awards-1st-of-its-kind-usd52-million-contract-to-deorbit-its-satellites?ref=japanearthobserver.com) and software to deorbit a U.S. Space Force satellite in its Proliferated Warfighter Space Architecture (PWSA) in 2027\. I think we can expect this to be a competitive sector with many developments arriving in 2026 and beyond. ## Will the Space Strategy Fund change under Takaichi? March 31 will mark the end of the Japanese fiscal year 2025 and Year 2 of the [Japan Space Strategy Fund](https://www.japanearthobserver.com/jeo-3-japans-space-strategy-fund/#japans-space-strategy-fund-space-industrial-policy-at-scale) (宇宙戦略基金) \[JEO 3\]. A lot of awards have not yet been announced for Year 2 but the following have been posted: | Theme | | | | | ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- | --------------------- | ---------------- | --------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- | | **宇宙輸送 Space Transportation** | **Solicitation Date** | **Results Date** | **Awards** | | System technology for smart launch sites | 2025.08.22 | Pending | | | Technologies for ensuring safety of crewed space transportation systems | 2025.08.08 | Pending | | | Feasibility study on facilities contributing to high-frequency launches | 2025.07.25 | 2025.11.21 | IHI Aerospace | | Innovation in rocket manufacturing processes for high-frequency launches | 2025.06.13 | 2025.12.19 | IHI Corporation Akahoshi Industry SPACE ONE Toray Carbon Magic Tokuda Industry Hikari Manufacture Fuji Seiki Hokuto UACJ | | Rocket components that contribute to high-frequency launches | 2025.05.16 | 2025.11.21 | Eagle Industry Air Water NEC Space Technology Sinfonia Technology Suiho Space Innovations Space BD Mjolnir Spaceworks | | **衛星等 Satellites** | **Solicitation Date** | **Results Date** | **Awards** | | Frequency sharing technologies for satellite to ground communication | 2025.08.22 | 2026.01.16 | Rakuten Mobile | | Innovative satellite mission technology demonstration support | 2025.08.08 | Pending | | | Technology for next-generation Earth observation satellites | 2025.08.08 | Pending | | | Technology for orbital transfer, in-orbit refueling, and space logistics | 2025.08.08 | 2026.01.23 | NEC Corporation Pale Blue Mitsubishi Electric Astroscale Yokohama National Univ. | | Accelerate implementation of satellite data utilization systems | 2025.07.11 | Pending | | | Terminal interconnection technology for satellite optical communications | 2025.07.11 | 2025.12.19 | Warpspace | | Internationally competitive communications payload technologies | 2025.07.11 | 2025.12.19 | Mitsubishi Electric | | Technologies for in orbit manufacturing, object removal, and space situational awareness | 2025.06.27 | 2025.11.28 | Toray Mitsubishi Electric Power Laser (2) IHI Corporation Star Signal Solutions | | Data relay service using satellite optical communications | 2025.06.27 | 2025.11.21 | Space Compass | | Advanced technologies for accelerating the use of Earth environment satellite data | 2025.06.13 | 2025.12.19 | Space Data Tellus Preferred Networks | | Feasibility study on the development and manufacturing of satellite buses and optical communication terminals | 2025.05.16 | 2025.10.10 | National Institute of Information and Communications Technology (NICT) NEC Corporation Mitsubishi Electric | | **探査等 Exploration** | **Solicitation Date** | **Results Date** | **Awards** | | High-precision landing technology in the lunar polar regions | 2025.07.25 | 2026.01.16 | ispace | | Orbital data center construction technology | 2025.07.25 | 2026.01.16 | SpaceBlast | | Technologies for efficient use of on-orbit research facilities | 2025.06.27 | 2025.11.28 | Japan LEO Shachu | | High-frequency material recovery system technology | 2025.06.13 | 2025.11.07 | ElevationSpace | | Foundational technologies for lunar infrastructure construction | 2025.05.16 | 2025.10.10 | University of Tokyo Tohoku University Ritumeikan University | | **分野共通 Common Areas** | **Solicitation Date** | **Results Date** | **Awards** | | SX Core Area Development Research "SX-ARK" | 2025.09.12 | Pending | | | Solving environmental testing challenges for spacecraft | 2025.08.22 | 2026.02.13 | IMV Corp SEESE Corp. High Energy Accelerator Research Organization (KEK) Japan Atomic Energy Agency (JAEA) (2) National Research and Development Agency (RIKEN) National Institutes for Quantum and Radiological Science and Technology (QST) | | SX-CRANE, a space-transfer and new industry seeds creation center | 2025.08.08 | 2026.02.06 | Tokyo Univ. of Marine Science and Technology Tokyo Univ. of Science (2) Yamagata Univ. Waseda Univ. | From a brief overview of Year 1 and Year 2 awards, I have a few observations: - *Public, transparent process* \- JAXA has worked hard to describe each topic in depth with both online and in-person briefings during the spring and summer. Further, it has published selection criteria, results, and who sits on each selection committee. This year, it also published a [compendium of interim results for all recipients of Year 1 funding](https://fund.jaxa.jp/content/uploads/20251020%5F1st%5Fterm%5FPR%5Fsheets.pdf?ref=japanearthobserver.com). Finally, it has proactively participated in dozens of public outreach events across the country. Transparency helps to build trust, and JAXA invests a lot of effort in this. ![05-space-strategy-fund-outreach-jaxa.png](https://storage.ghost.io/c/54/e9/54e9159b-1345-41dd-b7dd-180de33edc5b/content/images/2026/02/05-space-strategy-fund-outreach-jaxa.png) A list of Fund-related public workshops and outreach events by JAXA in 2025\. Source: JAXA - *Collaboration is rewarded* \- From reviewing the Year 1 compendium, most successful awards are collaborations between at least two firms. Further, a university is part of the vast majority of successful teams. - *International collaboration is part of the plan* \- While the Strategy Fund can only provide direct funding awards to domestic Japanese organizations, JAXA understands that the potential market for innovative products and services is a global one. Part of its approach includes active outreach to international space agencies and potentially co-funding collaborations between Japanese firms and those in other countries. JAXA already organized a B2B matchmaking event with the UK Space Agency and is committed to organizing more of these. - *Open to feedback* \- The Strategy Fund is overseen by a Steering Committee that makes recommendations for changes. In January, JAXA published both the recommendations and their proposed actions. The January 2025 recommendations have already led to Year 2 improvements: - *Improve transparency and outreach* with a more proactive industry engagement process and announcement of solicitation dates at the beginning of the fiscal year. JAXA has clearly acted on this in the Year 2 process. - *Set a broader array of themes* \- I don't see this in the themes, but JAXA is forecasting that they will make 140 awards in Year 2 (there were \~50 in Year 1). Many Year 2 awards have not yet been made, so the jury is out on this one - *Improve international collaboration* \- This led directly to the new international cooperation and co-funding program described above - *Strengthen government procurement coordination* The [January 2026 Steering Committee recommendations](https://www8.cao.go.jp/space/comittee/dai121/siryou2-1.pdf?ref=japanearthobserver.com) have repeated some similar themes, including better government procurement communication and coordination, more support for securing overseas market access, and developing mechanisms to attract private capital. As Year 1 awardees are approaching their first formal “stage-gate” evaluations, the steering committee is also urging discipline in terms of terminating contracts that are not seeing results and concentrating funds on the most promising efforts. - *Low risk tolerance* \- There are some exceptions, but the majority of the recipients are established firms, prominent research universities, or well-funded startups. The Space Strategy Fund has three key goals: 1) expand the domestic space market by supporting startups, innovation, and commercialization of space; 2) address societal challenges in energy, environment, agriculture, disaster management, and public health; and 3) pioneer science and technology frontiers. Bold innovation rarely arises in established, incumbent firms. Japan has suffered for decades from sclerotic science and technology development, and if it is going to increase the productivity of its economy while facing a declining population, it will have to make a lot of bold bets on young, fast-growing innovators. An anemic venture capital ecosystem means that the government is often a key source of funding for innovative startups. Growing the space ecosystem will require disruption of the status quo industry. Some will fail, but some will become the large companies of the future. The Strategy Fund awards thus far look like safe stewardship of public funds, but they also look like they are reinforcing the status quo industrial structure, rather than betting on startups that will help pioneer the frontiers. - *Infrastructure predominates* \- If we think about the space industry structure as including three layers - Infrastructure, Distribution, and Applications - most of the Fund’s investment in Years 1 and 2 is going to infrastructure: rockets, satellites, and the components and materials used to make them. Again, there are exceptions: Ocean Eyes, Umitron, Marble Visions, Pacific Consultants, and Space Tech Accelerator clearly fall into the Applications layer. However, funds for this type of work were all grouped under a single feasibility study theme in Year 1, and there are no themes or awards focused on building the Distribution platforms that often become the hubs around which high value applications are built. One of the Fund’s goals is “address societal challenges in energy, environment, agriculture, disaster management, and public health” and this is also getting short shrift in the selection of both themes and awards. Conventional wisdom is that Japan excels at “making things” (mono-tsukuri 物創り) and that is certainly true, but Japan also boasts an incredible track record for services innovation and a great deal of future societal value will be in Applications and Distribution. By short-changing these layers of the value chain, I believe the Space Strategy Fund is demonstrating an incomplete strategy. Japan has a new Prime Minister and PM Takaichi has outlined an aggressive plan to expand industrial policy R&D programs like the Space Strategy Fund to 17 industries across five cross-cutting themes: - AI, Semiconductors, and Advanced Materials - Energy, Food, and Logistics Security - Defense and Security Infrastructure - National Infrastructure and Regional Revitalization - Biotechnology and Healthcare I think it’s unlikely the Takaichi administration will change the direction of the Space Strategy Fund. Rather, it seems more likely that it will be a model on which she will double-down on the overall approach to national industrial policy. After calling a snap election in early February, she just won the biggest majority in Japanese electoral history, and she will now have the legislative support to pursue this and a range of other R&D investment priorities. ## Axelspace, Synspective, iQPS, and IHI constellation build outs Japan’s commercial Earth observation satellite firms are building out their constellations, and three firms, in particular, are set to make significant progress in 2026. **Axelspace** [IPO-ed in 2025 and](https://www.japanearthobserver.com/jeo-5-jmod-goes-shopping/) plans to launch seven next-generation GRUS-3 imagery satellites. It successfully launched the GRUS-3α pathfinder satellite in June 2025, and the production constellation will integrate learnings from the prototype. These new satellites will capture imagery with 2.2 meter resolution and will be multispectral and will capture optical (RGB) bands as well as Red Edge, Near Infrared, and a “Coastal Blue” band for coastal and underwater monitoring. The imagery will significantly expand Axelspace’s AxelGlobe imagery service, adding 2.3 million square kilometers of imagery per day from sun-synchronous orbits of 585 km. This is not global coverage but it is almost the land area of China or Australia. **Synspective** is aiming to build a constellation of 30 SAR satellites. They launched one satellite on a Rocket Lab vehicle in 2025, and they now have an active constellation of four birds and signed launch contracts with Rocket Lab for 21 more, plus additional launch contracts with Exolaunch (a launch broker) and SpaceX. **iQPS** is also building a constellation of SAR satellites, aiming for 24 birds by 2027\. They have successfully launched 13 satellites and nine are currently operational, six of which were launched in 2025 on Rocket Lab vehicles. They have contracts with RocketLab for at least five more launches. **IHI Corporation** is taking a different route, contracting with other companies to build a constellation that combines SAR, infrared, optical, multispectral, and hyperspectral sensors. It is [having SAR satellites built by Finnish firm ICEYE](https://asia.nikkei.com/business/aerospace-defense-industries/japan-s-ihi-signs-satellite-constellation-deal-with-finland-manufacturer2?ref=japanearthobserver.com) \[Nikkei Asia\] at a facility in Japan and expects to have the first four launched in FY2026\. It has a [partnership with SatVu for thermal infrared](https://payloadspace.com/satvu-ihi-partner-on-thermal-mapping-constellation/?ref=japanearthobserver.com) \[Payload\] satellites and [with Surrey Satellite Technology (SSTI) for the others](https://www.sstl.co.uk/media-hub/latest-news/2025/sstl-and-ihi-sign-agreement-to-collaborate-on-japanese-isr-constellation?ref=japanearthobserver.com). Axelspace, Synspective, and iQPS are also part of a new JMoD contract (see below), so 2026 will be a busy year for them. ## SKY Perfect JSAT will receive its first Pelican from Planet SKY Perfect JSAT (スカイパーJSAT) signed a $230m contract with Planet Labs in 2025 to build and launch a dedicated constellation of Planet’s latest Pelican Earth observation satellites. Planet already has some Pelicans in orbit and plans a total constellation of 30, of which 10 will be prioritized for SKY Perfect JSAT use. JSAT is aiming to both diversify its revenue sources beyond satellite communications and expand its work in defense and intelligence. Meanwhile, Planet has since been able to do similar deals with [Germany](https://payloadspace.com/planet-scores-e240m-defense-and-intelligence-contract/?ref=japanearthobserver.com) \[Payload\]and [Sweden](https://www.spacewar.com/reports/Planet%5Fsecures%5Fmulti%5Fyear%5Fsatellite%5Fcontract%5Fwith%5FSwedish%5FArmed%5FForces%5F999.html?ref=japanearthobserver.com) \[SpaceWar\], making satellite constellation services a significant portion of its business. ## New JMoD EO constellation will move into high gear Early in 2025, the [Ministry of Defense announced a major intelligence satellite procurement](https://www.japanearthobserver.com/jeo-5-jmod-goes-shopping/) \[JEO 5\] through which it would contract to build and operate a new satellite constellation for intelligence, surveillance, and reconnaissance (衛星コンステレーションの整備・運営等事業). JMoD was aiming to avoid building and operating the constellation itself. Rather, it would use a private finance initiative (PFI) procurement mechanism. This means they would contract with a private commercial operator (or, more likely, a consortium backing a single-purpose corporation) to build, own, and operate the constellation and necessary ground station infrastructure. JMoD would have priority access to the capabilities but the private operator would also be able to sell imagery to other clients in order to recoup costs. JMoD also clearly wanted a domestic, sovereign capability; all satellites must be domestically produced (国産衛星) by domestic companies, though they allowed for non-domestic launch services. This type of PFI structure is not new; JMoD uses a similar structure for the Kirameki defense communications satellites and JMA’s weather satellites (Himawari) are operated by a similar Special Purpose Company (SPC), Geostationary Meteorological Satellite System Service Co., Ltd (GMSS), which is, in turn, backed by Mitsubishi HC Capital, , and Internet Initiative Japan (IIJ). JMoD awarded the contract in December and everyone is invited! As expected, the winning bid is a consortium led by **Mitsubishi Electric**, but the consortium is broad, they are joined by **Synspective**, **iQPS**, **Axelspace**, **SKY Perfect JSAT**, **Mitsui Bussan**, and **Mitsui & Co**. Other than perhaps IHI and NEC, the consortium includes many of the major incumbent satellite manufacturers and New Space firms operating active satellite constellations in Japan. JMoD is prioritizing high revisit cadence over Japan and surrounding regions. Once fully operational, they want persistent situational awareness with at least one satellite always having a shot at any location in the region. The consortium will also need to develop a dedicated ground segment (専用地上施設) secured for defense-related data handling. It’s a five year contract (through March 2031) so the consortium will have to hit the ground running. ## Commercial space station race will begin taking shape We are now only four years from the planned de-orbit of the International Space Station (ISS). Several Japan firms have placed bets on one of the four commercial space station efforts aimed at succeeding the ISS, and some key tests are expected in 2026. Trading company **Mitsubishi Corporation (三菱商事株式会社)** just [increased its investment in Starlab Space, joined the Board of Directors, and became one of its biggest customers](https://starlab-space.com/press-releases/mitsubishi-corporation-joins-starlab-as-major-space-station-customer/?ref=japanearthobserver.com) \[Starlab Space\] by pre-purchasing capacity on Starlab’s commercial space station. Starlab will not be launching in 2026, but it will face a Critical Design Review (CDR) and a full-scale mockup will be assembled in Houston at Johnson Space Center in order to test human factors design and operations. The Axiom Space space station, backed by an investment from trading company **Mitsui & Co (三井物産株式会社)** is expected to continue manufacturing and integration of several modules this year with plans to launch its first module, a Payload Power Thermal Module (AxPPTM), to the ISS in 2027\. After spending some time attacked to the ISS, it will detach in 2028 in order to rendezvous with habitat modules (AxH1 and AxH2), an Airlock module, and Research and Manufacturing Module and be ready for operation in 2030. ![06-axiom-space-station-assemby-process.png](https://storage.ghost.io/c/54/e9/54e9159b-1345-41dd-b7dd-180de33edc5b/content/images/2026/02/06-axiom-space-station-assemby-process.png) Axiom Space space station assembly process In addition to the maiden launch of Sierra Space’s Dream Chaser spaceplane (see above), Sierra Space and Blue Origin are developing Orbital Reef as a future commercial space station. A pathfinder version of the inflatable space habitat modules known as Large Integrated Flexible Environment (LIFE) is expected to launch in late 2026\. When the production version of the LIFE modules begin launching in 2027, they will be chained together to form the full Orbital Reef space station. As key investors, Japanese firms Kanematsu (兼松株式会社), MUFG Bank, and Tokio Marine & Nichido have a lot riding on this work. Kanematsu is also working with **IHI Aerospace** to [develop a version of the Passive Docking System (PDS)](https://www.sierraspace.com/press-releases/sierra-space-selects-japanese-passive-docking-system-for-its-commercial-space-station-design/?ref=japanearthobserver.com) \[Sierra Space\]for Dream Chaser and Orbital Reef. The PDS complies with the International Docking System Standard (IDSS) and has been successfully used on the HTV and HTV-X cargo vehicles used to supply the ISS. The first commercial space station developed by Vast, Haven-1, had been expected to launch atop a SpaceX Falcon-9 rocket in May 2026\. However, it was [recently delayed to early 2027](https://www.vastspace.com/updates/vast-advances-haven-1-into-integration-phase?ref=japanearthobserver.com) \[Vast\]. The Vast effort does not have a Japanese investor, but **Japan Manned Space Systems Corporation (JAMSS)** is a payload partner and will leverage its extensive experience managing operations on the ISS Kibo research module to develop a scientific research equipment module that will fly on Haven-1\. Vast also recently increased its commitment to Japan by opening a [Japanese subsidiary in Dec 2025, appointing former astronaut Yamazaki Naoko](https://www.vastspace.com/updates/vast-expands-to-japan-appointing-naoko-yamazaki-as-general-manager-of-vast-japan-gk?ref=japanearthobserver.com) \[Vast\] as its first general manager. Finally, NASA is expected to issue a long-delayed RFP for the next phase of its Commercial LEO Destination (CLD) contracts. Four firms received Phase 1 contracts, and [one or two of the above are likely to win Phase 2 with hundreds of millions of dollars at stake](https://arstechnica.com/space/2026/01/key-senate-staffer-is-begging-nasa-to-get-on-with-commercial-space-stations/?ref=japanearthobserver.com) \[Ars Technica\]. ## JAXA Hayabusa2 will attempt high speed flyby of Torifune asteroid JAXA Hayabusa2 (はやぶさ2) is scheduled to perform a high-speed flyby of the asteroid (小惑星) 98943 Torifune (formerly 2001 CC21) on 5 July 2026\. This is a rather extreme mission extension of the Hayabusa probe, which already visited Ryugu and sent samples back to Earth. Torifune is only 500m in size, and Hayabusa2 will approach Torifune at 5 km/sec and will shoot past in 0.1 seconds. After Torifune, Hayabusa2 will continue its journey, culminating in another asteroid visit to 1998 KY26 in 2031. ![07-hayabusa2-torifune-flyby-plan.jpg](https://storage.ghost.io/c/54/e9/54e9159b-1345-41dd-b7dd-180de33edc5b/content/images/2026/02/07-hayabusa2-torifune-flyby-plan.jpg) Illustration of Hayabusa2 journey to Torifune and 1998 KY26\. Source: JAXA ## Joint ESA-JAXA BepiColombo mission will enter Mercury orbit The ESA-JAXA BepiColumbo mission to Mercury is expected to complete its eight-year journey to Mercury in November 2026\. Through six gravity-assist flybys of Earth, Venus, and Mercury, it has already collected good science data as well as tested its equipment. Once BepiColumbo enters orbit, it will separate into two orbiters. The ESA Mercury Planetary Orbiter (MPO) will study the planet’s surface and interior while JAXA’s Mercury Magnetospheric Orbiter (MMO) will focus on the magnetosphere. They will both have to endure an astonishingly harsh environment at just a few tens of millions of kilometers from the Sun. ![08-bepi-colombo-sixth-flyby.png](https://storage.ghost.io/c/54/e9/54e9159b-1345-41dd-b7dd-180de33edc5b/content/images/2026/02/08-bepi-colombo-sixth-flyby.png) BepiColombo sixth flyby. Credit: ESA/BepiColombo/MTM ## Japan will continue seeking domestic supply chain autonomy Use of tariffs and other trade barriers by China and the United States over the past year have heightened concerns about supply chain autonomy and security for many countries. In addition, the temporary removal of Ukraine’s access to U.S. satellite intelligence in spring 2025 alarmed many of its allies and highlighted the degree to which they are dependent on these types of intelligence assets. The JSAT procurement of a satellite constellation from Planet Labs and the JMoD development of its own EO constellation described above are just two examples of efforts to procure and develop sovereign Earth observation satellite constellations. But sovereign control over rockets and satellites are only one facet of developing a secure, autonomous supply chain. Every material, component, and part has the potential to become a bottleneck if a single supplier or a single country controls the supply. For Japan, these concerns are not new. For example, China previously cut off Japan’s access to rare earth minerals in 2010 over territorial disputes about islands claimed by both countries. Since then, Japan has quietly [sought to develop its own rare earth mineral supply chain](https://www.nytimes.com/2025/12/08/business/japan-rare-earths-lynas.html?ref=japanearthobserver.com) \[NY Times\], allocating US$1 billion in government support for developing a non-China supply chain in 2011\. Sojitz (双日株式会社), a Japanese trading company, worked with the state-backed Japan Organization for Metals and Energy Security (JOGMEC 独立行政法人エネルギー・金属鉱物資源機構) to invest in Lynas, an Australian mining company. Lynas now mines rare earths in Australia and then refines them at their facility in Kuantan, Malaysia. The separated and refined ores are then shipped to Japan to be distributed by Sojitz. Another project led by JOGMEC seeks to develop a rare earth mine in Namibia. Other Japanese firms are developing technologies that avoid use of rare earths, decreasing demand. In 2018, a Japanese research team discovered an estimated 16 million metric tons of rare earth elements in deep sea mud at 6,000m depth off the coast of Minamitorishima, a small island almost 2,000km southeast of Tokyo. Early in 2026, the Japan Agency for Marine-Earth Science and Technology (JAMSTEC 国立研究開発法人海洋研究開発機構) will use the deep-sea research ship *Chikyuu* to [carry out exploratory mining of the mud](https://asia.nikkei.com/business/markets/commodities/japan-to-process-rare-earth-mud-from-2027-tapping-deep-sea-reserves?ref=japanearthobserver.com) \[Nikkei Asia\] to help guide development of the full-scale process slated to begin in 2027\. Unlike the Australia mine, this mud has almost no radioactive or other toxic substances that add complexity and cost to the Malaysia refinery, and 16 million metric tons would potentially provide enough of some rare earth minerals for centuries of global supply. But even after 15 years of steady investment, Japan has reduced its reliance on Chinese rare earth mineral imports from 90% to perhaps 60%, and the results remain far more expensive than Chinese sources of the same minerals. China repeated its rare earth mineral export ban again in late 2025, and it sent shockwaves across the industries that need these materials, from electric vehicles to robotics, sensors, and satellites. And rare earth minerals are just one small part of the space industrial supply chain. Rocket engines and satellites require an enormous array of complex materials and components: radiation resistant solar cells and semiconductors, electric Hall-effect thrusters, specialized insulators, precision steel and alloy structures, power distribution units, magnetic sensors, radio transmitters/receivers, specialized batteries, precision optics, carbon fiber reinforced polymers, hydraulics and valves that can operate under extreme environments... I could go on, but you get the idea. Developing this domestic supply chain is an explicit goal of Japan’s Space Strategy Fund, and JAXA is awarding research funds to many firms that are trying to develop new materials and components. For example, Mitsubishi Electric has been funded to develop next generation solar cells and arrays and reduce the manufacturing cost. Despite all of these efforts, developing a fully domestic supply chain for complex products like rockets, satellites, AI data centers, and EVs will be challenging for any single country. Strategic stockpiles, replacements, recycling, and domestic industrial capacity will only cover a portion of the critical materials needed, and Japan will doubtless need to rely on allies and trading partners to access the full array of materials and components that it needs. Further, national resilience is built as much on human ideas as it is on materials and industrial capacity. Creative new ideas will come from people working with the best available tools. Japan has two historical templates for rapid acceleration of economic and technological progress: the Meiji revolution of the late 19th and early 20th century and the post-World War II period. In each case, Japan aggressively imported both the best technology and the best people and invested in education and human development of its citizens. In addition, both of these historical precedents involved radical restructuring of business and society, letting go of the legacy organizations and habits that no longer served the country. The Meiji revolutionaries discarded Tokugawa feudal socioeconomic structure and encouraged the development of countless new businesses and cultural habits. The post-WW II period began with dissolution of the major industrial conglomerates (zaibatsu) and removal of all senior executives by the U.S. Occupation authorities. Both events unleashed the creative and entrepreneurial potential of the Japanese people. ![09-chikyuu-research-ship-jamstec.jpg](https://storage.ghost.io/c/54/e9/54e9159b-1345-41dd-b7dd-180de33edc5b/content/images/2026/02/09-chikyuu-research-ship-jamstec.jpg) The Chikyuu research ship that will test deep sea rare earth mining processes. Source: JAMSTEC ## Staffing, productivity, and demographics Last year saw an estimated 667,500 births, the lowest number since records began in 1899 and significantly below government forecasts. Japan’s severe demographic crisis is not getting better. Meanwhile, Japan’s labor pay scale remains significant below that of comparable developed economies, and this is directly related to labor productivity that has lagged behind as well. [70% of construction companies in Japan report being unable to take on medium or large projects](https://asia.nikkei.com/business/construction/japan-builders-turn-down-big-projects-because-of-labor-crunch-poll?ref=japanearthobserver.com) \[Nikkei Asia\] in 2026, primarily due to labor shortages. This affects every sector of society, including high tech sectors, like geospatial, AI, and space. Ideally, the way out of this will be a combination of rapid increases in productivity that enable every Japanese company to do more with fewer people, sustained wage increases that reflect the higher productivity, and either extension of the labor market to skilled immigrants or expansion to overseas locations. Infrastructure and manufacturing construction projects are particularly hard hit. ## FOSS4G 2026 will be held in Hiroshima There are dozens, if not a hundred or more geospatial technology conferences held around the world every year. Over the course of my career, one of the most consistently interesting has been the Free and Open Source for Geospatial (FOSS4G) conferences. FOSS4G is organized as both international and regional events under the aegis of [Open Source Geospatial Foundation (OSGeo)](https://www.osgeo.org/?ref=japanearthobserver.com), often in collaboration with a regional chapter. There has been an international FOSS4G conference held almost every year since 2004\. The event is organized in a different city each year, and the 2026 event will be held in [Hiroshima 30 Aug - 4 Sept](https://foss4g-2026.github.io/en/?ref=japanearthobserver.com) (English) ([in Japanese](https://foss4g-2026.github.io/ja/?ref=japanearthobserver.com)) at the International Conference Center Hiroshima. This will be the first FOSS4G held Japan and it promises to be a significant event for anyone engaged in open source, open data, and open standards development. The calls for [session proposals](https://foss4g-2026.github.io/en/call-for-papers/general-sessions/?ref=japanearthobserver.com), [academic papers](https://foss4g-2026.github.io/en/call-for-papers/academic-track/?ref=japanearthobserver.com), and half-day [technical workshop proposals](https://foss4g-2026.github.io/en/call-for-papers/workshops/?ref=japanearthobserver.com) are now open with deadlines in March. [Registration](https://foss4g-2026.github.io/en/register/registration/?ref=japanearthobserver.com) will open in late February with super-early bird tickets only ¥40,000 (\~US $265). I plan on attending and look forward to seeing old friends and meeting new ones. ![10-foss4g-hiroshima.jpeg](https://storage.ghost.io/c/54/e9/54e9159b-1345-41dd-b7dd-180de33edc5b/content/images/2026/02/10-foss4g-hiroshima.jpeg) ## And that’s not all… Above, I’ve outlined some of the high profile activity to watch for the coming year. There is a lot happening, but this list elides the array of manufacturers, service providers, and people that are behind the headlines, not to mention all of the downstream services that leverage EO and other geospatial data. Behind every one of the above projects is a complex human and material supply chain that is inventing and building the new technology that will be necessary to make them possible. For example, Eagle Industry is developing high performance seals for turbopumps that push liquid fuel into rocket engines; Composite Tailors creates carbon fiber reinforced polymers for space optical equipment; and Kurita Water Industries is working on water purification systems for a future lunar base. Once available, there is another downstream ecosystem of organizations that consume the services and infrastructure in order to provide new products and services that the headline projects will provide. It’s worth watching Degas Africa, Asia Air Survey, Kokusai Kougyou, Mierune, and Sagri many other geospatial data services companies in the coming year. And developments in Japan will not happen in a vacuum. There are several planned missions to the moon, including China’s complex Chang’e 7 to the lunar south pole. SpaceX will be trying to get Starship V3 off the ground again; a successful series of launches will support future crewed missions to the moon and could again reduce launch costs. Artemis II is expected to launch as soon as February and carry a human crew around the moon and back. China is planning to launch a Xuntian, a large space telescope that will orbit alongside the Tiangong space station. NASA plans to launch the Nancy Grace Roman Telescope, a major new infrared telescope to explore the cosmos. India’s Gaganyaan-1, China’s Menzhou 1, and Boeing Starliner launches will test systems that are intended to become future crewed spacecraft. The U.S.-China rivalry to reach the moon with a crewed spacecraft is headline news, but the global space industry is a complex ecosystem that mixes competition and cooperation. On the cooperation front, I am hopeful that ongoing discussions at UN COPUOS (Committee on the Peaceful Uses of Outer Space) will result in increased adoption of guidelines for reducing space debris as well as improved communication of orbital data that will reduce the chance of future collisions. Further, I think there are many more opportunities for Japan, India, the U.S., China, and the EU to cooperate on space exploration. In July 1975, in the midst of the Cold War, the U.S. and the Soviet Union were able to launch and dock their rival spacecraft in the Apollo-Soyuz Test Project. It was an inspiring display of science and research cooperation. The ISS, CEOS, and weather data sharing have all demonstrated what is possible when many nations work together to accomplish what they could not do on their own, and we need more of this type of cooperation to manage our shared resources. Debris mitigation, orbital management, bandwidth sharing, lunar exploration, and disaster response are all areas in which the leading space-faring nations can work together, build shared understanding, and advance the frontiers of science and technology. And I think Japan occupies a unique position that could help catalyze such efforts. ![11-apollo-soyuz-crew-nasa.jpg](https://storage.ghost.io/c/54/e9/54e9159b-1345-41dd-b7dd-180de33edc5b/content/images/2026/02/11-apollo-soyuz-crew-nasa.jpg) The joint U.S.-USSR crew for the Apollo-Soyuz Test Mission in July 1975\. Source: NASA --- If you’ve made it this far, thank you for reading. Please be in touch [via LinkedIn](https://www.linkedin.com/in/rcheetham/?ref=japanearthobserver.com) with any feedback, questions, comments, or requests for future topics. And if you have a friend or colleague that you think would enjoy JEO, please share it! Until next time, Robert --- Evening snow; people passing by in silence. – Kobayashi Issa (1763–1828) - translated by David LaSpina 夕雪や 人の通るも だまりつつ Yūyuki ya hito no tōru mo damaritsutsu ### JEO 9 - News Roundup - 11 Feb 2026 URL: https://www.japanearthobserver.com/jeo-9-news-roundup-11-feb-2026/ Last updated: 2026-02-11T13:30:12.000Z *Welcome to Japan Earth Observer (JEO), a free monthly newsletter with a news roundup and one in-depth article about the space, Earth observation and geospatial industries in Japan.* A new year brings reflection on what went well, what could be improved, and how to get there. Looking back on the first year of Japan Earth Observer, I am satisfied with what I have published but unhappy with the cadence and consistency. First, the things that brought satisfaction. - *Balancing topic diversity and focus* \- I think I found a good range of topics about which I’m curious and have held my attention. I have a broad range of interests and read widely, so keeping this newsletter within a bounded set of topics - space, Earth observation, and geospatial industries in Japan - was an accomplishment in itself. - *Adequate material* \- I found enough material on an ongoing basis to fill a newsletter on this somewhat niche topic. I aimed for monthly, but I think I now have enough sources that I could publish bi-weekly or even weekly and still have enough material. - *Longer articles* \- I was able to find a range of topics about which I was sufficiently interested that I could write a longer, more in-depth article. - *History + Now* \- I have noticed that I particularly enjoy the research and writing that combines history with contemporary events (see the most recent article on the [zaibatsu, keiretsu, trading companies, and space](https://www.japanearthobserver.com/jeo-8-japanese-trading-companies-and-orbital-real-estate/)), so I want to continue exploring that approach. - *Finding my voice* \- As I learn more, I am gradually developing my own opinions, and I am more willing to interject them in the newsletter. When I read other newsletters, I have found that I learn more when the authors inject their own interpretation on events in a clear way. So in JEO 7 and 8, I started writing additional notes with a “Why does this matter?” on some news notes, and I’d like to continue doing that. - *Expanding network of relationships* \- Writing the newsletter has enabled me to meet a bunch of people in the industry with shared interests, and this has been a source of both meaning and learning. - *Building a database of the Japanese industry landscape* \- As I’ve learned about all of the interesting work happening in Japan, I’ve begun to build a database of companies, government entities, academic institutions, and non-profit organizations doing related work. This meant going slower in the fall, when I was adding a lot of organizations to the database, but is now helping me research faster as it becomes more of an asset. - *Improving my Japanese skills was one of the goals* \- I’ve been able to use the process of assembling the newsletter as a way to continue improving my Japanese language skills in a way that is more interesting to me than conventional study. This has often meant watching of hours of [JAXA news conferences](https://www.youtube.com/@JAXA-HQ/videos?ref=japanearthobserver.com), rocket launch play-by-plays, and geospatial conference proceedings on YouTube, but these have turned out to be fascinating and the the videos have proven helpful for both learning the vast amount of technical vocabulary that I haven’t yet acquired and to train my ear on a different aspect of the Japanese language than I’d previously developed. And my [Anki](https://apps.ankiweb.net/?ref=japanearthobserver.com) flashcard deck has exploded in size. On the “what could be better” side of the ledger is the *cadence* and *consistency*. I initially aimed for one newsletter per month and mostly pulled it off in the first half of the year, but the wheels fell off after that. As the year progressed, I found many more sources for news, but I did not develop an adequate set of tools to review and summarize them faster. In addition, I worked on a few longer articles in the latter half of the year that often took longer than I expected to research and write, thereby holding up the news portion such that it felt stale (at least to me) by the time it was published. This culminated with JEO 8 in early January. When printed out it was almost 60 pages and the news was mostly two months old already. I don’t think most people want a 60 page newsletter with stale news, so I’m going to be making some changes starting with this newsletter. 1. *Split the newsletter into two types* \- “News Roundups” that can be sent out more frequently and longer articles that will go out on a less frequent basis as standalone articles. My inspiration for this approach is [Adam Tooze’s excellent Chartbook](https://adamtooze.substack.com/) newsletter, which publishes “Top Links” daily and a longer “Chartbook” weekly. I don’t think I can match his output, but I’d like to aim for more frequent news versions plus less frequent longer pieces. 2. *Mix shorter and longer articles* \- For the more in-depth articles, I think I’m going to try to write a mix of shorter pieces interspersed with longer, researched articles. So, in summary, more, but less; more newsletters, but shorter and less in each one. If you have feedback, please don’t hesitate to be in touch. On to the news. ## News & Announcements - The **Urban Data Challenge** (UDC) (アーバンデータチャレンジ) has [announced the finalists for its 2025 competition](https://urbandata-challenge.jp/news/2025-finalist%20?ref=japanearthobserver.com). The UDC is an annual national design competition held since 2013 that promotes the use of data (primarily open, public, geospatial data), in order to solve local problems. Teams develop and submit software applications, data sets, activities, and concepts. Submissions are judged based on practical utility, completeness of the solution, degree of innovation, team diversity, duration, and likelihood of continuity. The contest has two divisions - a General Division and a Business Professional Division - each with monetary prizes for top submissions as well as special awards for projects that use GTFS transit, the Bodik data catalog, or have a social infrastructure focus. The UDC is organized by the [**Association for Promotion of Infrastructure Geospatial Information Distribution (AIGID)**](https://aigid.jp/?ref=japanearthobserver.com) (一般社団法人社会基盤情報流通推進協議会) in collaboration with [**Code for Japan**](https://www.code4japan.org/?ref=japanearthobserver.com) (一般社団法人コード・フォー・ジャパン) and sponsorship from the [**Japan Construction Information Center (JACIC)**](https://www.jacic.or.jp/?ref=japanearthobserver.com) (一般財団法人日本建設情報総合センター). Each annual cycle begins with information sessions in the summer and fall, giving teams a chance to network and assemble. The submission deadline is in December and a first round of judging narrows the list to several finalists in each category. The final selection process is an event in February. This year it will be held 21 Feb at University of Tokyo's Komaba Research Campus (東京大学駒場リサーチキャンパス) ![01-urban-data-challenge-logo.png](https://storage.ghost.io/c/54/e9/54e9159b-1345-41dd-b7dd-180de33edc5b/content/images/2026/02/01-urban-data-challenge-logo.png) ### 💱 Contracts and Funding - **Synspective** inked new distribution contracts with Japanese firm [PASCO](https://synspective.com/jp/information/2025/pasco/?ref=japanearthobserver.com) and Australia firm [Geospatial Intelligence](https://synspective.com/jp/press-release/2025/geospatial-intelligence/?ref=japanearthobserver.com) to broaden the availability of its SAR imagery.. - Japanese launch startup **Interstellar Technologies** has [closed a ￥20.1 billion (\~US $130 million) Series F funding round](https://www.istellartech.com/en%5Fnews/11043?ref=japanearthobserver.com) \[Interstellar\] from an array of new and existing investors with a mix of debt and equity. The round was led by Woven by Toyota and included SBI Group, Nomura Real Estate Development, B Dash Venture, SMBC Edge, SMBC, Japanet Holdings, Space Frontier Fund II, and others. This round brings Interstellar's total fund-raising to ￥44.6 billion (\~US $288 million). Other R&D funding has come from JAXA SBIR and Space Strategy Fund contracts. The funds will be used to continue work on the ZERO small launch vehicle currently expected to make a first launch attempt in 2027, as well as for scaling its rocket and satellite manufacturing capacity. Speaking of ZERO’s maiden flight, Interstellar recently [secured three more satellite launch customers](https://www.istellartech.com/news/releases/10943?ref=japanearthobserver.com) for the first flight. This expansion of the manifest for the inaugural mission underscores the growing demand for dedicated small-satellite launch services. - *Why does this matter?* This represents one of the largest startup funding rounds in Japanese space industry history. From what I can tell, it’s an all-Japanese crew of investors, suggesting that while many people in the Japanese tech industry decry the paltry size of the private capital markets in Japan, when push comes to shove, the funds can come together. Nonetheless, I think that leveraging startup capital in the US, Singapore, Europe, and elsewhere would help Japanese firms scale more effectively. - **BULL** [raised a seed round to support development of its space debris prevention devices](https://prtimes.jp/main/html/rd/p/000000023.000113020.html?ref=japanearthobserver.com) \[BULL\], a “sail” that can be extended at the end of a satellite’s service life in order to accelerate deorbit and prevent a satellite from becoming debris. Investors included Frontier Innovations and Tokio Marine & Nichido Fire Insurance as well as debt financing from Ashikaga Bank and Sumitomo Mitsui Bank. - **SPACE SHIFT** announced an [additional Series B funding](https://www.spcsft.com/en/news-en/2766/?ref=japanearthobserver.com) \[SPACE SHIFT\] from NI-WA Co., Nagase & Co., and General Incorporated Association G·B.. The funds will used for R&D, overseas expansion, and further development of their AI software technology using synthetic aperture radar (SAR) centered on SAR (Synthetic Aperture Radar) for data analysis - **Astroscale** is having a pretty good run of contract wins since the new year: - **Astroscale US** has been [selected by NASA to assess the ability to service the Habitable Worlds Observatory (HWO)](https://www.astroscale-us.com/en/news/astroscale-us-to-study-serviceability-for-nasas-habitable-worlds-observatory?ref=japanearthobserver.com) \[Astroscale\]. The HWO is a next generation space telescope planned for development in the late 2030s and launch in the early 2040s. It is intended to build on the achievements of the [Hubble](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Hubble%5FSpace%5FTelescope?ref=japanearthobserver.com), [Webb](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/James%5FWebb%5FSpace%5FTelescope?ref=japanearthobserver.com), and soon-to-be-launched [Roman](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Nancy%5FGrace%5FRoman%5FSpace%5FTelescope?ref=japanearthobserver.com) space observatories and continue the search for Earth-size exoplanets in the habitable zone of their stars. The current HWO design calls for the telescope to be sited at the L2 Lagrange point (the same location as the James Webb Space Telescope) in order to provide a dark, cold, ultra-stable, gravitationally-balanced location. However, while the Hubble Space Telescope orbits close enough to the Earth that it could be serviced by the Space Shuttle or other conventional rockets, the L2 point is 1.5 million kilometers from Earth, well beyond the Moon. NASA wants to determine if there will be a way to service the telescope using robotic spacecraft, and, if so, build the serviceability into the design. To that end, they have awarded Astroscale US a three-year contract to try to figure out how to do it. - *Why does this matter?* The Webb and Roman telescopes are being launched without an established ability to remotely service them The Hubble servicing missions by the Space Shuttle dramatically extended that telescope’s life and it’s still being used to do great science today. If Astroscale can develop a cost effective approach to servicing a telescope out at L2, it will substantially mitigate the risk of these exquisite and expensive machines. Astroscale probably has more experience with satellite servicing and orbital sustainability than any other company in the world, and they are a great choice for this project. However, this challenge will clearly require some serious innovation. I look forward to seeing what they come up with. - **Astroscale UK** has been [awarded a €399,000 contract by ESA](https://www.innovationnewsnetwork.com/astroscale-wins-350000-contract-to-transform-in-orbit-servicing/65595/?ref=japanearthobserver.com) \[Innovation News\] (\~¥74 million) to lead the design of an In-Orbit Refurbishment and Upgrading Service (IRUS) concept to enable satellites to be upgraded, repaired, and refurbished while in orbit. It's a short, 8-month contract that presumably will be followed up with actual development, demonstrations, and testing. This Phase A engagement will enable Astroscale and partner BAE Systems to do some technical feasibility work as well as outline the commercial case for in-orbit servicing activities. This fits into ESA's Zero Debris strategy that aims to stop adding new debris by 2030 and being "space-debris neutral" by 2040 (no net new debris being added to the obits). - **Astroscale Japan** [won a Japan Ministry of Defense (JMoD) contract to develop a satellite gripping system for grabbing orbiting satellites](https://www.astroscale.com/en/news/astroscale-japan-awarded-ministry-of-defense-contract-to-develop-gripping?ref=japanearthobserver.com) under a range of conditions. This is being framed as satellite servicing and sustainability, but one could also imagine the utility of a robotic grappling arm for use against an adversary in a conflict. The ¥1 billion (\~US $6.7 million) contract will run for 28 months (Dec 2025 - Mar 2028) and will result in ground-based demonstrations of the developed capabilities. This is Astroscale's second contract with JMoD (first was awarded in Feb 2025). ![02-l2-langrange-point-esa-diagram.jpg](https://storage.ghost.io/c/54/e9/54e9159b-1345-41dd-b7dd-180de33edc5b/content/images/2026/02/02-l2-langrange-point-esa-diagram.jpg) L2 Lagrange point diagram. Source: ESA - **ArkEdge Space** and **Seiren** [signed an MOU to strengthen cooperation toward mass production of ultra-small satellites](https://arkedgespace.com/news/2025-12-09%5Fmou?ref=japanearthobserver.com), accelerating constellation business development through advanced manufacturing partnerships. The partnership aims to leverage Seiren's manufacturing capabilities to scale up satellite production for ArkEdge Space's planned constellation deployments. - **Orbital Lasers** has been [awarded a contract by the Japan Ministry of Defense (JMoD)](https://www.orbitallasers.com/2025/12/03/%E5%A4%A7%E5%9E%8B%E5%A5%91%E7%B4%84%E3%81%AE%E5%8F%97%E6%B3%A8%E3%81%AB%E9%96%A2%E3%81%99%E3%82%8B%E3%81%8A%E7%9F%A5%E3%82%89%E3%81%9B-2/?ref=japanearthobserver.com) to develop and prototype space-based laser technology for ranging and measurement purposes. The ¥2.05 million (\~US $13,700). It’s a small contract, but it’s a young company and must feel like a vote of confidence. - **Axelspace** signed several agreements including: - [A partnership agreement with South Korea's **Nara Space Technology**](https://www.axelspace.com/news/naraspace%5Fpartnership/?ref=japanearthobserver.com), to distribute the imagery it collects via its Grus satellites. Nara Space both builds satellites and operates a data analytics platform, EarthPaper, through which Axelspace’s imagery will be distributed. - [A multi-launch agreement](https://www.axelspace.com/ja/news/multi%5Flaunch%5Fagreement%5Fwith%5Fexolaunch/?ref=japanearthobserver.com) with global launch integrator **Exolaunch**, securing future deployment capacity for their constellation expansion. - **Pale Blue** [signed a contract with **Axelspace** to fly and test its advanced PBH-100 electric Hall thruster](https://pale-blue.co.jp/news/1246/?ref=japanearthobserver.com) propulsion system on the AxelLiner Laboratory platform scheduled for launch in 2027\. The PBH-100 is designed for 50–200 kg class satellites, offering a balance of high thrust and high specific impulse with a significantly reduced startup time compared to conventional Hall thrusters. - **Astroscale** has secured a new U.S. [patent (No. 12,479,603 B2) for an innovative, low-fuel method for docking and servicing satellites that are rotating uncontrollably](https://news.satnews.com/2025/12/16/astroscale-secures-patent-for-fuel-free-capture-of-tumbling-satellites/?ref=japanearthobserver.com) \[SatNews\]. Approaching a chaotically tumbling spacecraft is inherently risky as uncontrolled contact can result in impacts and fragmentation. Under the new patent, an approaching spacecraft can use internal weights to shift its center of mass (act as a countermass) and generate inertia to approach without need for contact or chemical rocket thrust. Once the servicing satellite has synchronized its rotation with the client satellite, it can be captured by a robotic arm or other device with zero relative rotational velocity. Once captured, stabilized and secured, the client satellite can be serviced, including refueling, repair, orbital transfer, de-orbit, or maintenance. - *Why does this matter?* This is Astroscale's [second patent in a few months](https://www.japanearthobserver.com/jeo-8-japanese-trading-companies-and-orbital-real-estate/#news-announcements). In August it was awarded a patent for an innovative method to de-orbit satellites through the use of “servicer” and “shepherd” vehicles. Patents represent a short-term monopoly during which time a firm can leverage the technology to build competitive advantage. If another firm wants to use Astroscale’s approach, they will have to partner or license the technology from them. ![03-astroscale-patent-diagram.png](https://storage.ghost.io/c/54/e9/54e9159b-1345-41dd-b7dd-180de33edc5b/content/images/2026/02/03-astroscale-patent-diagram.png) Diagram from Astroscale patent award. Source: U.S. Patent Office No. 12,479,603 B2 - **Mitsubishi Corporation** (三菱商事株式会社) has [expanded its partnership with **Starlab Space**](https://starlab-space.com/press-releases/mitsubishi-corporation-joins-starlab-as-major-space-station-customer/%20?ref=japanearthobserver.com) by increasing its investment, becoming a major customer by pre-purchasing payload capacity on the future space station, and joining the Board of Directors. Mitsubishi Corp (not to be confused with a dozen or more other related companies with "Mitsubishi" in their names) is a trading company. Trading companies (sōgō shōsha 総合商社) are a uniquely Japanese corporation that originally arose in the late 19th century and bear similarities to firms like Berkshire-Hathaway (which owns significant shares in five Japanese trading companies) or the Dutch/English East India companies. They serve as import/export trading hubs on behalf of other Japanese companies as well as investors and business operators in a wide array of sectors. - I wrote at length in [JEO 8 about the trading companies and their interest in commercial space station startups](https://www.japanearthobserver.com/jeo-8-japanese-trading-companies-and-orbital-real-estate/#japanese-trading-companies-and-orbital-real-estate). Mitsubishi was already heavily invested in Starlab Space and this represents them doubling down on that bet. Starlab won't be launching this year, but their first module will face a Critical Design Review (CDR), and a full-scale mockup will be assembled in Houston at Johnson Space Center in order to test human factors design and operations. - **Sumitomo Mitsui Trust Bank (SMTB)** is also making [an investment in Starlab](https://starlab-space.com/press-releases/starlab-announces-investment-from-sumitomo-mitsui-trust-bank-limited/?ref=japanearthobserver.com) joining joining Mitsubishi Corp. (see above), Voyager Technologies, Palantir, MDA Space, Airbus, and Space Application Services. - **Sojitz Corporation** (another Japanese trading company) [signed an agreement with Australian launch provider](https://www.gspace.com/post/gilmour-space-signs-agreement-with-sojitz-corporation?ref=japanearthobserver.com) **Gilmour Space Technologies** to explore satellite and launch service opportunities. The partnership aims to combine Gilmour’s sovereign Eris rocket launch capabilities with Sojitz’s global aerospace network to advance space activities across the Asia-Pacific region. This move aligns with Sojitz's strategic focus on expanding its presence in the growing private launch sector. Gilmour has followed up the Sojitz agreement with a [major Series E private equity investment](https://www.gspace.com/post/gilmour-space-secures-major-australian-investment-to-scale-sovereign-space-capability?ref=japanearthobserver.com) of AU $217 million (\~US$145 million) to fund and scale it’s operations. - **MJOLNIR SPACEWORKS** was [selected for Year 2 funding under JAXA's Space Strategic Fund](https://mjolnir-sw.com/news/%E5%BD%93%E7%A4%BE%E3%80%81%E5%AE%87%E5%AE%99%E6%88%A6%E7%95%A5%E5%9F%BA%E9%87%91%E3%81%AB%E6%8E%A1%E6%8A%9E%E3%80%824%E5%B9%B4%E9%96%93%E3%81%A7%E7%B7%8F%E9%A1%8D18%E5%84%84%E5%86%86%E3%81%AE/?ref=japanearthobserver.com) (宇宙戦略基金) totaling ¥1.8 billion (\~US $12 million ) over four years to carry out R&D aimed at mass production of its ultra-lightweight rocket fuel storage systems. Mjolnir has been developing a hybrid plastic polymer/liquid oxidizer rocket engine as well as weldless field tanks. This R&D support will build on that work and, from JAXA’s perspective, is aimed at supporting advances in rocket components that contribute to high-frequency launches; JAXA wants to have at least 30 launches per year by the early 2030s. - **ispace**, **Japan Airlines (JAL)**, **JAL Engineering (JALEC)**, and **JALUX** signed an [agreement to collaborate on "building transportation systems and infrastructure supporting sustainable lunar surface activities.”](https://ispace-inc.com/jpn/news/?p=8200&ref=japanearthobserver.com) The partnership aims to apply JAL and JALEC's maintenance technology, air traffic control, and flight operation management knowledge cultivated in aviation to ispace's lunar landers and related facilities developing systems and infrastructure supporting future lunar habitats and high-frequency spacecraft takeoffs and landings. - *My take:* I know everyone and their brother is trying to get back to the moon but applying Japan Airline’s expertise is air traffic control and high frequency takeoffs and landings feels like folks are getting rather out over their skis on the lunar travel biz. - **Ispace** also signed a contracts with - **JAXA** to [develop electric pump systems for lunar lander propellant systems](https://ispace-inc.com/news-en/?p=8346&ref=japanearthobserver.com) \[ispace\]. The R&D is aimed at reducing the weight of the overall propulsion system while minimizing power consumption during flight. The study will build on ispace's experience on Missions 1 and 2. - A strategic partnership MOU with **Kurita Water Industries (栗田工業株式会社)** for [water resource development on the lunar surface](https://ispace-inc.com/news-en/?p=8208&ref=japanearthobserver.com) \[ispace\]. This follows Kurita's March 2025 payload transport agreement and October 2025 investment in ispace. The collaboration combines Kurita's water treatment technology and knowledge with ispace's commercial lunar exploration and transportation service. - Agriculture data analytics firm **Sagri** [received Japan patent No. 7761891 for an innovative process they have developed for estimating greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions from farmland](https://sagri.tokyo/en/2025/11/13/ghg-patent/?ref=japanearthobserver.com) using satellite EO data, and the proposal of paddy field management improvements that reduce emissions. The new technology has been integrated into their SagriVision product being used in the Philippines, Vietnam, and Cambodia with the aim of earning carbon credits. - **Space One** has [scheduled the third launch attempt of its solid-fuel KAIROS rocket from Spaceport Kii in Wakayama Prefecture](https://worldinsight.com/news/tech-science/kairos-launch-vehicle-no-3-to-retry-on-february-25-japans-private-space-sector-takes-a-do-or-die-challenge/?ref=japanearthobserver.com) on 25 Feb 2026\. The KAIROS rocket has already failed twice before in March and December 2024, so a lot is riding on this launch for Space One and its investors as well as Spaceport Kii, the first private spaceport in Japan. Further, KAIROS No. 3 is carrying five satellites from Taiwan's TASA space agency, Terra Space, Space Cubics, ArkEdge Space, and HErO, a satellite developed by Tokyo middle school and high school students. - *Why does this matter?* While Rocket Lab has dominated the small launch vehicle market over the past few years, as it moves upmarket with its medium-lift Neutron rocket, several competitors are vying for the small payload market, and Space One has a window of opportunity to establish itself ahead of its small launch competitors. ![04-kairos-rocket.jpg](https://storage.ghost.io/c/54/e9/54e9159b-1345-41dd-b7dd-180de33edc5b/content/images/2026/02/04-kairos-rocket.jpg) KAIROS rocket lifting off from Spaceport KIi. Source: Space One - **Synspective** and **GMO Cybersecurity by Ierae** are launching a [joint R&D effort on satellite cybersecurity](https://news.satnews.com/2025/12/10/synspective-partners-with-gmo-cybersecurity-to-fortify-smallsat-defense-architectures/%20?ref=japanearthobserver.com) \[SatNews\]. GMO Cybersecurity is a subsidiary of GMO Internet Group and is a leading cybersecurity professional services firm in Japan and claims to have the largest team of white-hack hackers in the country. They provide services to corporations and governments such as penetration testing, security assessment, incident response, consulting, training, and cyber attack defense. They will be applying their experience with terrestrial cybersecurity to identify threats and countermeasures for satellite constellations. The goal of the joint R&D effort will be a standardized framework for security evaluation during the satellite design and development process. - *Why does this matter?* JAXA and JMoD have experienced several high profile security incidents in recent years. As Synspective, iQPS, AxelSpace, and other startups become an increasing source of defense intelligence, they will need to give much more consideration to cyberdefenses. - **iQPS** has [converted from a standalone company to a holding company structure](https://i-qps.net/news/3308/?ref=japanearthobserver.com) (in Japanese). As a consequence, its stock ticker has changed from TYO: 5595 to TYO: 464A and its legal name has changed from “QPS Research Institute Inc.” (QPS研究所) to “QPS Holdings, Inc.” (QPSホールディングス) with QPS Research Institute now a subsidiary fo the holding company. - *Why does this matter?* This won’t mean much for current shareholders - it’s a 1:1 share swap. However, many companies find a holding company (under which there might be multiple operating companies) to be a more flexible structure. It can simplify spinoff of subsidiaries, acquisitions, international offices, and joint ventures. It can also help with risk management by isolating the high-risk satellite launch and operations business from other corporate assets. One of its early major investors, SKY Perfect JSAT, has a similar holding company structure, though, ironically, it is planning to unwind the holding company structure in 2026\. We can probably anticipate acquisitions, joint ventures, or spinoff of new business units in the coming year. - **SkyPerfect JSAT** has [signed a contract with SpaceX to launch communications satellites](https://en.skyperfectjsat.space/en/news/20251208?ref=japanearthobserver.com) \[JSAT\] JSAT-31 and JSAT-32\. This adds to a previous contract to launch Superbird-9, with the three satellites to be launched in 2027 and 2028 in order to provide communications coverage to Japan, East Asia, SE Asia, and Oceania - - **IHI** signed a [contract with the Finnish SAR satellite company, ICEYE](https://asia.nikkei.com/business/aerospace-defense-industries/japan-s-ihi-signs-satellite-constellation-deal-with-finland-manufacturer2?ref=japanearthobserver.com) \[Nikkei Asia\], to provide a 24-satellite constellation by FY 2029\. ICEYE will manufacture the constellation in Japan and will initially deliver four satellites that will launch in FY 2026\. Based on performance, IHI has the option to purchase 20 more. The initial ICEYE purchase is part of a much broader constellation that IHI is building to include 100 satellites by 2030. - **Toyota Ventures** and **Woven Capital** joined a US $510 million [Series D investment round in Stoke Space](https://payloadspace.com/stoke-raises-510m-to-accelerate-nova-rocket-launch/?ref=japanearthobserver.com) \[Payload\], a U.S. rocket developer, to support development of its Nova rocket and launch facilities at LC14 in Cape Canaveral Space Force Station in Florida. - **ElevationSpace** and Axiom Space [signed a contract to provide a returnable reentry capsule](https://asia.nikkei.com/business/aerospace-defense-industries/axiom-and-japan-startup-team-to-deliver-cargo-from-space-to-earth?ref=japanearthobserver.com) \[Nikkei Asia\]. [Axiom is one of the leading efforts to develop a commercial space station](https://www.japanearthobserver.com/jeo-8-japanese-trading-companies-and-orbital-real-estate/#japanese-trading-companies-and-orbital-real-estate) \[JEO 8\] in anticipation of the ISS’s end in 2030\. In the meantime, Axiom will launch a spacecraft that will dock with the ISS in 2027\. The ElevationSpace Aoba re-entry capsule will return materials to Earth while refining its technology for precision landing. ElevationSpace’s Aoba spacecraft includes a re-entry capsule, an engine, a power supply, and control systems. ElevationSpace’s re-entry capsules are based on a design developed by aerospace engineer Yoshida Kazuo at Tohoku University. Yoshida has major street-cred as he also worked on the Japanese asteroid probe Hayabusa. - *Why does this matter?* Being able to bring back material developed in low Earth orbit is a key element of making commercial space stations financially viable. Axiom wants to manufacture semiconductors and pharmaceuticals in orbit and then return them economically to Earth. ElevationSpace has the necessary tech to get the material back safely. ![05-elevation-space-re-entry-satellite.jpg](https://storage.ghost.io/c/54/e9/54e9159b-1345-41dd-b7dd-180de33edc5b/content/images/2026/02/05-elevation-space-re-entry-satellite.jpg) ElevationSpace re-entry capsule. Source: ElevationSpace - **Artiza Networks** has agreed to [distribute Square Peg Communications’ RLS-2100 Radio Link Simulator in the Japanese market](https://news.satnews.com/2025/10/15/square-peg-communications-artiza-networks-partner-to-deliver-advanced-satcom-uav-simulation-capabilities-to-japanese-market/?ref=japanearthobserver.com) \[SatNews\]. The RLS-2100 is used by satellite manufactures, ground stations operators, and integrators to simulate satellite communications environments in a lab setting prior to launch. Manufacturers and operators can do integration testing on the ground and avoid expensive orbital tests. ### 🛰️ Technology and Infrastructure - **JAXA** has [delayed the launch of navigation satellite Michibiki 7 (QZS-7)](https://global.jaxa.jp/press/2026/01/20260107-1%5Fe.html?ref=japanearthobserver.com). The launch was scheduled for Feb 2 from Tanegashima on an H3 rocket, but the second stage failure of the last H3 rocket on 22 December has led to an investigation that has suspended future H3 launches. The failed launch in December was also a navigation satellite, Michibiki 5 (QZS-5), and the combination of QZS-5 and QZS-7 would have completed Japan’s QZSS navigation system. - *Why does this matter?* This is a significant setback for **JAXA**, **Mitsubishi Heavy Industries (三菱重工業株式会社), Mitsubishi Electric (三菱電機株式会社)**, and their partners. Not only was QZS-5 an expensive satellite, its loss delays the completion of the [7-satellite configuration of the QZSS](https://www.japanearthobserver.com/japan-earth-observer-2-the-curious-orbits-of-qzss/#the-qzss-a-gps-for-japan-but-better) \[JEO\] that Japan needs to be able to have a higher accuracy and standalone global navigation system. It is also a setback for the H3 rocket, which, after an initial failure, has had an otherwise successful launch record. The initial reports are that when the payload fairing separated, it [impacted both the satellite attachment point, prematurely releasing the satellite, and damaged fuel pipes on the second stage](https://www.nippon.com/en/news/yjj2026012000673/?ref=japanearthobserver.com) \[Nippon.com\]. It is unclear how long it will take Mitsubishi Electric to manufacture a new satellite to replace the one that was lost, but it will be even more important for JAXA and MHI to return the H3 rocket to service. In addition to QZS-7 and at least one HTV-X cargo trip to the ISS, Japan is planning a high profile Martian Moons eXploration (MMX) mission in 2026. - The **JAXA Space Strategy Fund** has [released a collection of one-page summaries of Year 1 projects](https://fund.jaxa.jp/content/uploads/20251020%5F1st%5Fterm%5FPR%5Fsheets.pdf?ref=japanearthobserver.com) supported by the Fund. It's a lot of slides, but it’s a pretty great overview of how JAXA of the range of technologies being targeted for research and development. ![05a-jaxa-ssf-year1-report-example.png](https://storage.ghost.io/c/54/e9/54e9159b-1345-41dd-b7dd-180de33edc5b/content/images/2026/02/05a-jaxa-ssf-year1-report-example.png) A page from the Japan Space Strategy Fund Year 1 showcase. Source: JAXA - **Space Compass** and **Hellas Sat** [signed an MOU to support connections between their inter-satellite optical communication networks](https://space-compass.com/news/000081.html?ref=japanearthobserver.com). Space Compass is a joint venture of **SKY Perfect JSAT** and **NTT** aimed at developing an on-orbit, high-capacity optical communication network and computing infrastructure in space. By agreeing to interconnect with the European satellite operator, they are laying the groundwork for a future interoperable data relay infrastructure in orbit. This type of high-speed network will be necessary to support future Earth observation applications. - *Why does this matter?* As larger constellations of EO satellites capture higher resolution imagery, their downlink capacity to the Earth becomes more complex. By linking satellites together via high-speed laser networks, the constellations will be better able to align data downlink with ground station availability. But this type of interconnectivity will require protocols and standards between both friendly and competitive networks - you could think of it as a new internet for on-orbit connectivity. This agreement is an important step that will need to be followed by dozens more in order to make an interoperable, laser-linked network in space. - **Space BD** had successfully integrated and supported two launches: - [CoRAL satellite](https://space-bd.com/en/3116/?ref=japanearthobserver.com), a 2U CubeSat for Sapienza University of Rome and Thales Alenia Space Italia. CoRAL is a technology demonstrator for IoT inter-satellite communication and radio-frequency interference (RFI) monitoring. - Ten satellites for **ArkEdge Space** and other companies on the [SpaceX Transporter-15 rideshare mission](https://space-bd.com/en/3137/?ref=japanearthobserver.com) \[Space BD\]. Of the ten, [three were ultra-small ArkEdge satellites](https://arkedgespace.com/news/2025-12-01%5Fae5r?ref=japanearthobserver.com) \[ArkEdge\] (AE5Ra, AE5Rb, AE5Rc) brought the total AE series constellation to 12 satellites, with 9 satellites becoming operational in the past year. - **JAXA**’s contract with Rocket Lab saw the successful launch of the Rapid Innovative Satellite Technology Demonstration-4 (RAISE-4) satellite on an Electron rocket. The RAISE series of missions serves as a testbed for validating new satellite components, subsystems, and operational concepts that will inform the design of future Japanese spacecraft. RAISE-4 carries sixteen experiments - [eight cubesats and eight component subsystems](https://www.kenkai.jaxa.jp/kakushin/kakushin04.html?ref=japanearthobserver.com) \- all of which were [confirmed operational following launch](https://www.jaxa.jp/press/2025/12/20251217-3%5Fj.htmll?ref=japanearthobserver.com) \[JAXA\]. - **IHI** and **IHI Aerospace** also had a payload, the [compact hyperspectral satellite IHI-SAT2](https://www.ihi.co.jp/ia/news/index.html?ref=japanearthobserver.com) \[IHI\], on SpaceX's Transporter-15 rocket. The 6U satellite has a three-year planned lifetime, during which it will acquire hyperspectral satellite imagery. Hyperspectral imagery can capture information in broader and more detailed wavelength bands than conventional optical satellite images, enabling wide-area and high-precision analysis of forest tree species, growth conditions, and disease indicators. IHI plans to use the satellite's imagery for forest management and technology advancement through the joint venture **NeXT FOREST** established with **Sumitomo Forestry**. - Reusable rocket developer **Innovative Space Carrier (ISC)** announced the [cancellation of its ASCA 1.0 initiative to carry out takeoff and landing tests in the United States](https://innovative-space-carrier.co.jp/news/20251223?ref=japanearthobserver.com) \[ISC\] due to low likelihood of obtaining regulatory approval by Q1 2026\. Instead, the company will conduct domestic takeoff and landing demonstrations followed by launch demonstrations targeting fiscal year 2027 and development of a rocket and satellite launch demonstration using a domestically developed rocket engine from Hokkaido Spaceport (HOSPO) by March 2028\. This is a significant shift in ISC’s strategy. In order to reduce risks and accelerate development of its reusable rocket system, in April 2024, ISC signed a collaboration agreement with U.S. rocket engine developer Ursa Major Technologies and [launched the ASCA 1.0 project to develop a reusable rocket system](https://innovative-space-carrier.co.jp/news/20240404?ref=japanearthobserver.com) \[ISC\] using UM's Hadley engines. In the United States, rocket engine technology is generally subject to restrictions as a sensitive technology. But ISC obtained approval from the U.S. government, signed a Technical Assistance Agreement (TAA) with Ursa Major, and was able to import the Hadley engine control computer in order to develop the propulsion and electrical subsystems domestically. The first vertical takeoff and landing test was announced for May 2025\. ISC signed a lease with Spaceport America to conduct the tests in the United States and attempted to receive permission from the FAA. However, slow FAA processes and the government shutdown meant that the test was unlikely to occur anytime soon. So ISC is calling an audible. Going forward, they will do their rocket testing with **Asahi Kasei** at their test facility Takashima City, Shiga Prefecture. - *Why does this matter?* Space business entrepreneurs in the United States level a lot of complaints about the slow, cumbersome regulatory processes at the FAA, FCC, Dept of Commerce, and other regulatory agencies, but clearly they are not the only ones affected. This is a scenario in which a foreign company has licensed U.S. technology and then invested in carrying out testing at a U.S. spaceport, but they can’t get the necessary approvals in a timely manner, so they are throwing up their hands. There are currently bills in Congress aimed at streamlining approval processes (see SPACE Act of 2025 - H.R.3424 and the Space Infrastructure Act - H.R.1154), but the current Congress is hardly a hallmark of streamlined processes, so forecasts of progress remain murky. - **SPACE COTAN**’s **Hokkaido Spaceport (HOSPO)** is attracting new investments as it aims to create a space-focused innovation cluster around the spaceport and nearby town of Taiki. - In July, it hosted the first suborbital launch of a non-Japanese rocket developed by a Taiwanese firm, TiSpace - The Hokkaido Space Summit in October attracted [62 sponsors](https://hokkaidospaceport.com/en/news/1966?ref=japanearthobserver.com). - **SPACE COTAN** and **Mitsui & Co. (三井物産)** signed an MOU, marking the [engagement by one of Japan's major trading companies with domestic spaceport development](https://hokkaidospaceport.com/news/2061?ref=japanearthobserver.com). The partnership signals growing commercial interest in Hokkaido Spaceport's infrastructure and potential for trading house involvement in space logistics and supply chain development. - **SPACE COTAN**, **Sangikyo** and **Sangikyo EOS** signed an [agreement to develop satellite ground station infrastructure](https://hokkaidospaceport.com/en/news/2059?ref=japanearthobserver.com) to support the commercial phase of operation at the spaceport. - L3Harris has [completed a critical design review for sensors that will be launched on the Himwari-10 weather satellite](https://news.satnews.com/2025/12/12/l3harris-technologies-completes-critical-design-review-for-jmas-himawari-10-instruments/?ref=japanearthobserver.com) \[SatNews\]. The new advanced imager will build on the success of Himawari-9 by adding two new spectral bands to improve water vapor measurement and seven others for enhanced resolution. In addition to Himawari 8/9, the L3Harris Advanced Baseline Imager (ABI) is the same primary payload as the U.S. NOAA GOES-R series (GOES-16, -17, -18, and -19) and Korea's GEO-KOMPSAT-2A. The newest generation of the ABI has 12 spectral bands, rather than 4, 4x the spatial resolution, and 5x the temporal coverage. - *Why does this matter?* The fact that a single supplier, L3Harris, supplies the imager for an entire generation of advanced weather satellites could potentially be a vulnerability, but it means that the weather data collected from East Asia to the Atlantic Ocean can be integrated seamlessly. L3Harris is also clearly not resting on its laurels as it continues to make significant advances in capabilities. ### 🔭 Science - Researchers at **Nagoya University** using data from JAXA’s [Arase satellite have reported detecting an enormous “plasmasphere compression”](https://www.space.com/astronomy/sun/earths-protective-plasma-layer-squeezed-by-solar-storm?ref=japanearthobserver.com) during the Gannon solar storm in May 2024\. The plasmasphere is a layer of cold electrically charged particles surrounding the Earth and rotating in conjunction with the Earth’s magnetic field. In many cases, solar storms cause the Earth’s atmosphere to swell, increasing drag on satellites in low Earth orbit (LEO). However, when the sun releases a particularly powerful Coronal Mass Ejection (CME) toward the Earth’s magnetic field, it impacts the plasmasphere and the magnetosphere. The Nagoya researchers were looking at how the plasmasphere and ionosphere reacted during extreme space weather events. Gannon was a particularly strong geomagnetic storm, and they found that it compressed the Earth’s magnetic field and dragged the plasmasphere in toward the planet. The plasmasphere is usually about 44,000 km above the Earth’s surface (beyond the 36,000km orbit of typical geostationary satellites like weather and GPS satellites) but the geomagnetic storm compressed it by 80% to only 9,600km and the field took four days to recover. Understanding this phenomenon helps satellite operators protect critical communications and navigation infrastructure. ### 🗺️ International Collaborations - At a summit in Tokyo on 16 Jan, **Japanese Prime Minister Takaichi Sanae** and **Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni** [signed an agreement to cooperate](https://asia.nikkei.com/politics/international-relations/japan-s-takaichi-and-italy-s-meloni-to-strike-deal-on-space-junk-removal?ref=japanearthobserver.com) \[Nikkei Asia\] on removing space debris, collaborate on satellite and launch technology, collaborate on supporting the Global South and disaster monitoring and response. The two nations will establish what they are calling a "space consultation framework" with the first formal talks to be held in Japan in June. As part of the summit, the two countries agreed to [upgrade their bilateral relationship](https://asia.nikkei.com/politics/international-relations/japan-s-takaichi-italy-s-meloni-strengthen-strategic-partnership?ref=japanearthobserver.com) to a "special strategic partnership." The Japanese and Italian militaries already have mutual goods and services arrangements, carry out joint exercises, and are working with the UK on a sixth-generation fighter jet. - *Why does this matter?* Both Japan and Italy are keen to develop their domestic space industries. The two space agencies, JAXA and the Italian Space Agency (ASI), already have a "memorandum of cooperation" and both countries are signatories to the U.S.-led Artemis Accords. With the U.S. defunding USAID and closing the [NASA SERVIR program](https://science.nasa.gov/category/missions/servir/?ref=japanearthobserver.com), China is advancing its efforts to use space-led diplomacy to court influence. The Italy-Japan agreement can be seen as both supporting domestic economic development and as filling the vacuum left by the U.S. abandonment of similar diplomatic efforts. - **ispace** is going to [collaborate with **Telespazio** on development of the European Space Agency's Project Moonlight](https://ispace-inc.com/news-en/?p=7886&ref=japanearthobserver.com) \[ispace\]. Telespazio, a joint venture of Leonardo and Thales, is the prime contractor selected by the ESA to develop the Lunar Communications and Navigation Services (LCNS) (aka Project Moonlight), a five-satellite constellation that will provide navigation and communications services from lunar orbit. Just as we have built dense networks of satellites that provide location, navigation, and communications services for the Earth, future exploration of the lunar surface will require similar support infrastructure. ispace has already demonstrated its ability to launch spacecraft into lunar orbit through trips in 2023 and 2025\. This new collaboration will evaluate ispace's lunar transportation capabilities as well as explore models for using the comms and nav services Moonlight will make possible. ![06-ispace-otv-concept.jpeg](https://storage.ghost.io/c/54/e9/54e9159b-1345-41dd-b7dd-180de33edc5b/content/images/2026/02/06-ispace-otv-concept.jpeg) Image of the ispace orbital transfer vehicle (OTV) delivering a satellite to lunar orbit. Credit: ispace - **ispace** is spinning up a [new subsidiary in Saudi Arabia](https://ispace-inc.com/news-en/?p=8377&ref=japanearthobserver.com). This will be ispace's fourth outpost, joining subsidiaries in the EU (Luxembourg) and the U.S. (Denver). ispace had signed a research collaboration MOU with King Fahd University of Petroleum and Minerals (KFUPM). - Congratulations to **Suwa Makoto** for his selection as an astronaut for a likely mission to the ISS in 2027\. Suwa has a degree in Earth science from the University of Tokyo as well as a graduate degree from Princeton and climate science research experience in the U.S. He has also done stints as an overseas volunteer in Rwanda for JICA, at the United Nations World Meteorological Organization (WMO), and the World Bank. In addition to the ISS trip, he also has a shot at a future Artemis mission to the Moon. - JAXA Press Conference [video](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=YblGAEMjXrE&ref=japanearthobserver.com) (Japanese) - NHK [article and video](https://www3.nhk.or.jp/nhkworld/en/news/20260109%5F15/?ref=japanearthobserver.com) (English) ![07-suwa-makoto3.jpg](https://storage.ghost.io/c/54/e9/54e9159b-1345-41dd-b7dd-180de33edc5b/content/images/2026/02/07-suwa-makoto3.jpg) Suwa-san is going to space. Source: JAXA ## 📆 Asia-Pacific Conferences & Events This newsletter is mostly focused on Japan, but I also like to highlight events across the Asia-Pacific region. Some upcoming conferences in 2025 include: **February 2026** - [OSM Mapper's Summit](https://osm.connpass.com/event/380259/?ref=japanearthobserver.com) \- 1 Feb - Osaka, Japan - [Space Summit 2026 @ Singapore Airshow](https://www.singaporeairshow.com/programmes/space-summit-2026-at-singapore-airshow?ref=japanearthobserver.com) \- 7-8 Feb - Singapore - Urban Data Challenge 2025 Final - 21 Feb - University of Tokyo, Meguro,Tokyo - [National Space Science Symposium](https://www.nsss2026.in/?ref=japanearthobserver.com) \- 23 - 27 Feb - Shillong, India - [Spacetide/Keio University Special Workshop “Introduction to the Space Business”](https://prtimes.jp/main/html/rd/p/000000045.000057321.html?ref=japanearthobserver.com) (「宇宙ビジネス入門」特別公開講座) - 22 Feb, 8 Mar, 22 Mar - Keio University Mita Campus, Minato, Tokyo, Japan **March 2026** - [65th JSASS Aviation Engine and Space Propulsion Conference](https://smartconf.jp/content/ap65/?ref=japanearthobserver.com) \- 9 - 11 Mar - Beppu, Oita, Japan - [Convergence India Expo](https://www.convergenceindia.org/?ref=japanearthobserver.com) \- 23 - 25 Mar - New Delhi, India - [Space Technology Conference (STC)](https://www.spacetechnologyconference.com/?ref=japanearthobserver.com) \- 31 Mar - 1 Apr - Tashkent, Uzbekistan - [GEO Connect Asia 2026](https://www.geoconnectasia.com/?ref=japanearthobserver.com) \- 31 Mar - 1 Apr - Singapore - [Committee on Earth Observation Satellites (CEOS) Disaster and Information Services Working Group Meetings](https://ceos.org/meetings/wgdisasters-25-wgiss-61/?ref=japanearthobserver.com) \- 16 - 20 Mar - Dehradun, Uttarakhand,India **April 2026** - [57th Japan Society for Aeronautical and Space Sciences (JSASS) Annual Lectures](https://smartconf.jp/content/57nenkai/?ref=japanearthobserver.com) (日本航空宇宙学会) - 15 - 17 April - Osaka University Toyonaka Campus, Osaka, Japan - [International Conference on Spacecraft Mission Operations (SMOPS)](https://smops.asindia.org/?ref=japanearthobserver.com) \- 8-10 Apr - Bengaluru, India - International Conference on Advances in Aerospace and Energy Systems (IAES-2026) - 16-18 Apr - Mahendragiri, Tamil Nadu, India #### Recent videos - International Space Exploration Symposium - 15 Jan 2026 \[[Japanese](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=GecOMRk7Im8&ref=japanearthobserver.com)\] - Astronaut Yui Kimiya Post-Landing Press Conference - 4 Feb 2026 \[[Japanese](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=2D2cTxW3DKk&ref=japanearthobserver.com)\] # --- If you’ve made it this far, thank you for reading. Please be in touch [via LinkedIn](https://www.linkedin.com/in/rcheetham/?ref=japanearthobserver.com) with any feedback, questions, comments, or requests for future topics. And if you have a friend or colleague that you think would enjoy JEO, please share it! Until next time, Robert --- A winter day on horseback, even my shadow is frozen. – Matsuo Bashō (1644–1694) - translated by me 冬の日や 馬上に氷る 影法師 *Fuyu no hi ya* *bajō ni kōru* *kagebōshi* ### JEO 8 - Japanese Trading Companies and Orbital Real Estate URL: https://www.japanearthobserver.com/jeo-8-japanese-trading-companies-and-orbital-real-estate/ Last updated: 2026-01-12T13:30:31.000Z *Welcome to Japan Earth Observer (JEO), a free monthly newsletter with a news roundup and one in-depth article about the space, Earth observation and geospatial industries in Japan. In addition to a news roundup, in this edition I’m also going to write a bit about some of *Japan’s trading companies and their investments in the next generation of commercial orbital real estate*.* ## News & Announcements ### 💱 Contracts and Funding - **Astroscale UK** signed a [contract to provide its next generation docking plates to Xona](https://news.satnews.com/2025/08/10/xona-pulsar-satellites-to-leverage-astroscale-tech-for-resilient-responsible-navigation/?ref=japanearthobserver.com) \[SatNews\], developer of navigation satellite constellation for low Earth orbit (LEO) - **Astroscale** has been [awarded a patent for its innovative active debris removal architecture](https://news.satnews.com/2025/08/07/astroscales-new-patent-transforms-space-debris-removal?ref=japanearthobserver.com) \[SatNews\]. U.S. Patent No. 12,234,043 B2 covers Astroscale’s new approach to debris removal which can cost effectively, flexibly, and safely deorbit multiple large objects. Under this approach, a “servicer” vehicle approaches a debris object, attaches to it, moves it to a lower orbit, transfers it to a “shepherd” vehicle, separates, and proceeds to another object. The shepherd vehicle either remains docked as it guides the object through reentry, or can perform a reentry insertion and then return to orbit for another object. - *Why does this matter?* Patents represent a short-term monopoly during which time a firm can leverage the technology to build competitive advantage. If another firm wants to use Astroscale’s approach, they will have partner or license the technology from them. ![astroscale-patent-rendering.jpg](https://storage.ghost.io/c/54/e9/54e9159b-1345-41dd-b7dd-180de33edc5b/content/images/2026/01/astroscale-patent-rendering.jpg) Rendering of Astroscale servicer and shepherd spacecraft removing debris. Credit: Astroscale - **Mitsubishi Electric** has been [awarded funding](https://www.mitsubishielectric.com/en/pr/2025/0821/?ref=japanearthobserver.com) from the [JAXA Space Strategy Fund](https://www.japanearthobserver.com/jeo-3-japans-space-strategy-fund/#japans-space-strategy-fund-space-industrial-policy-at-scale) to develop domestic technology and a supply chain for radiation resistant solar cells, panels, and cover glass for future satellite solar arrays. - *Why does this matter?* Satellite solar panels present engineering challenges not faced in terrestrial applications. They need to combine low weight, high photovoltaic energy conversion efficiency, and radiation resistance. The photovoltaic efficiency tends to decline due to damage from effects of space radiation, so resistance to degradation can have a big impact on the longevity of a satellite. **PXP Corp**, a firm that specializes in innovative photovoltaic materials such as perovskite and copper indium gallium selenide (CIGS), will be a key partner on the R&D effort. The six year project will research the feasibility of tandem perovskite/CIGS solar cells as well as develop radiation resistant cover glass. - **ICEYE Japan**, the local subsidiary of Finnish ICEYE, has [appointed Tsukahara Yasuhiro as its new CEO](https://payloadspace.com/iceye-expands-its-japanese-presence-with-new-ceo/?ref=japanearthobserver.com). Tsukahara was previously the COO of [**Japan Space Imaging (JSI)**](https://www.jsicorp.jp/?ref=japanearthobserver.com) (日本スペースイメージング) and almost 30 years at **Mitsubishi Corp**. THE CEO role is a new one for the Finnish firm's Japan outpost. The previous head of the unit was the General Manager, Higashi Makoto (the former CEO of JSI). - *Why does this matter?* ICEYE's business in Japan has been growing for several years and it likely has its chill eye on getting a piece of the [Japan Space Strategy Fund](https://www.japanearthobserver.com/jeo-3-japans-space-strategy-fund/#japans-space-strategy-fund-space-industrial-policy-at-scale) action. Most recently ICEYE has teamed up with IHI to build a new 24-satellite SAR constellation in Japan, and they are already planning a domestic manufacturing facility to build it. It’s not clear to me that Japan needs a third domestic SAR constellation (the other two are **iQPS** and **Synspective**), but maybe there’s more demand than I think, and I suppose someone’s going to get paid to build and launch those satellites, so that’s probably good, right? - **SkyPerfect JSAT** (スカパーJSAT) [plans to triple its capital expenditures over the next three years](https://news.satnews.com/2025/09/04/forresters-digest-skyperfect-jsat-plans-major-expansion/?ref=japanearthobserver.com) \[SatNews\]. It's already invested about $489 million over the past three years, but plans to invest JPY 100 billion (\~US $689 million) annually in 2025, 2026, and 2027\. This includes investments upgrading its legacy direct-to-home satellite broadcast services, [buying a Pelican constellation from Planet Labs](https://www.space.com/space-exploration/satellites/earth-observing-company-planet-signs-usd230-million-deal-for-fleet-of-new-pelican-satellites?ref=japanearthobserver.com), investing in Space Compass (a joint venture with NTT to build a GEO orbit optical data relay service in collaboration with iQPS, AxelSpace, and Synspective), and potentially making a contribution to the European IRIS2 constellation. JSAT will also be repositioning a satellite and is planning to launch three new ones in order to increase broadband access. - First, in-flight WiFi provider, SES S.A. has [signed an agreement to access the full Ku-band capacity of JSAT's Superbird-C2](https://news.satnews.com/2025/11/04/sky-perfect-jsat-to-provide-full-ku-band-capacity-of-the-superbird-c2-satellite-to-ses/?ref=japanearthobserver.com) in order to improve in-flight access over Asia. Superbird-C2 currently orbits at 144°E but will be repositioned to meet SES's needs. Demand for in-flight internet is increasing sharply as passenger numbers and expectations increase. - Second, JSAT is [planning to launch three new broadband communications satellites on SpaceX rockets in 2027 and 2028](https://asia.nikkei.com/business/telecommunication/sky-perfect-jsat-to-launch-new-satellites-helping-to-improve-onboard-wi-fi?ref=japanearthobserver.com) in order to increase in-flight, maritime, defense, and disaster broadband capacity. Two of the birds will be so-called "flexible" satellites that will orbit in geostationary (GEO) orbit at 36,000 km and are capable of adjusting their coverage area, bandwidth, and communications frequency as needs change. - *Why does this matter?* JSAT's legacy pay TV subscriber numbers continue to decline, so it has been moving aggressively to expand into Earth observation, satellite broadband, and other sectors. Its fiercest competitor will likely be SpaceX Starlink, which is already in use by the Japanese Coast Guard and Maritime Self-Defense Force and also has inked partnership agreements to provide satellite mobile phone services for customers of Japan's three largest mobile carriers: NTT Docomo, Softbank, and KDDI. The number four mobile carrier, Rakuten Mobile, will use AST SpaceMobile. Both Starlink and AST rely on constellations in low Earth orbit (LEO), where network latency is far lower than JSAT's GEO orbits. JSAT will have to run hard if it's going to go toe-to-toe with Starlink and AST. - Lunar mission startup **ispace** and Indian space situational awareness (SSA) firm, **Diganterra**, have [signed an agreement to collaborate on tracking objects in cislunar orbit](https://payloadspace.com/ispace-digantara-join-forces-on-cislunar-ssa/?ref=japanearthobserver.com). There a are a lot of lunar missions planned over the next few years. The moon is a lot smaller than the Earth, and its orbits are likely to become crowded more easily than the Earth orbits (which are already crowded). The two firms are anticipating future problems and planning ahead to build long-term safety and deconfliction infrastructure. - *Why does this matter?* This new commercial partnership comes in the wake of the formalization of the **JAXA-ISRO** partnership to build and launch the Lunar Polar Exploration (LUPEX) mission in 2028 to search for lunar water. LUPEX has been under development for a while, but there has been a flurry of commercial and government partnership announcements this summer between Japan and India as well as Japan and Europe (see RAMSES mission to asteroid Apophis, below). With many NASA and NOAA earth science and planetary exploration missions under threat from the White House, I think this is more evidence of a rapid adjustment of priorities toward weaving collaborations with more reliable partners. - **ArkEdge Space** has won a [contract to test the new, high precision QZSS positioning signals](https://www.gpsworld.com/arkedge-space-selected-for-qzss-utilization-demonstration-project/?ref=japanearthobserver.com) \[GPS World\] on a network of next-generation Asia-Pacific tide monitoring buoys. ArkEdge Space designs, manufactures, and operates micro-satellites that can support IoT and maritime communications technology such as VHF Data Exchange System (VDES). - *Why does this matter?* The QZSS satellite constellation augments the U.S. GPS navigation and positioning system in the Asia-Pacific region. The latest QZSS satellites support a new L6 signal called Multi-GNSS Advanced Orbit and Clock Augmentation for Precise Point Positioning (“MADOCA-PPP”). This new signal provides real-time, high-precision position augmentation - in other words, it enables receivers to have a much better measurement of exactly where they are. Starting in November 2025, the new buoys will measure and transmit real-time sea level data from across the Asia-Pacific. Real-time data on sea level will enable improved tsunami and storm surge monitoring. The [Japanese QZSS constellation](https://www.japanearthobserver.com/japan-earth-observer-2-the-curious-orbits-of-qzss/#the-qzss-a-gps-for-japan-but-better) is already a generation ahead of the U.S. GPS constellation - which has been slow to modernize - and everyone in the Asia-Pacific benefits from this. The newest batch of QZSS satellites improves on this positioning augmentation and messaging services for disaster and other emergency scenarios. - **IHI Corporation** is [partnering with British infrared satellite firm, SatVu](https://payloadspace.com/satvu-ihi-partner-on-thermal-mapping-constellation/?ref=japanearthobserver.com), to explore designing, building, and operating a high resolution thermal infrared satellite constellation. It's not a done deal yet, but if it moves forward, the satellites will likely be manufactured in Japan and will aim to support both national security and commercial applications. - IHI (formerly Ishikawajima-Harima Heavy Industries 石川島播磨重工業) is a big industrial conglomerate of almost 30,000 employees with history stretching back to 1853\. IHI built Japan's first steam-powered warship in 1866, the first jet engine in 1945, the Epsilon rocket used for sub-orbital research missions, and a range of other accomplishments. IHI's Aero Engine, Space & Defense group has been on a tear lately. IHI signed a similar agreement with ICEYE in May for a 24-satellite SAR constellation, and it also [inked a deal with Surrey Satellite Technology (SSTI) just two days later](https://www.sstl.co.uk/media-hub/latest-news/2025/sstl-and-ihi-sign-agreement-to-collaborate-on-japanese-isr-constellation?ref=japanearthobserver.com). The SSTI deal will cover a range of Earth observation modes: optical, hyperspectral, radio frequency (RF), VDES, and infrared (IR). If all of these constellations move forward, IHI will become a one-stop-shop for intelligence, surveillance and reconnaissance (ISR) applications in Japan. - *Why does this matter?* The SatVu and SSTI tie-ups are both being presented under the aegis of the Hiroshima Accord signed in 2023 between the UK and Japan to strengthen space and defense ties. But I think they provide further evidence of a broad push by several countries to build "sovereign" (domestically manufactured, operated and controlled) Earth observation and other national security capabilities in the wake of the perceived weakening of U.S. commitments to mutual defense, not to mention aggressive tariffs being assessed against allies. - **Astroscale** has signed a [launch agreement with NewSpace India Limited (NSIL) to launch the ISSA-J1 spacecraft](https://www.astroscale.com/en/news/astroscale-signs-launch-agreement-with-newspace-india-limited-for-satellite?ref=japanearthobserver.com) to approach, diagnose, and inspect two large satellite debris objects in orbit. Astroscale is building this debris inspection spacecraft using a Small Business Innovation Research (SBIR) grant from the Japanese government. Astroscale reviewed ten potential launch providers before settling on NSIL and the Polar Satellite Launch Vehicle (PSLV) for a dedicated launch from the Satish Dhawan Space Center in Spring 2027\. The PSLV has had 60 successful launches and tends to be lower cost than other dedicated launch vehicles. In addition to the NSIL agreement, Astroscale has also recently signed MOUs with Indian firms Bellatrix and Digantara. - *Why does this matter?* I think we can read this as part of an increased cadence of collaborative efforts between Japan and India in the wake of tariffs, insults, and other behavior from the United States. - **Rocket Lab** has recently racked up a pile of launch contracts with Japanese entities: - **Synspective** has signed a [new contract with Rocket Lab for ten more dedicated launches of its StriX SAR satellites on the Electron rocket](https://synspective.com/press-release/2025/rocketlab%5Fadditonal10/?ref=japanearthobserver.com) \[Synspective\], bringing the total to 21\. Rocket Lab has already launched six StriX satellites and five more are queued up. Synspective has not outlined the schedule for the additional ten launches, but a key advantage of working with Rocket Lab is its track record for a flexible, reliable, and timely launch schedule. In addition, the Strix satellites have a particularly wide frame, which spurred Rocket Lab to build a custom "arrowhead" payload fairing to accommodate it. - Not to be outdone, **iQPS** also [signed a contract with Rocket Lab for three more dedicated launches of its QPS-SAR satellites starting in 2026](https://rocketlabcorp.com/updates/rocket-lab-secures-latest-multi-launch-contract-with-iqps-for-three-dedicated-electron-missions/?ref=japanearthobserver.com) \[Rocket Lab\]. Electron rockets have already launched four iQPS satellites this year: QPS-SAR-9 to QPS-SAR-12 and another one is planned for November. - And finally, **JAXA** bought [two Electron launches for science and research payloads](https://rocketlabcorp.com/updates/rocket-lab-secures-multiple-launches-with-japan-aerospace-exploration-agency-jaxa/?ref=japanearthobserver.com) \[Rocket Lab\] that would have normally launched on the domestic Epsilon-S rocket. But that system has had two test failures over the past two years, setting back development. - Japanese lunar exploration firm, **ispace**, has raised a pile [more cash through an equity offering](https://payloadspace.com/ispace-is-raising-money-to-cover-growing-losses/?ref=japanearthobserver.com) \[Payload\] in order to get back to the moon and have another shot at a successful landing. While it has a pretty good contract backlog and revenue is growing, it's burning through cash at a prodigious rate, clocking a net loss of ￥2.88 billion (\~US $19.2 million) in the most recent quarter, double the losses over the same period last year. - *Why does this matter?* The new cash from the equity sale should enable ispace to launch Mission 3 and and Mission 4 in 2027 and 2028 as well as cover operating costs in the meantime. The firm will sell 49 million new shares, of which 19.2 million will be a public offering and the remaining 30 million will be bought by Japanese institutional investors. With only 106 million shares outstanding at the beginning of October, another 49 million shares seems like a big dilution, and the share price fell to 475 yen after the deal closed on 21 Oct. ![ispace-stock-chart-jan11.png](https://storage.ghost.io/c/54/e9/54e9159b-1345-41dd-b7dd-180de33edc5b/content/images/2026/01/ispace-stock-chart-jan11.png) The ispace stock price over the past year; the big drop in June was after the June HAKUTO-2 crash. ### 🛰️ Technology and Infrastructure - The **Hokkaido Spaceport** and its operator **Space Cotan** are working with **Firefly Aerospace** to [evaluate Hokkaido as a potential launch site](https://www.asahi.com/ajw/articles/15971354?ref=japanearthobserver.com) \[Asahi Shimbun\] for its Alpha rocket. In addition to JAXA’s launch pads at Uchinoura and Tanegashima, several other spaceports are operating or under active development. TiSpace launched the first foreign rocket from Hokkaido in July, Sierra Space is planning to land space planes in Oita starting in 2027, and Space One is launching from Spaceport Kii near Kushimoto, Wakayama. - **NTT Data**, **NTT InfraNet**, **SoftBank**, **Tokyo Gas Network**, **TEPCO Power Grid**, and **Earthbrain** have developed a [geospatial technology system to rapidly gather and integrate data about underground infrastructure](https://asia.nikkei.com/business/construction/ntt-data-others-create-tech-to-find-aging-buried-infrastructure?ref=japanearthobserver.com). - *Why does this matter?* Much of Japan's critical infrastructure was built out during its rapid economic development and urbanization following WW II. Significant portions of underground infrastructure have already exceeded planned lifetimes, and a mix of labor shortages and supply costs have extended replacement timelines to 100 years or more. Further, electricity, gas, water, and telecommunications are interwoven, making them complex to disentangle. The new approach organizes the data into a new 3D cubic format, called "spatial ID", that allows the spatial relationship of each infrastructure component to be visualized and managed. - **EdgeCortix**, a Japanese semiconductor startup, is [designing new AI chips for satellites, robots, personal devices](https://asia.nikkei.com/business/technology/japanese-startup-brings-ai-chips-to-space-in-bid-to-rival-nvidia?ref=japanearthobserver.com) \[Nikkei Asia\], and other "edge" computing environments with stringent power usage requirements. NVIDIA is the big gorilla amongst AI chip makers, but their chips, while extremely capable, are expensive and consume a lot of power. Contemporary satellites are already being designed with on-board AI processors in order to reduce data transmission delays and energy consumption, and EdgeCortix wants to capture part of the nascent market. EdgeCortix's first mass-produced AI chip, Sakura-II, uses only 25% of the energy of the equivalent NVIDIA chip by minimizing expensive memory access operations during data processing. They already [have an agreement with lunar lander startup](https://www.edgecortix.com/en/press-releases/ispace-and-edgecortix-agree-to-collaborate-on-latest-ai-enabled-lunar-missions?ref=japanearthobserver.com), **ispace**, and they just landed a contract with the U.S. Defense Innovation Unit (DIU). - *Why does this matter?* The DIU contract seems like a big deal; it's the first ever by a Japanese semiconductor firm. NVIDIA's sky-high revenue and profit growth can't possibly continue indefinitely, and I expect there will be a lot of innovative startups trying to figure out how to undercut NVIDIA on different combinations of price/performance and thereby capture part of their market. Will EdgeCortix be an example of Clayton Christiansen's innovator's dilemma for NVIDIA? They've raised $100 million in funding to figure it out. - **ElevationSpace** and **ispace** are going to [collaborate on an attempt to return lunar samples](https://payloadspace.com/ispace-and-elevationspace-plan-to-bring-back-moon-rocks-for-japan/?ref=japanearthobserver.com) \[Payload\]. ispace would develop the orbital transfer vehicle (OTV) and sample collection lander while ElevationSpace would leverage its experience building reentry capsules. If successful, it would be the first lunar sample return mission by Japan. - **Honda** and Astrobotic are [partnering to develop an integrated energy system](https://payloadspace.com/astrobotic-and-honda-join-forces-on-a-lunar-power-system/?ref=japanearthobserver.com) \[Payload\] to support a future lunar base. Astrobotic is building a LunaGrid power system and a vertical solar array technology (VSAT) in 10kW and 50kW configurations. However, to provide power through the long lunar night, it will need a storage system. Honda has developed a regenerative power cell that uses electricity to generate and store hydrogen from water. When the solar cells lack sunlight, the hydrogen is then used to generate electricity, creating water for the next cycle. The two companies will test their technology in a one-year simulation of solar illumination conditions for various potential locations on the lunar south pole and to optimize the solar array generation capacity against the fuel cell size. The testing will be carried out in the United States, but it is part of Honda's R&D initiative to extend its terrestrial products to space applications including its recent test launch of a prototype reusable rocket. ![honda-astrobotic-fuel-cell-concept.png](https://storage.ghost.io/c/54/e9/54e9159b-1345-41dd-b7dd-180de33edc5b/content/images/2026/01/honda-astrobotic-fuel-cell-concept.png) Artist rendering of Honda and Astrobotic fuel cell concept. Credit: Honda - A team that includes Japanese firm **Warpspace**, the University of South Australia, and Adelaide-based RapidBeam will collaborate on [development of a prototype next-generation optical satellite communications system](https://www.unisa.edu.au/media-centre/Releases/2025/australia-and-japan-team-up-to-fast-track-laser-satellite-communications/?ref=japanearthobserver.com). The system will be tested on the Australasian Optical Ground Station Network, a consortium led by the university. Warpspace's multiprotocol optical modem, HOCSAI, will be used to test space-to-ground optical (laser) communications. RapidBeam is a resident startup at the university and is developing an advanced ground station network. This is one of several recent announcements about both ground-to-orbit and inter-satellite optical communications initiatives. - *Why does this matter?* With more satellites in orbit and Earth observations satellites, in particular, having greater resolution and capturing broader swaths of spectrum, there is a substantial need to increase orbit-to-ground bandwidth. This is driving both a proliferation of ground stations and a need to expand beyond radio communications to optical transmission. However, while supporting much higher bandwidth, optical transmissions require much greater precision and can be attenuated by clouds, fog, and other atmospheric conditions. - Astroscale and Australia's HEO have [signed a three-year deal to extend their collaboration on space domain awareness to higher orbits](https://news.satnews.com/2025/09/30/astroscale-heo-advance-space-monitoring-capabilities-for-allied-nations/?ref=japanearthobserver.com) \[SatNews\]. Astroscale develops orbital servicing and debris removal services, and HEO builds and operates cameras that find and monitor objects in orbit, a capability known as space domain awareness (SDA). The two firms are working together to find and characterize orbital objects, develop catalogs of candidate debris clients, and then model how to safely service or de-orbit the debris. The new agreement will extend their existing collaboration on low Earth orbit objects (LEO) to objects in geostationary transfer orbit (GTO) and geostationary Earth orbit (GEO). In addition to the HEO tie-up, Astroscale also has a [related three-year contract to develop demonstration technology for the Japan Ministry of Defense (JMoD)](https://www.astroscale.com/en/news/astroscale-japan-secures-contract-with-japanese-ministry-of-defense-to-develop-a-responsive-space-system-demonstration-satellite-prototype?ref=japanearthobserver.com). - *Why does this matter?* As the orbits become more crowded, debris removal is becoming a critical element of space sustainability. I like the metaphor that Astroscale is using: this is much like how traffic cameras (HEO's technology) and roadside assistance (Astroscale's specialty) help to keep highways clear and safe. - **Astroscale** has [wrapped a test campaign at NASA Goddard Space Flight Center](https://etd.gsfc.nasa.gov/partnerships/partnership-examples/astroscale-us-partnership-test-campaign/?ref=japanearthobserver.com) \[NASA\] in October. Goddard operates a Servicing Technology Center test facility that enables spacecraft operators to simulate orbital environments by attaching the spacecraft into a robotic motion platform that has a full 6 degrees of freedom. Astroscale's U.S. subsidiary worked with NASA to test various rendezvous and proximity operations (RPO) scenarios that will be necessary to carry out the APS-R mission, a first-of-its-kind hydrazine refueling operation contract awarded by the U.S. Space Force. ![astroscale-nasa-rpo-robotic-motion-platform-at-nasa-stc.jpg](https://storage.ghost.io/c/54/e9/54e9159b-1345-41dd-b7dd-180de33edc5b/content/images/2026/01/astroscale-nasa-rpo-robotic-motion-platform-at-nasa-stc.jpg) Robotic motion platforms for simulating RPO scenarios at the Servicing Technology Center (STC). Credit: NASA Goddard - A research team led by professor Kunii Yasuharu at **Chuo University** has developed a [small prototype robot, called RED](https://asia.nikkei.com/business/science/japanese-ai-robot-swarms-to-scout-sites-for-underground-moon-bases?ref=japanearthobserver.com) \[Nikkei Asia\], that can use AI to operate autonomously as a collaborative group in order to explore harsh environments, such as the lunar surface. Working with **Takenaka Engineering** and a reinforcement learning AI research team led by Kawashima Hiroaki at **Hyogo University**, the team recently put the RED robot swarm through its paces at the **JAXA** test facility in Sagamihara. ![lunar-cave-robot-group-red-credit-kuroda-mana.png](https://storage.ghost.io/c/54/e9/54e9159b-1345-41dd-b7dd-180de33edc5b/content/images/2026/01/lunar-cave-robot-group-red-credit-kuroda-mana.png) A group of RED robots test collision avoidance. Credit: Kuroda Mann - One of those Rocket Lab Electrons mentioned above [successfully placed the **Synspective** Strix-7 SAR satellite](https://www.space.com/space-exploration/launches-spacecraft/rocket-lab-launch-owl-new-world-synspective-satellite?ref=japanearthobserver.com) \[Space.com\] in LEO (583 km) on 14 October. You might be wondering why they are called “Strix”. Strix is a genus of owls. Playing off this nomenclature, all of Rocket Lab’s launch missions for Synspective involve a play on “Owl”: "The Owl's Night Begins," "The Owl's Night Continues," "The Owl Spreads Its Wings," "Owl Night Long," "Owl For One, One For Owl," "Owl The Way Up" and now "Owl New World." While the 7th SAR satellite, this is the first of Synspective’s 3rd generation of its spacecraft, and is supposed to improve performance and reliability. - And another Electron rocket [launched an **iQPS** SAR-14 satellite to a circular LEO (575km) orbit on 6 November](https://www.space.com/space-exploration/launches-spacecraft/rocket-lab-electron-launch-iqps-radar-satellite-nation-god-navigates?ref=japanearthobserver.com) (NZ time) \[[Space.com](http://space.com/?ref=japanearthobserver.com)\]. While labeled QPS-SAR-14, it’s actually the 13th iQPS (for some reason, their numbering scheme skipped from 12 to 14; superstition?). Having lost a couple in a failed launch in 2022 and three others that are no longer active, this brings their active constellation to 8 satellites on their way to a 36-satellite constellation. iQPS names its satellites after Shintō gods that appear in the earliest Japanese histories, the [Kojiki](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Kojiki?ref=japanearthobserver.com) (古事記) and the [Nihon Shoki (日本書紀)](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Nihon%5FShoki?ref=japanearthobserver.com). This newest satellite is known as Yachihoko-I. - Thus far, the iQPS satellite names have included: Amateru (天照神), Izanami (イザナミ or 伊弉冉尊), Izanagi (イザナギ or 伊邪那岐), Tsukuyomi (ツクヨミ or 月読), Susanoo (スサノヲ), Wadatsumi (海神 or 綿津見), Yamatsumi (大山津見神 or 大山祇神), Kushinada (くしなだひめ or 櫛名田比売), and now Yachihoko. (There was also a pathfinder satellite, called Tsukushi (筑紫島), an old name for the island of Kyushu where iQPS is based.). Yachihoko-no-Kami (八千矛神 or 八千戈神, lit. "God of Eight Thousand Spears") is a name used in the Kojiki by the Shintō god Ōkuninushi (オオクニヌシ or 大国主), the head of the Kunitsukami (国つ神 or 国津神), the gods who govern the earth, nation-building, and agriculture, among other domains, and live in the earth (tsuchi). Many of the [myths](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Japanese%5Fmythology?ref=japanearthobserver.com) told in the Kojiki and the Nihon Shoki are about the various rows between the Kunitsukami and the Amatsukami (天津神, 天つ神) or gods of heaven. - Yachihoko (or Ōkuninushi) is the god of nation-building. Rocket Lab has also named each of the iQPS missions based on the appropriate god, so this launch was called "The Nation God Navigates". Others have included: "The Lightning God Reigns", "The Sea God Sees", "The Mountain God Guards", "The Harvest Goddess Thrives". ### 🔭 Science - The **National Institute of Information and Communications Technology** (NICT 情報通信研究機構) has been awarded an R&D project to funded by the Japan Space Strategy Fund to develop and test quantum encryption key distribution (量子暗号鍵配布) to secure communication between satellites and ground stations. NICT aims to develop a small satellite that could be launched to low Earth orbit (LEO) in order to test quantum cryptographic technologies. [NICT will collaborate with **SkyPerfect JSAT**](https://en.skyperfectjsat.space/en/news/20250820%5F1?ref=japanearthobserver.com) (スカパーJSAT) on design and planning of the satellite control system. This is an extension of research work [NICT has been leading to develop production-ready quantum encryption technology](https://thequantuminsider.com/2024/10/08/japan-to-invest-in-quantum-encryption-development-by-2030-to-counter-cybersecurity-threats/?ref=japanearthobserver.com) by 2030. - A **Tohoku University** researcher, Takahashi Kazunori, has developed [an innovative approach to clearing debris](https://www.space.com/technology/new-space-junk-removal-idea-using-ion-engine-exhaust-to-knock-debris-out-of-the-sky?ref=japanearthobserver.com) \[Space.com\] without the risk of creating additional debris in the process; there is no need to make contact with the debris. - *Why does this matter?* With both 10,000s of new satellites and more than 14,000 pieces of junk in low Earth orbit (LEO) ranging in size from bolts to rocket fairings, orbital debris is a rapidly growing problem. Startups like **Astroscale** are developing spacecraft equipped with docking plates and grappling arms in order to deorbit the largest pieces, but this won't address the vast majority of debris, which is small, tumbling, and moving at very high speed. Takahashi’s idea is to use a pair of ionized plasma engines (powered with argon or xenon) that push against each other in the opposite direction. The equal force from paired engines will cancel each other out (so the debris-clearing satellite will remain stable), but when one of the engines is directed at debris, it will gradually nudge it toward a deorbit trajectory. It's sort of like using an electric fan or a leaf blower to sweep your sidewalk. Pretty cool, right? The growing amount of space debris requires urgent solutions, and this is a creative one. ![dual-plasma-engine-debris-clearance.jpg](https://storage.ghost.io/c/54/e9/54e9159b-1345-41dd-b7dd-180de33edc5b/content/images/2026/01/dual-plasma-engine-debris-clearance.jpg) Diagram of the bi-directional plasma thruster concept for deorbiting space debris. Credit: Tohoku University - The plucky **Hayabusa2** asteroid probe survived a fraught trip to asteroid Ryugu in 2018 and then sent back samples to Earth in 2020\. The probe still had fuel left, though, so JAXA planned an extended mission that would take Hayabusa2, first to flyby asteroid 2001 CC21 and then to continue its journey and rendezvous with a much smaller asteroid, 1986 KY26, in 2031\. However, [new observations from the European Southern Observatory's Very Large Telescope (ESO VLT)](https://phys.org/news/2025-09-hayabusa2-reveals-space-mission-asteroid.html?ref=japanearthobserver.com) \[Phys.org\] suggest that 1986 KY26 is only one-third the size and is spinning much faster than expected. And by "smaller" and "faster", it is really small, only 11m in diameter, and much faster, spinning every 5.35 minutes. - *Why does this matter?* This observation is going to make Hayabusa2's rendezvous interesting (we know very little about such small objects) and challenging. ![can-hayabusa2-touchdown.jpg](https://storage.ghost.io/c/54/e9/54e9159b-1345-41dd-b7dd-180de33edc5b/content/images/2026/01/can-hayabusa2-touchdown.jpg) Artist's impression of Hayabusa2 mission touching down on the surface of the asteroid 1998 KY26\. Credit: ESO/M. Kornmesser - The **Akatsuki** (あかつき, 暁, "Dawn") [probe to Venus has officially been declared ended](https://cosmos.isas.jaxa.jp/our-last-presence-at-venus-has-gone-silent/?ref=japanearthobserver.com) \[JAXA\]. Akatsuki was sent to Venus (金星) in May 2010, but its main thruster failed the planned orbital insertion in December 2010\. However, in 2015 JAXA was able to use its attitude thrusters to move it into a highly elliptical orbit around Venus and start its original science mission to study the climate and atmosphere. - *Why does this matter?* Akatsuki's planned lifespan was only 4.5 years, and that much time had already elapsed when it entered orbit around Venus. However, all of its instruments were functioning, so JAXA laid out a two year observation plan. But it kept on functioning until April 2024, when JAXA lost contact. This was humanity’s only active mission to Venus, and recovery operations continued over the past year, but the mission was formally ended 18 Sept 2025\. The $300 million mission has produced [178 scientific papers and counting](https://akatsuki.isas.jaxa.jp/en/papers/?ref=japanearthobserver.com). You can re-live Akatsuki’s exploits at its [Twitter/X account](https://x.com/Akatsuki%5FJAXA?ref=japanearthobserver.com). ![akatsuki-venus-orbit-ikeshita-akihiro.jpg](https://storage.ghost.io/c/54/e9/54e9159b-1345-41dd-b7dd-180de33edc5b/content/images/2026/01/akatsuki-venus-orbit-ikeshita-akihiro.jpg) Artist's impression of Akatsuki orbiting Venus. Credit: JAXA ### 🗺️ International Collaborations - **JAXA** is planning to join the **ESA** [Ramses mission to the Apophis asteroid](https://english.kyodonews.net/articles/-/59546?ref=japanearthobserver.com) \[Kyodo News\] planned for launch in April 2028 for rendezvous in April 2029, when it will pass within 32,000 km of the Earth. Apophis has attracted global interest from both scientific and planetary defense perspectives. If the 375m object collided with the Earth, it would be catastrophic. While there is no chance that it will collide with Earth on this transit, space agencies are keen to observe what will be the nearest approach of such a large object in observational history. Japan tentatively plans to provide solar panels and cameras as well as launch services on an H3 rocket. It will launch alongside JAXA’s own Destiny+ asteroid probe as it flies by Apophis on its way to a different asteroid. JAXA and ESA are already collaborating on Hera, another planetary defense mission to re-visit asteroid Dimorphos to investigate the NASA DART probe's impactor effects. - In order for the Ramses mission to proceed, both ESA and JAXA need to have funding approved later this year, but this seems like another quiet effort by Japan to weave stronger ties with Europe, India, and other partners in the wake of abrupt changes in budget priorities imposed on NASA since the beginning of 2025. - *Why does this matter?* NASA had planned to re-purpose its OSIRIS-Rex solar probe to also visit Apophis just after its Earth rendezvous in order to observe changes from the Earth transit, but the Trump administration has indicated they plan to cancel the mission, despite the fact that OSIRIS-Rex is already in space on a compatible trajectory following the end of its solar observation mission. China has also [recently announced plans for an Apophis mission](https://spacenews.com/china-proposes-flyby-mission-to-asteroid-apophis-during-2029-earth-encounter/??ref=japanearthobserver.com) \[SpaceNews\]. ![esa-ramses-mission-apophis-mockup.jpg](https://storage.ghost.io/c/54/e9/54e9159b-1345-41dd-b7dd-180de33edc5b/content/images/2026/01/esa-ramses-mission-apophis-mockup.jpg) Artist mockup of Ramses probe as the Apophis asteroid approaches Earth in 2029\. Credit: ESA ## 📆 Asia-Pacific Conferences & Events This newsletter is mostly focused on Japan, but I also like to highlight events across the Asia-Pacific region. Some upcoming conferences in 2025 include: **Jan 2026** - [APACE 2026](https://www.spaceagenda.com/event/apace-2026/?ref=japanearthobserver.com) \- 27 - 29 Jan - Sarawak, Malaysia - [FOSS4G Asia 2026](https://foss4g.asia/2026/?ref=japanearthobserver.com) \- 21 - 25 Jan - Nashik, India - [State of the Map India](https://foss4g.asia/2026/?ref=japanearthobserver.com) \- 24 Jan - Nashik, India - [Asia-Pacific Airshow & Exhibition (APACE)](https://www.aerospaceapac.com/?ref=japanearthobserver.com) \- 27-29 Jan - Sarawak, Malaysia - [International Space Industry Exhibition (ISIEX)](https://www.spaceagenda.com/event/international-space-industry-exhibition-isiex-2026/?ref=japanearthobserver.com) \- 28 - 30 Jan - Tokyo, Japan **February 2026** - [OSM Mapper's Summit](https://osm.connpass.com/event/380259/?ref=japanearthobserver.com) \- 1 Feb - Osaka, Japan - [Space Summit 2026 @ Singapore Airshow](https://www.singaporeairshow.com/programmes/space-summit-2026-at-singapore-airshow?ref=japanearthobserver.com) \- 7-8 Feb - Singapore - [National Space Science Symposium](https://www.nsss2026.in/?ref=japanearthobserver.com) \- 23 - 27 Feb - Shillong, India - [Spacetide/Keio University Special Workshop “Introduction to the Space Business”](https://prtimes.jp/main/html/rd/p/000000045.000057321.html?ref=japanearthobserver.com) (「宇宙ビジネス入門」特別公開講座) - 22 Feb, 8 Mar, 22 Mar - Keio University Mita Campus, Minato, Tokyo, Japan **March 2026** - [65th JSASS Aviation Engine and Space Propulsion Conference](https://smartconf.jp/content/ap65/?ref=japanearthobserver.com) \- 9 - 11 Mar - Beppu, Oita, Japan - [Convergence India Expo](https://www.convergenceindia.org/?ref=japanearthobserver.com) \- 23 - 25 Mar - New Delhi, India - [Space Technology Conference (STC)](https://www.spacetechnologyconference.com/?ref=japanearthobserver.com) \- 31 Mar - 1 Apr - Tashkent, Uzbekistan - [GEO Connect Asia 2026](https://www.geoconnectasia.com/?ref=japanearthobserver.com) \- 31 Mar - 1 Apr - Singapore - [Committee on Earth Observation Satellites (CEOS) Disaster and Information Services Working Group Meetings](https://ceos.org/meetings/wgdisasters-25-wgiss-61/?ref=japanearthobserver.com) \- 16 - 20 Mar - Dehradun, Uttarakhand,India #### Other recent videos - JAXA 13th Exploration R&D funding solicitation briefing - [https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=CgSPjB\_bTXk](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=CgSPjB%5FbTXk&ref=japanearthobserver.com) - JAXA Astronaut Onishi Return Press Conference - [https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7MVKGW9khSs](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7MVKGW9khSs&ref=japanearthobserver.com) - JAXA Symposium 2025 “Beyond the Moon to an Infinite Universe” - [https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=EgKRbB7Vhvo](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=EgKRbB7Vhvo&ref=japanearthobserver.com) - FOSS4G Japan 2025 - 12 Oct 2025 - Core Day - Room A - [https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=kV6BV7BlLuM](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=kV6BV7BlLuM&ref=japanearthobserver.com) - Core Day - Room B - [https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=45wB5wvbtAs](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=45wB5wvbtAs&ref=japanearthobserver.com) - Core Day - Room C - [https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=uQHuziqXF5Q](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=uQHuziqXF5Q&ref=japanearthobserver.com) - Spacetide and Keio University Graduate School of System Design and Management will hold a workshop, ["An Introduction to the Space Business"](https://prtimes.jp/main/html/rd/p/000000045.000057321.html?ref=japanearthobserver.com), at Keio University's Mita Campus in Feb and March 2026\. The workshop, which will be free and include both on-line and in-person components, will be limited to 50 attendees. [Applications](https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLScqwMi-v0Tiud57HSF3lbuxcgU-SPTNB6WeOxRxxtVskMe1MA/viewform?ref=japanearthobserver.com) are due Dec 15, 2025\. This is a great opportunity for both professionals and students that are "space-curious" and looking for an introduction to opportunities, trends, and fundamentals of the industry. **Launches** - HTV-X launch - 25 Oct 2025 - JAXA (English) - [https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=EBEq84QrSEA](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=EBEq84QrSEA&ref=japanearthobserver.com) - JAXA (Japanese) - [https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ljdP\_M5k\_-g&t=272s](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ljdP%5FM5k%5F-g&t=272s&ref=japanearthobserver.com) - HTV-X ISS rendezvous and docking - 29 Oct 2025 - NASA (English) - [https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=OXm8uc5OB70](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=OXm8uc5OB70&ref=japanearthobserver.com) - JAXA (Japanese) - [https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=kvfZ7KGQLWo](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=kvfZ7KGQLWo&ref=japanearthobserver.com) - JAXA RAISE-4 launch - 14 Oct 2025 - Rocket Lab (English) - [https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=cMP328yoUu4](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=cMP328yoUu4&ref=japanearthobserver.com) - JAXA (Japanese) - [https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=REvfb0KvU\_Y](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=REvfb0KvU%5FY&ref=japanearthobserver.com) # # Japanese Trading Companies and Orbital Real Estate Over the past few months there have been a couple of major announcements from so-called “trading companies” making investments in space-related companies in North America and Europe. First, in late August, Ursa Space Systems, a private U.S. company specializing in geospatial data analysis with satellite imagery, [announced an investment from **Sumitomo Corporation**](https://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/sumitomo-corporation-invests-in-ursa-space-to-accelerate-global-growth-and-expand-into-japan-302533957.html?ref=japanearthobserver.com), a Japanese trading company. The additional investment will help Ursa Space expand its operations to Asia. Then in early October, **Mitsubishi Corporation** (三菱商事株式会社), another trading company (and one of many companies sharing the "Mitsubishi" moniker), announced they were [increasing their investment stake in the Starlab Space](https://asia.nikkei.com/business/aerospace-defense-industries/mitsubishi-makes-play-for-real-estate-on-future-space-station?ref=japanearthobserver.com) \[Nikkei Asia\] effort to build a commercial space station to will succeed the ISS after it is deorbited in 2030. If you follow the U.S. investment scene, you may have also heard of Japanese trading companies in another context: in 2020 five of these firms - **Mitsubishi**, **Mitsui**, **Itochu**, **Sumitomo**, and **Marubeni** \- were the first investments Warren Buffett and Berkshire Hathaway had ever made in the Japanese economy. Berkshire initially bought a 5% stake in each of the five firms, but earlier this year increased its stake to almost 10% and then in late September increased its investment further in Mitsui and Mitsubishi. I doubt Buffett is making this decision based on the trading companies’ space investments, but it has drawn attention to these distinctly Japanese conglomerates, and I thought it might be interesting to take a closer look at both the trading companies, the various affiliated companies, and how they relate to the space industry. ## What is a “Trading Company”? The term “trading company” is a direct translation from the Japanese *sōgō shōsha* (総合商社); *sōgō* means “general” and *shōsha* means “trading company”. While they got their start as import/export businesses, they have expanded into international natural resources exploration, logistics, investment, and retail. They are extremely diverse companies with a stake in an extraordinary array of enterprises. In some respects they resemble large conglomerates like Berkshire Hathaway, but they have a number of key differences. There are hundreds of shōsha in Japan, but there are five major ones that have a disproportionate impact: Mitsubishi, Mitsui, Itochu, Sumitomo, and Marubeni. With an aggregate market value at the end of FY2024 of ¥38 trillion (\~US $260 billion) and ¥3.80 trillion (US $25.3 billion) in net profit, these are not small companies. Mitsubishi and Mitsui are the largest and have the longest history, but all five of the major shōsha are extremely diversified and own many entities both in Japan and globally. They often have significant investments in metals, mining, energy, and other commodities, but they also have investments in health care, retail, manufacturing, and components. As mentioned above, they are difficult to categorize and Moody's actually puts them in a category of their own. At a basic level, the shōsha are engaged in three activities: trading, investing, and operating businesses. **Trading:** First, the trading business is similar to wholesaling or distribution and it's often international. The shōsha serve as intermediaries that buy something overseas and then sell it to a Japanese company or vice versa. Along the way, they provide support and consulting services as well as credit to either or both parties. I’ll go into a bit more detail about the origin story of the shōshas, but this trading activity was the historical core of the shōsha business. **Investing:** Second, particularly over the past thirty years, shōsha have increasingly invested their own capital, particularly in businesses or sectors in which they have a lot of experience and deep knowledge. For example, Mitsui might invest capital in developing an iron ore mine in Australia and thereby gain access to the output of the mine, which it will then sell to a Japanese steelmaker. **Operating businesses:** Third, for businesses in which they hold a controlling stake, the shōsha may also be a passive or active operator of the business. For example Itochu operates the Family Mart convenience store chain as well as having stakes in much of the supply and distribution chain that support Family Mart stores. **Research and information gathering:** Finally, while it is not an explicit part of the revenue and profit of the shōsha, they serve as an intelligence and information agency for the network or family of companies with which they are associated. Their far-flung, global trading and investment activities plus their exposure to an extraordinarily diverse array of industries in Japan provide them with a remarkable network of information sources. Many of the shōsha may be 150 year old companies, but they have a reputation for creative, challenging work and they pay 3-4x more than the average firm in Japan, so they tend to attract the best job candidates in the country. While the salary is attractive, they also have a reputation for giving young people a lot of hands-on experience and responsibility. In a Japanese work culture that is often focused on seniority as the mechanism for advancement, these are attractive places to work if you are young, bright, and ambitious. | Trading Company | Market Cap (31 Mar 2025) | Revenue (FY2024) (Revenues) | Net Profit (FY2024) | Employees (Consolidated) | | ---------------------- | ------------------------ | --------------------------- | -------------------- | ------------------------ | | Itochu Corporation | ¥10.99 trillion | ¥14.72 trillion | ¥880.3 billion | 110,487 | | Mitsubishi Corporation | ¥10.60 trillion | ¥18.62 trillion | ¥950.7 billion | 62,062 | | Mitsui & Co. | ¥8.19 trillion | ¥14.66 trillion | ¥900.3 billion | 56,400 | | Sumitomo Corporation | ¥4.11 trillion | ¥7.29 trillion | ¥561.9 billion | 83,327 | | Marubeni Corporation | ¥3.97 trillion | ¥7.79 trillion | ¥503.0 billion | 51,834 | | **Total** | **¥37.86 trillion** | **¥63.08 trillion** | **¥3,796.2 billion** | **364,110** | ## Where did the Trading Companies come from? To understand the origin story of the shōsha, we need to look back to at least the Meiji Restoration of 1868, when Japan began a rapid industrialization process following more than 250 years of isolation under the Tokugawa shogunate. Japan's new leaders pursued an aggressive strategy of industrialization and adoption of systems and technology from the Western capitalist democracies, and the shōsha were born in this crucible. The fall of the shogunate and the Meiji era of industrialization proved to be fertile ground for ambitious merchants and former samurai to create new businesses as well as older businesses to diversify in new ways. Through consolidation and acquisition, a few of these new companies grew into family-owned industrial conglomerates that often gained monopoly control of entire industries and became known as *zaibatsu (財閥)*. Each zaibatsu was a holding company that owned several subsidiaries that were engaged in a range of industries, from shipping to manufacturing. Each zaibatsu also had a trading company or shōsha. Japan had few natural resources of its own to support the industrialization process, and it was necessary for companies to purchase and import both raw materials and technology. Trading companies were set up to play this role. For example, early trading companies might purchase advanced machinery for textile manufacturing from the UK and Germany and cotton and raw materials from India and then sell it to the new Japanese textile companies getting off the ground. Alongside the machinery and commodities, they would also extend credit and provide training services. Following Japan's surrender in August 1945, one of the first steps taken by the U.S. Occupation authorities was to force the breakup of the zaibatsu. About 2,000 senior executives were removed from their posts and banned from serving as executives in other firms; assets of the controlling families were seized, the holding companies were dissolved; and the interlocking directorships and cross-shareholding relationships were eliminated. Douglas MacArthur makes Lina Kahn look timid in comparison. This monopoly-busting and business leadership decapitation enabled both new firms and younger business leaders to fill the gaps as well as opening up new opportunities for the old components of the zaibatsu. Through the forced antitrust measures, the newly unfettered Japanese people were able to generate one of the most extraordinary examples of prolonged economic dynamism in human history. In 1950, people were still dying from starvation, and Japan’s per capita income was the same as Somalia and Ethiopia and 40% less than India. Japanese exports were weak. From 1951 to 1971, per capita income grew five-fold, and Japan was the second largest economy in the world by the late 1980s. While the dissolution of the zaibatsu was an effective and powerful economic and social signal, the Korean War caused the U.S. Occupation to reconsider their trust-busting, and they reversed course in the 1950s. While the zaibatsu did not return, during the 1960s many of the historically companies gradually re-coalesced into loosely organized clusters of alliances that became known as keiretsu (系列). Each keiretsu typically has a major commercial bank, a trading company, and either a major manufacturing company or an insurance company as its core structural elements and then a flotilla of manufacturing and other operating companies. The whole structure was held together with a combination of cross-shareholding arrangements, presidents councils (社長会) for coordinating strategy, assigned directors, and intragroup financing. The core banks would provide capital for large-scale projects while trading companies would fund working capital of both customers and other keiretsu member companies. Over time, most Japanese companies became at least loosely affiliated with one of the keiretsu. This was not coercive. Rather, it was simply more convenient for a newly formed company to work with other members of a single keiretsu. This might start with a banking relationship or insurance relationship. Then, the bank would be in a position to learn more about your business and its needs and thereby be in a position to introduce your firm to other members of a keiretsu as new needs arose. This keiretsu structure was very effective at supporting the period of rapid reindustrialization after WW II. However, because keiretsu tended to keep many transactions inside the group, there was a significant risk of becoming insular and risk-averse. The Japanese government recognized these drawbacks and over the past thirty years, a number of corporate governance reforms have forced the keiretsu to reduce the amount of cross-shareholding as well as bring in more independent directors. In addition, as the Japanese economy matured out of the initial textile, steel, and chemicals focus and expanded into consumer electronics and automobiles, new companies that were not affiliated with any of the keiretsu, like Toyota and Sony, began to grow rapidly and disintermediate the shōsha. Rather than sitting within a horizontal keiretsu, some of them developed their own vertically integrated hierarchy of supplier firms; Toyota is a paradigmatic example of this structure. The combination of the yen appreciation that followed the 1985 Plaza Accord and the bursting of the real estate bubble in the early 1990s, the importance of the keiretsu and shōsha has gradually declined. More recently, technologies like the Internet have reduced some of the shōsha's information advantages as well. But human relationships and information networks are sticky and powerful, and the shōsha continue to provide key services to affiliated firms as well as invest in, operate, and provide services to a sprawling network of small- and mid-sized Japanese companies both inside and outside the old keiretsu networks. Further, over the past decade in particular, they have made significant improvements to their capital efficiency and return on equity, delivering much stronger results for shareholders. It is likely this combination of characteristics that has attracted Warren Buffett’s attention and investment. I won’t go through the history of all five shōsha, but I think the history of a couple might be illustrative. **Sumitomo** was first incorporated in 1919 as The Osaka North Harbour Company, but the broader business group can trace its roots back 400 years to the early 17th century, when a book and medicine shop was established in Kyoto by Sumitomo Masatomo, a former Buddhist monk. Masatomo's adopted son, Tomomichi, expanded the company into copper mining and refining. When Japan industrialized in the late 1800s, Sumitomo expanded its operations into heavy industry, real estate, chemicals, and manufacturing, becoming one of the huge zaibatsu conglomerates. Following the dissolution of the zaibatsu, in late 1945 Sumitomo's real estate company renamed itself Nippon Engineering Co., restructured itself into a shōsha and shifted its business to import/export and product distribution, eventually becoming today's Sumitomo Corporation. Sumitomo Corporation is part of the Sumitomo Group (住友グループ), a 630,000 employee keiretsu that includes Mazda Motors, NEC, Nippon Steel, Sumitomo Forestry, Sumitomo Mitsui Bank, and a slew of other companies. Management of the group is still guided by the "Founder's Precepts" written down by that former Buddhist monk in the 17th century. **Mitsubishi Groups’s** (三菱グループ) origin story begins with Iwasaki Yataro (1835-1885), a young, low-ranking samurai in the Tosa clan of Kochi on the island of Shikoku, shifted from managing the Tosa clan’s Osaka trading operations to setting up his own shipping company, Tsukumo Shoukai (九十九商会), in 1870, by leasing three steamships from the Tosa clan. Iwasaki built a successful mail, cargo, and passenger shipping service. Meanwhile, the Meiji government had formed its own steamship business, the Japan National Mail Steamship Company (YJK) (日本国郵便蒸気船会社), using government-owned ships, government funds, and funds from wealthy merchant families. But there was a lot of infighting amongst the managers and they were unable to operate even intercoastal shipping. In 1874 the Japanese government decided to launch a military invasion of Taiwan. The army was ready but Japan did not yet have a proper navy, so they tried to recruit YJK to transport the army, but YJK turned them down. Desperate to get on with an invasion, the government turned to Mitsubishi, which jumped at the chance. Iwasaki ended up taking over several government-owned ships and then leased them back to the government. The business grew quickly and Mitsubishi was soon able to force the American and British firms to abandon the Yokohama-Shanghai route. The firm was renamed Mitsubishi Shokai (三菱商会) in 1875 and then renamed again to Mitsubishi Mail Steamship Company (郵便気船三菱会社) later the same year. By the 1880s there was general concern about Mitsubishi dominating the shipping business. The government and Mitsui (now the chief Mitsubishi rival) formed a new transportation company, Kyodo Unyu Kaisha (共同運輸会社), in July 1882 from three smaller firms: Tokyo Fuhansen Kaisha, Hokkaido Unyu Kaisha and Echu Fuhansen Kaisha. Kyodo Unyu kicked off a price war in January 1883\. Over the next two years, the two companies competed fiercely, bringing both near bankruptcy. When Iwasaki Yataro died in 1885 and his brother, Iwasaki Yanosuke, took over, the government brokered a truce and forced the two firms to merge into Nippon Yusen (日本郵船), today’s NYK Line. The merged company now had a fleet of 58 steamships and expanded its operations to new ports in Asia as well as North America and Europe. In parallel with building this shipping enterprise, Iwasaki was also engaged in developing other, related enterprises. He founded the first insurance company in Japan: Tokyo Marine Insurance (東京海上保険) in August 1879\. But shipbuilding would become his more significant venture. The shipbuilding thread of his story begins in 1857, when the Tokugawa Shogunate (which had recently been shocked out of its complacency by Commodore Perry’s steam-powered warships showing up in Uraga Harbor in 1853) invited a group of Dutch engineers to help build a modern foundry and shipyard, Nagasaki Yotetsusho (長崎鎔鉄所). After the 1868 Meiji Restoration, the new Meiji government took over, completing the first dry dock in 1879\. Iwasaki leased the Nagasaki shipyard from the government in 1884 and then bought it outright in 1887\. After adding docks in Yokohama and Shimonoseki over the next forty years, in 1934 it was formally named Mitsubishi Heavy Industries (MHI) (三菱重工業株式会社), becoming the largest private firm in Japan and cranking out ships, heavy machinery, airplanes and railway cars through the end of WW II. Like the other zaibatsu, by WW II MHI was just one of several Mitsubishi companies. Iwasaki Yanosuke ran the company until 1893, when Iwasaki Yataro’s son, Iwasaki Hisaya, took over as president. Yanosuke had purchased copper, coal and other mines. When Hisaya took over, he proceeded to establish divisions for banking, real estate, marketing, and administration, alongside the existing mining, shipping, and shipbuilding businesses. He bought the Kobe Paper Mill (now Mitsubishi Paper Mills), and he invested in the founding of the Kirin Brewery. Hisaya was succeeded by Yanosuke’s son Koyata in 1916\. Koyata changed the structure from divisions within one large firm to separate, semiautonomous companies in each sector. He also added new enterprises in machinery, chemicals, and electrical equipment. Mitsubishi Electric (三菱電機株式会社) was spun out of MHI (then Mitsubishi Shipbuilding) in 1921\. Mitsubishi Shouji (三菱商事) was the trading company that handled import and export. Under the U.S. Occupation the Mitsubishi Headquarters (三菱本社) was closed on 30 September 1946 and many of the Mitsubishi firms were split into smaller organizations. MHI was subdivided into three separate regional equipment manufacturing companies. Mitsubishi Shoji, the trading company, was broken up into 139 separate trading companies. Many of the Mitsubishi companies were encouraged to abandon the Mitsubishi name. With the end of the Occupation and the outbreak of the Korean War, many of the legal restrictions were removed, and the Mitsubishi Group, like the other former zaibatsu, gradually re-formed around a core banking group, a trading company, and a major manufacturer. While never returning to the pre-war fully integrated structure, the related Mitsubishi companies reinstated a level of coordination and mutual support as autonomous, independent firms. Many of the various subdivided trading companies re-formed into Mitsubishi Corporation. The restored trading company’s operations began to shift away from the mere importing and exporting of goods in the 1960s. Starting with an investment in a liquefied natural gas field in Brunei in 1968, Mitsubishi rapidly moved towards investing directly in projects and companies overseas, rather than simply trading commodities and products. Today, the Mitsubishi shōsha holds interests in numerous large energy, mining, chemical, and infrastructure projects abroad, which generate the bulk of the company's revenue. It also operates consumer-facing businesses, including a 50% share in the convenience store chain Lawson, along with other ventures in finance, healthcare, food, and apparel, both in Japan and overseas. In recent years, Mitsubishi has also been active in investing in technology start-ups and clean energy projects. ![gemini-timeline-shosha-v2-1.png](https://storage.ghost.io/c/54/e9/54e9159b-1345-41dd-b7dd-180de33edc5b/content/images/2026/01/gemini-timeline-shosha-v2-1.png) An attempt to get Google Gemini to generate a diagram of trading company history.; Source: Google Gemini and online document. ## Building Japan’s Space Industry Following its reconsolidation from the three regional companies in 1964, Mitsubishi Heavy Industries (MHI) returned to cranking out ships, trains, machinery, and cars. Further, building on its experience building jet fighters and helicopters, in the 1970s MHI also entered the rocket business, building Japan's first liquid-fueled rocket, the N-I rocket based on the U.S. Thor-Delta launch vehicle and an MHI-designed LE-3 engine on the second stage. MHI has since remained the leading manufacturer on all of Japan's flagship launch vehicles, building the N-I, N-II, H-I, H-II, H-IIA, H-IIB, and H3\. MHI also manufactures a significant portion of the [HTV and HTV-X cargo spacecraft that ferry supplies to the ISS](https://www.japanearthobserver.com/jeo-7-htv-x-cargo-freighter-and-the-leo-supply-chain/) and built some components of the Kibo module on the ISS. Meanwhile, Mitsubishi Electric has built a substantial business designing and manufacturing satellites and satellite components as well as contributing to spacecraft such as HTV and HTV-X. Below, I have tried to summarize the areas in which some of the keiretsu networks contribute to the launch, satellite, and geospatial ecosystems. ### Mitsubishi Group (三菱グループ) While the Mitsubishi Group has retained its original name and identity, the current group is actually the result of a series of mergers in the early 2000s. The Sanwa Group was led by Sanwa Bank (三和銀行) and had two trading companies: Nissho Iwai (日商岩井) and Nichimen (ニチメン). Following the stock market and real estate crash of the 1990s, Sanwa was loaded with bad debts and it merged with Tokai Bank and Toyo Trust to form UFJ Holdings (UFJホールディングス). Then UFJ Holdings merged with Bank of Tokyo-Mitsubishi to form Mitsubishi UFJ Financial Group, the current financial anchor of the Mitsubishi Group. Nissho Iwai and Nichimen merged in 2004 to form Sojitz Corporation (双日). While Sojitz and Mitsubishi Corp (the original Mitsubishi shōsha) share the same MUFG Bank, they remain competitors and Sojitz continues to be affiliated with the old Sanwa Group. I’ll treat Sojitz as if it is part of a separate Sanwa Group below. | Company (English) | Company (Japanese) | Notes | | -------------------------------------- | --------------------- | -------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- | | Mitsubishi UFJ Financial Group (MUFG) | 株式会社三菱UFJフィナンシャル・グループ | largest financial institution in Japan; operates a space innovation office; investor in many space and geospatial startups; offers eMAXIS Neo Space Development fund to enable retail investors to track global space economy firms | | Mitsubishi Corporation | 三菱商事株式会社 | core trading company in Mitsubishi Group; investor in Starlab Space, Japan Space Imaging (JSI), PASCO | | Mitsubishi Heavy Industries | 三菱重工業株式会社 | anchor manufacturer in Mitsubishi group; prime contractor and lead manufacturer of liquid-fuel rockets, rocket engines, and HTV cargo spacecraft; assembled ISS Kibo research module; propulsion and reaction control systems for satellites; rocket launch services | | Mitsubishi Electric | 三菱電機株式会社 | major manufacturing and satellite systems integrator including communications, Earth observation, navigation, and scientific research; DS2000 satellite bus; satellite components; tracking and ground control systems; optical and radio telescopes | | Mitsubishi HC Capital Inc. (MHC) | 三菱ＨＣキャピタル株式会社 | formerly Mitsubishi UFJ Lease & Finance; owned by MUFG and Mitsubishi Corp; leads the private finance initiative (PFI), GMSS that operates Himawari weather satellites; co-invests with MUFG in space startups; financing for the transport and logistics of satellite and rocket components; leasing services for sensors and measurement devices | | Mitsubishi Precision (MPC) | 三菱プレシジョン株式会社 | satellite attitude control systes; radio and inertial navigation sensors (RINA); subsidiary of MHI, MELCO, and MUFG | | Mitsubishi Research Institute (MRI) | 株式会社三菱総合研究所 | space business research and consulting; space policy research; satellite data processing; satellite-based monitoring and surveillance; maritime logistics; disaster impact assessment; investor in New Space Intelligence (NSI) | | Mitsubishi Cable Industries | 三菱電線工業株式会社 | rubber- and resin-based sealing parts (O-rings) for extreme environments; materials research; wholly owned subsidiary of Mitsubishi Materials | | Mitsubishi Materials Corporation (MMC) | 三菱マテリアル株式会社 | specialty metal components and alloys used in rocket engines and launch vehicles, thermal protection systems; electronic components and circuits for satellites and ground stations; specialized tooling | | NYK Line | 日本郵船株式会社 | developing sea-based rocket recovery ships | | Tokio Marine Holdings | 東京海上ホールディングス株式会社 | launch and spacecraft insurance; investor in Sierra Space | | Japan Space Imaging (JSI) \* | 日本スペースイメージング株式会社 | distributes high resolution imagery from Japanese, U.S. and other commercial Earth observation satellites | \* JSI was established by Mitsubishi Corp to distribute high-resolution imagery, but Hitachi became the majority shareholder in 2013 and it is now jointly operated by Mitsubishi, Hitachi, and NEC Corporation. ### Sumitomo Group (住友グループ) | Company (English) | Company (Japanese) | Notes | | --------------------------------------------------------------- | -------------------------------- | ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- | | Sumitomo Corporation | 住友商事株式会社 | anchor trading company in Sumitomo Group; trading in satellite components and ground stations; investor in SpinLaunch, Synspective (SAR), Ursa Space Systems, and HawkEye 360 (RF) | | Sumitomo Precision Products (SPP) | 住友商事株式会社 | high-precision gyroscopes for domestic rockets; acquired by Sumitomo Corp in 2023 | | NEC Corporation | 日本電気 株式会社 | satellite manufacturing, satellite components, ground systems, services; investor in Japan Space Imaging (JSI) | | NEC Space Technologies | NECスペーステクノロジー | payload, telecommunications, power control, data handling, attitude control, telemetry, and thermal control components for satellites and rockets; began as a joint venture by NEC (60%) and Toshiba (40%) called NEC Toshiba Space Systems Ltd. (NTSpace); NEC acquired Toshiba's shares in 2015 | | Kaneka Corporation | 株式会社カネカ | films, cables, insulation for satellites; spun off from Kanegafuchi Spinning Co. in 1949 | | MS&AD Insurance Group\* | MS&ADインシュアランスグループホールディングス株式会社 \* | spacecraft insurance and lunar insurance | | Sumitomo Mitsui Banking Corporation (SMBC) \*\* | 三井住友銀行 \*\* | financing for ground stations, spaceports, space logistics supply chains, and hyperscale data centers; investor in Interstellar Technologies and Space BD | | Japan Aviation Electronics Industry (JAE) \[historical\] \*\*\* | 日本航空電子工業株式会社 \*\*\* | inertial measurement units (IMU) for rockets; accelerometers; magnetometers | \* MS&AD Insurance Group is the result of several mergers and is now associated with both the Sumitomo and Mitsui Groups. \*\* SMBC is the result of several mergers and is now associated with both the Sumitomo and Mitsui Groups. \*\*\* NEC sold 33% share to Kyocera in Oct 2025, so JAE is no longer part of Sumitomo keiretsu; NEC Corp Retirement Trust still owns \~20% of the shares. ### Mitsui Group (三井グループ) | Company (English) | Company (Japanese) | Notes | | ----------------------------------------------- | -------------------------------- | ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- | | Mitsui & Co (trading company) | 三井物産株式会社 | anchor trading company in Mitsui Group; investor in Axiom as ISS successor, Spire Global, Mitsui Bussan Aerospace, and Interstellar Technologies Inc. (IST) | | Mitsui Bussan Aerospace | 三井物産エアロスペース株式会社 | specialized trading company for aerospace, defense, and space; satellite manufacturing, satellite development services, ground station services, satellite deployment services for Kibo; subsidiary of Mitsui & Co. | | Japan LEO Shachu | 株式会社日本低軌道社中 | R&D on autonomous module and cargo resupply system technologies; design for next gen research module (successor to Kibo on ISS) and HTV-XC next gen cargo vessel; subsidiary of Mitsui & Co. | | Toray Advanced Composites | 東レ・アドバンスド・コンポジット | carbon fiber, synthetic resin, advanced composite materials, fairings, heat sinks, and satellite structures; founded as TenCate Advanced Composites in 1972; acquired by Toray Industries (東レ株式会社) in 2018; Toray Industries was est. in 1926 as Toyo Rayon Co., Ltd. by Mitsui Bussan (the trading company that became Mitsui & Co.) | | MS&AD Insurance Group\* | MS&ADインシュアランスグループホールディングス株式会社 \* | spacecraft insurance and lunar insurance | | Sumitomo Mitsui Banking Corporation (SMBC) \*\* | 三井住友銀行 \*\* | financing for ground stations, spaceports, space logistics supply chains, and hyperscale data centers; investor in Interstellar Technologies and Space BD | \* MS&AD Insurance Group is the result of several mergers and is now associated with both the Sumitomo and Mitsui Groups. \*\* SMBC is the result of several mergers and is now associated with both the Sumitomo and Mitsui Groups ### DKB Group, Fuyo Group, and Mizuho The current Mizuho Financial Group is the result of a series of mergers in the 1970s and 2000s. In 1971, Dai-ichi Bank (第一銀行) and Nippon Kangyo Bank (日本勧業銀行) merged to form Dai-ichi Kangyo Bank (第一勧業銀行), becoming the largest bank in Japan as well as the new central bank for the largest keiretsu at the time: DKB Group. The collapse of the asset bubble in the 1990s exposed mismanagement and corruption at Dai-ichi Kangyo Bank. In 2002 DKB merged with Fuji Bank and the Industrial Bank of Japan to form Mizuho Financial Group ('mizuho' (瑞穂) literally means ‘abundant rice’ but figuratively means 'harvest'). The greatly enlarged Mizuho is an investor in PASCO, SPACE ONE, and many other space and geospatial enterprises. Despite the massive merger of DKB, Fuji Bank, and IBJ, rather than forming a new, enlarged keiretsu, the Fuji and DKB Groups continue to operate independently. Fuji Bank had led its own keiretsu, Fuyo Group (芙蓉グループ), that included Hitachi, Nissan, Canon, Showa Denko, and othersl, many of which continue to coordinate within the group. DKB also had a large keiretsu that included Kawasaki Heavy Industries and the Itochu shosha. The DKB and Fuyo Groups also share another thread of common history. The anchor trading houses of each, Marubeni and Itochu, respectively, were founded by Itoh Chubei, a Kansai merchant who started a linen trading business in 1858\. Due to a serious recession in 1921, the trading business was split into two parts: Marubeni and Itochu. However, in 1941, during WW II, the two trading houses were forced to recombine to form Sanko (三興株式会社), later renamed to Daiken (大建産業) when merging with two other companies in 1944\. Then, in 1949, under the U.S. Occupation, Daiken was re-separated into the current Itochu and Marubeni. Post-war Marubeni (now part of the Fuyo Group) was initially mostly a textile trading firm, but it merged with the Takashimaya-Iida trading company in 1955 and diversified into retail, machinery, metals and chemicals in subsequent years. Itochu similarly diversified as part of the DKB Group, expanding from textiles to machinery, minerals, energy, chemicals, food processing, and retail. ### Fuyo Group (芙蓉グループ) The Fuyo Group formed after WW II from the former Yasuda, Asano, and Okura zaibatsu. Fuji Bank was the anchor financial institution but is now part of Mizuho. The Fuyo Group (“fuyo” means “hibiscus” and is also an alternative name for Mount Fuji, the namesake for Fuji Bank) continues to function separately with member company presidents gathering regularly in Fuyo-kai meetings. It includes the following firms operating in geospatial- and space-related industries: | Company (English) | Company (Japanese) | Notes | | ------------------------------------ | ------------------ | ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------ | | Marubeni | 丸紅株式会社 | anchor trading company in the Fuyo Group; investor in D-Orbit (Italian space logistics firm) Orbit Fab (U.S. satellite refueling and storage); Interstellar (small launch vehicles); serve as the Japanese representative for several U.S. and European satellite components and ground station equipment manufacturers; founding member of Spaceport Japan Association | | Sompo Japan Insurance | 損害保険ジャパン | formerly Yasuda Fire & Marine; wholly owned subsidiary of Sompo Holdings; rocket launch and satellite insurance to Mitsubishi, NEC, and JAXA; satellite methane emission detection and disaster response used in insurance business | | Marubeni Aerospace Corporation (MAC) | 丸紅エアロスペース株式会社 | wholly owned subsidiary of Marubeni; most of aerospace work from 1998 Okura Aerospace Co acquisition; imports sensors from L3Harris for Himawari weather satellites as well as GOSAT-2; imports satellite buses, gyroscopes, and reaction wheels from Honeywell | | Hitachi | 株式会社日立製作所 | historically part of the Fuyo Group, but increasingly works with other keiretsu; majority shareholder in Japan Space Imaging (JSI) (originally created by Mitsubishi); asset management software uses drone and satellite imagery; manufactures ground control systems and mission management software; space cybersecurity; joint venture GE Hitachi Nuclear Energy develops small modular nuclear reactors | | Canon Electronics | キヤノン電子株式会社 | Canon Inc. (parent company) is part of Fuyo Group but operates independently in many respects; builds and operates high-resolution, low-cost microsatellites that put an EOS 5D or EOS R5 camera system into orbit; optical sensors and actuators; maritime situational awareness and disaster prevention services; investor in SPACE ONE and Marble Visions | | Fujitsu | 富士通株式会社 | lead technology and ICT provider for the Fuyo Group as well as Mizuho; joint research with JAXA and Nagoya University on space weather forecasting; digital twin of the ISS Kibo module; simulations for satellite design; software to optimize orbits and ground station communication; digital twins; quantum computing for satellite material science; operates a Space Data Frontiers Research Center | | OKI Electric Cable | 沖電線株式会社 | wholly-owned subsidiary of OKI Electric Group; high performance cabling and flexible printed circuits (FPCs) for satellites | | RICOH | 株式会社リコー | a space-hardened, compact spherical camera used on ISS and HTV-X perovskite solar cells used on JAXA's HTV-X cargo vehicle; high resolution vehicle-mounted cameras for mapping; 3D digital twins | | Resonac | 株式会社レゾナック | Showa Denko merged with Hitachi Chemical in 2023 and rebranded as Resonac; semiconductor materials and substrates; has an MOU with Axiom Space to continue its on-orbit research currently done on the ISS | ### DKB Group (第一勧銀グループ) DKB Group did not arise from a large Meiji era zaibatsu. Rather, it emerged in 1971 from the merger of three smaller lineages. Dai-ichi Bank was the core bank of the Shibusawa network founded by Shibusawa Eiichi (渋沢 栄一) in 1873\. Nippon Kangyo Bank (NKB) was a former state-owned "special bank" focused on agriculture and regional industry. The industrial components came from the smaller Furukawa zaibatsu, including Furukawa Electric, Fuji Electric, and Fujitsu. The heavy industry component came from the smaller Kawasaki zaibatsu, which included Kawasaki Heavy Industries and Kawasaki Steel. The DKB Group combined the two banks and the Furukawa, Kawasaki, and Shibusawa industrial lineages into a new network. While the financial unit is now part of Mizuho, the DKB Group continues to function separately with member presidents regularly attending Sankin-kai (三金会) meetings. It includes the following firms operating in geospatial- and space-related industries: | Company (English) | Company (Japanese) | Notes | | ------------------------------- | -------------------------------------------------- | ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------ | | Itochu Corporation | 伊藤忠商事株式会社 | historic shosha that anchored DKB Group; has an Aerospace and Mobility Division; investor in PASCO, Infostellar, ZeroAvia, Killic Aerospace, and Wingcopter; has long relationships with major defense and aerospace contractors like Boeing, Lockheed Martin, and Raytheon | | Kawasaki Heavy Industries (KHI) | 川崎重工業株式会社 | rocket payload fairings; payload attachment fittings (PAF); Kibo module, satellites; H2 launch complex | | Nihon Hikoki (NIPPI) | 日本飛行機株式会社 | satellite components and structural components for rockets and probes; developed components of the Lambda series rockets beginning in 1963; acquired by Kawasaki Heavy Industries in 2002 | | Shimizu Corporation | 清水建設株式会社 | spaceport engineering and construction, propellant tanks, satellite data analytics; R&D on habitation modules; investor in SPACE ONE | | SKY Perfect JSAT Holdings | 株式会社スカイパーJSAT（ジェイサット）ホールディングス スカパーJSAT（ジェイサット）株式会社 | satellite broadcast and communications; partnerships with KSAT (Kongsberg), Hawkeye 360, Planet Labs, and Taiwan CNS; broadcasts/operations in Indonesia, Vietnam, Philippines, Qatar; contract for dedicated Pelican satellites from Planet Labs; investor in iQPS; Itochu is 27% shareholder; other major shareholders include NTT Group (10%), Nippon Television Holdings (7.4%), and TBS Holdings (6.5%) | | Kubota Corporation | 株式会社クボタ | has strong ties with DKB Group and Mizuho, but it operates more independently than most keiretsu members and regularly partners with Marubeni (Fuyo), Sompo Japan (Fuyo), and others; developing closed-loop agriculture systems for long-term space habitats; uses hyperspectral data to monitor soil health; digital twins of farms; autonomous agriculture equipment | **Kanematsu (兼松株式会社)** began by importing Australian wool in 1889, expanded to wheat in 1900, and then became a more diversified trading company after WW II. Kanematsu is a second trading company that retains strong ties to the DKB Group, including a long-time banking relationship with Mizuho. However, it is somewhat more independent and serves as a neutral bridge to other keiretsu. It is an investor in Sierra Space, a partner on Sierra/Blue Origin Orbital Reef commercial space station and has facilitated IHI Aerospace providing the docking system for Orbital Reef. ### Sanwa Group As noted above under the Mitsubishi Group, this group shares a common core bank, Mitsubishi UFJ Financial Group (MUFG), but it otherwise continues to operate within its own network including a president’s council known as Midori-kai. | Company (English) | Company (Japanese) | Notes | | ------------------ | ------------------ | -------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- | | Sojitz Corporation | 双日株式会社 | anchor trading company for Sanwa Group after merger of Nichimen and Nissho-Iwai; partnership with Degas on geospatial foundation AI models; investor in Ricult | | Sojitz Aerospace | 双日エアロスペース株式会社 | materials and components for solid rocket boosters; import and distribute satellite components | ### It’s Complicated The above list might suggest that the entire space and geospatial industries are coordinated through these large keiretsu networks. However, despite the above focus on the early history of the major zaibatsu industrial conglomerates and their evolution into the keiretsu networks after WW II and the U.S. Occupation, it is important to reemphasize a point from above: a combination of government regulation, mergers and acquisition, innovative startups, and the disintermediating force of the Internet have weakened keiretsu networks, and they are much less important today. Keiretsu ties have weakened since the 1990s in general, and most new firms cultivate relationships with multiple investors, trading companies, suppliers, and other strategic partners. Even when a startup is set up by a shōsha or another keiretsu firm, they frequently seek diverse additional investors. Even many century-old companies that arose in the zaibatsu era have remained independent and maintain financial, trading, and supplier relationships with a wide range of partners. A few examples follow. **IHI Corporation (株式会社IHI)** (formerly Ishikawajima-Harima Heavy Industries (石川島播磨重工業株式会社) is a major industrial rival to Mitsubishi Heavy Industries (MHI) and Kawasaki Heavy Industries (KHI), but while IHI has a venerable industrial history that stretches back to 1853, it has maintained relationships with all of the major sogo shosha and major banks. Its aerospace business was acquired from Nissan’s Aerospace and Defense Divisions to form IHI Aerospace. Today, it is a major manufacturer of rockets (Epsilon and KAIROS), payload fairings, sensors, and satellites and is an investor in startups such as SPACE ONE. It also has a partnership with Kanematsu and Sierra Space and also contributes to the HTV and HTV-X cargo spacecraft. **Toyota (トヨタ自動車 株式会社)** \- While the founder, Toyoda Sakichi, received early financial and business support from the Mitsui zaibatsu in developing his textile business, Toyota charted a course independent from Mitsui or other zaibatsu/keiretsu. Like many large manufacturers, it has built a so-called “vertical keiretsu” that consists of a hierarchical network of thousands of companies that supply parts, materials, and services to the main company. Today, Toyota is both an investor and manufacturer of space-rated materials and high profile projects like a pressurized lunar rover. **Honda (本田技研工業株式会社)** \- Like many rapidly growing manufacturing and technology firms established after WWW II, Honda is not associated with any keiretsu, and it has cultivated a reputation for nimble, innovative product development. Similar to Toyota, it has developed its own independent vertical keiretsu of suppliers. Its recent R&D work has focused on developing a reusable rocket, robotics, and space-grade fuel cells. **Toshiba (株式会社 東芝)** previously built satellites in a joint venture with NEC (NEC TOSHIBA Space Systems) but now focuses on a few high value data, software and components. Toshiba was created in 1939 from a merger between Shibaura Engineering Works and Tokyo Electric. Shibaura had been a Mitsui company, and Mitsui Bank saved the company from insolvency in 1893\. Tokyo Electric brought with it close ties with U.S. firm General Electric and banking relationships with both Fuyo and DKB Groups. So it has actually participated in the executive councils of Mitsui, Fuyo and DKB Groups, until it was taken private in 2023 and is now owned by a consortium of companies. **Furukawa Electric (古河電気工業株式会社)** both leads its own historic Furukawa Group founded in 1875 and has deep ties to the DKB and Fuyo Groups. It manufactures superconducting wires; metals, polymers, photonics, high frequency materials, optical fiber/cables for high speed communications for ground stations, copper foil for batteries and semiconductors, heat pipes, and thermal management systems. **Nippon Steel (日本製鉄株式会社)** is a core member of both the Fuyo and DKB Groups, participating in the president’s councils of both. Further, since its 2023 merger with Sumitomo Metal Industries, it also has strong ties with the Sumitomo Group. The firm creates long-span steel structures used in rocket vehicle assembly buildings, low expansion alloys used in spacecraft, polyimide for flexible printed circuits (FPCs) and stainless steel foil used in satellite and spacecraft; high performance steel components for rocket engines; and space-grade metal powders for 3D printing large rocket components (collaboration with Nikon). ## Investing in Commercial Orbital Real Estate Above, I mentioned that Mitsubishi Corporation (the Mitsubishi shōsha) had announced they were [increasing their investment stake in the Starlab Space](https://asia.nikkei.com/business/aerospace-defense-industries/mitsubishi-makes-play-for-real-estate-on-future-space-station?ref=japanearthobserver.com) \[Nikkei Asia\]. They are not alone; two other Japanese trading companies, **Mitsui & Co**.(三井物産株式会社) and **Kanematsu** (兼松株式会社), are also investing in attempts to launch and build commercial space stations. The Starlab Space effort is a consortium led by [Voyager Technologies](https://voyagertechnologies.com/?ref=japanearthobserver.com) and Airbus along with Mitsubishi, MDA, Palantir, and Space Applications Services. The additional investment from Mitsubishi will make it the third largest shareholder. Starlab was started in the U.S., and the Airbus investment added a Germany-based joint venture in January. Based on that precedent, it's possible that the Mitsubishi investment will also result in a Japan joint venture to support some facets of the space station development. What does Mitsubishi get out of this? I think they want to be in charge of running the research lab on the Starlab space station. This would enable them to solicit contracts from organizations seeking to conduct research in orbit, and they would also presumably become a key supplier of materials, components, and resupply of the station. The Japanese Kibo research module on the ISS has been a standout success and a key element of Japan’s space strategy over the past two decades. Many Japanese firms, universities, and government projects have been hosted there, and several dozen commercial experiments, R&D projects, and academic papers are generated every year as a consequence. The Kibo module is the only ISS module that has a dedicated airlock, robotic arm, and external exposure platform, enabling it to serve as a platform to launch satellites and conduct experiments that rely on exposure to vacuum. Essentially, it functions as a miniature spaceport within the station. This has also enabled Japan to leverage Kibo as a source of soft power. The **KiboCUBE Program** was launched in 2015 as a partnership between JAXA and the United Nations Office for Outer Space Affairs (UNOOSA). KiboCUBE provides educational and research institutions in developing countries the chance to deploy their own cubesats from the Kibo module. Through this program Japan essentially sponsors their entry into the club of spacefaring nations. - Kenya (2018): Deployed its first-ever satellite (1KUNS-PF) - Guatemala (2020): Deployed Quetzal-1, the country's first satellite. - Uganda & Zimbabwe (2022): Both nations launched their first satellites via Kibo. Recent selections have included institutions from Mauritius and Indonesia, expanding Japan's influence in the Global South. The **Asian Beneficial Collaboration through Kibo Utilization (Kibo-ABC)** program focuses specifically on the Asia-Pacific region, enabling Japan to position itself as a scientific leader of the region. The **Asian Try Zero-G**, enables youth and scientists from countries like Thailand, Vietnam, and Malaysia to submit experiment ideas. If accepted, JAXA astronauts then perform these experiments on Kibo while live-streaming to the participants' home countries. **Kibo Robot Programming Challenge (Kibo-RPC)**: Students from across Asia compete to program NASA’s Astrobee and JAXA’s Int-Ball robots inside Kibo. Through 2025 this program has welcomed thousands of participants from over 10 countries, fostering a generation of engineers who view Japan as their primary technical partner. Japan has successfully leveraged its investment in the Kibo module to not only strengthen its own industry and research but also engage in capacity building and cooperation globally. The Kibo module, robotic arm, and airlock have become a type of infrastructure that Japan can extend to countries that do not yet have the means. By helping a nation launch its first satellite, Japan builds long-term bilateral ties that can be extended into trade, defense, and telecommunications. It also creates an alumni network of international scientists who are trained on Japanese systems and standards. The planned de-orbiting of the ISS in 2030 will close a chapter in a key space program for Japan. Like the United States, Japan is keen to be part of the next generation of commercial space stations that are aiming to replace the role of the ISS. It is difficult to determine if the investments by the trading companies are being centrally directed by the government, but at least three Japanese trading houses have placed bets on different commercial space station development efforts. In addition to Mitsubishi's investment in Starlab, Mitsui & Co. has a stake in Axiom Space, and Kanematsu is backing the Sierra Space and Blue Origin effort known as Orbital Reef. Kanematsu is also serving as an intermediary for its partner, IHI Aerospace, which is providing the Passive Docking System (PDS) for the inflatable Orbital Reef modules. A fourth commercial space station effort, Vast, does not have a Japanese trading company investor, but **Japan Manned Space Systems (JAMSS)**, which has coordinated Kibo operations on the ISS, is developing a multi-purpose payload component for the Vast HAVEN-1 that can accommodate microgravity experiments and small payload modules. It is not clear which of these commercial space station efforts will be be successful, but Japanese firms clearly want a seat at the table, and the sprawling international network of relationships maintained by the sōgō shōsha trading companies are a key mechanism for Japanese research and expertise to be extended into the post-ISS era. ![artist-concept-starlab-space.png](https://storage.ghost.io/c/54/e9/54e9159b-1345-41dd-b7dd-180de33edc5b/content/images/2026/01/artist-concept-starlab-space.png) Artist’s concept of the Starlab commercial space station. Credit: Starlab Space If you’ve made it this far, thank you for reading. Please be in touch [via LinkedIn](https://www.linkedin.com/in/rcheetham/?ref=japanearthobserver.com) with any feedback, questions, comments, or requests for future topics. And if you have a friend or colleague that you think would enjoy JEO, please share it! Until next time, Robert --- Another year is gone still in my traveler’s hat and straw sandals. – Matsuo Bashō (1644–1694) - translated by David Landis Barnhill 年暮れぬ 笠きて草鞋 はきながら *toshi kurenu* *kasa kite waraji* *hakinagara* ### JEO 7 - The HTV-X Cargo Freighter and the LEO Supply Chain URL: https://www.japanearthobserver.com/jeo-7-htv-x-cargo-freighter-and-the-leo-supply-chain/ Last updated: 2025-10-27T01:00:35.000Z Welcome to Japan Earth Observer (JEO), a free (approximately) monthly newsletter with a news roundup and one in-depth article about the space, Earth observation and geospatial industries in Japan. In addition to a news roundup, in this edition I’m also going to write a bit about the **new HTV-X cargo supply spacecraft JAXA just launched** for the first time to the ISS. ## News & Announcements ### 💱 Contracts and Funding - **Astroscale** and Open Cosmos have been awarded [a US $7 million three-year contract with the UK Ministry of Defense](https://spacenews.com/astroscale-secures-uk-defense-contract-for-space-weather-object-tracking-mission/?ref=japanearthobserver.com) \[\]SpaceNews\] to support design, manufacturing, launch, and operation of the two Orpheus satellites. The two satellites will fly in close formation with a hyperspectral imager and four other instruments for studying the ionosphere and the impacts of space weather caused by solar activity. - **Interstellar Technologies** has [raised JPY 8.9 billion (\~US $62 million) for work on a launch vehicle and satellite technologies](https://www.istellartech.com/en%5Fnews/10107?ref=japanearthobserver.com) and represents a mix of new capital from investors and debt financing. Interstellar is considering this latest round as a Series F, and will continue to provide capital for development of its Zero launch vehicle as well as communications satellites. Currently, the vehicle is expected to launch in 2027 from the Hokkaido Spaceport in Taiki. - **Space BD**, a launch services provider, and Gilmour Space, an Australian launch vehicle developer, [have signed an agreement enabling Space BD to sell space on Gilmour’s Eris small launch vehicle](https://news.satnews.com/2025/07/08/australias-gilmour-space-and-japans-space-bd-to-provide-satellite-launch-services-expand-opportunities-in-asia-pacific/?ref=japanearthobserver.com). - *Why does this matter?* Gilmour’s southern hemisphere spaceport will enable SpaceBD to be able to offer more launch options to its customers as well as deliver payloads and components for the ElaraSat bus that Gilmour has also developed. - **Mitsubishi Heavy Industries** has signed [a contract with Sierra Space to provide another Passive Common Berthing Mechanism (PCBM)](https://www.sierraspace.com/press-releases/sierra-space-awarded-contract-by-mitsubishi-heavy-industries/?ref=japanearthobserver.com) for docking pressurized spacecraft at the ISS. - *Why does this matter?* The HTV-X cargo supply vehicle does not yet have an autonomous docking capability, so until it does MHI is buying PCBMs from Sierra. - **ASTRO GATE** and **SpaceShift** signed an [MOU to work together on solutions that use satellite data for spaceport development](https://astrogate.jp/en/news/astrogate-spaceshift-mou-en/?ref=japanearthobserver.com). [ASTRO GATE](https://astrogate.jp/?ref=japanearthobserver.com) plans, develops, and operates spaceports, not just as places from which to launch rockets but also as catalysts for regional economic development. To promote private-sector use of satellite data, SpaceShift operates the SateBiz Consortium, of which ASTRO GATE will become a member. - **Geolonia** has [acquired](https://www.geolonia.com/archives/5960/?ref=japanearthobserver.com) **Georepublic** **Japan**. Georepublic has been a long-time contributor to open data and open source geospatial software tooling with significant experience developing government technology. Geolonia is a developer of web mapping, addressing, and smart city tools. - *Why does this matter?* The Georepublic acquisition adds a significant bench of open source software engineers as well as the founder, [Seki Haruyuki](https://github.com/halsk/profile?ref=japanearthobserver.com), to the team. Seki is a bit of a technology celebrity in the govtech world. In addition to Georepublic, he has led [Code for Japan](https://www.code4japan.org/?ref=japanearthobserver.com) and HackCamp as well as serving as Chief Digital Service Fellow for Tokyo Metropolitan Government and Chief Innovation Officer for Kobe City and as an advisor to a range of government entities.. - **Interstellar** has secured [three additional investors](https://www.istellartech.com/en%5Fnews/10107?ref=japanearthobserver.com), **Sumitomo Mitsui Bank**, **SPARX Asset Management**, and **Japanet**. The additional funds include JPY 6.5 billion (US $45.1 million) in equity financing and JPY 2.4 billion ( US $16.7 million) in debt financing. This is Sumitomo Mitsui’s first space-related investment, and the bank will also contribute expertise to help build and strengthen the manufacturing supply chain. Interstellar has additional funding from the Japanese government through a Phase 3 SBIR from the Ministry of Education, Culture, Sports, Science, and Technology (MEXT) and the [JAXA Space Strategy Fund](https://www.japanearthobserver.com/jeo-3-japans-space-strategy-fund/#japans-space-strategy-fund-space-industrial-policy-at-scale). - **SkyPerfect JSAT** and **iQPS** have been [awarded a contract to provide SAR imagery](https://www.skyperfectjsat.space/en/news/20250731%5F2?ref=japanearthobserver.com) by the **Japan Ministry of Defense (JMoD)**. The contract only runs through March 31, 2026, though, so I’m guessing that this is a bridge contract until [JMoD has its own SAR constellation](https://www.japanearthobserver.com/jeo-5-jmod-goes-shopping/#jmod-satellite-infrastructure-investments). - **Tenchijin** won [second place at the IVS2025 Launchpad startup pitch event](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ZlovKHZDL40&t=7823s&ref=japanearthobserver.com) \[YouTube\] in July for its Water Bureau in Space (宇宙の水道局). While Japan has some of the safest water in the world, aging infrastructure is leading to both an increase in sinkholes and leaks that endanger water quality. The Tenchijin product uses satellite imagery to assign a risk value for underground water pipe leaks in order to help water utilities prioritize their pipe inspections. They already have more than 40 customers and inquiries from 9 other countries and are aiming to IPO by 2028 and use the resulting capital to build their own high resolution satellite constellation.Tenchijin is designated as a “JAXA Startup” as it has received investment directly from JAXA. - *Why does this matter?* Satellite imagery sometimes feels like a technology looking for a problem to solve. This water infrastructure management product represents an innovative way to solve hard problems that affect urban infrastructure today while also addressing the steep labor force and demographic challenges Japan faces. - **Pale Blue**, a water propulsion startup, [received an equity investment](https://www.mitsubishielectric.com/en/pr/2025/0807/?ref=japanearthobserver.com) from **Mitsubishi Electric’s** ME Innovation Fund. The new investment will enable Pale Blue to improve its production and quality control systems. Pale Blue is a spinout from Tokyo University. - *Why does this matter?* By using water vapor as the propellant, the in-orbit propulsion system has a safer, lower cost, and more sustainable engine. - **Interstellar** has signed a [three-way alliance](https://www.istellartech.com/en%5Fnews/10168?ref=japanearthobserver.com) with **Toyota Motor** and **Woven by Toyota** (WbyT) aimed at strengthening its manufacturing capacity, with particular attention on the COSMOS engine, the turbopup, propellant tanks, and other components. The new alliance builds on multiple rounds of investment by WbyT, [most recently in January 2025](https://www.japanearthobserver.com/japan-earth-observer-2-the-curious-orbits-of-qzss/#news-announcements). ![01-interstellar-propellant-tank.jpg](https://storage.ghost.io/c/54/e9/54e9159b-1345-41dd-b7dd-180de33edc5b/content/images/2025/10/01-interstellar-propellant-tank.jpg) Interstellar propellant tank manufacturing process. Credit: Interstellar - **Interstellar** has [booked five satellite customers for the inaugural launch](https://payloadspace.com/interstellar-books-customers-for-its-first-zero-launch/?ref=japanearthobserver.com) of its Zero rocket expected in 2027\. The first launch of any new rocket is a high risk event, but if the initial launch is successful, these small satellites will enable Interstellar to quickly establish an initial launch heritage. Zero is the initial rocket being developed by Interstellar, and a follow-on rocket, Deca, will provide greater payload capacity. - **Axelspace** [went public on 13 August and closed up 80% at the end of the first day](https://asia.nikkei.com/business/markets/ipo/japan-microsatellite-startup-axelspace-skyrockets-in-tokyo-ipo?ref=japanearthobserver.com). Axelspace was spun out from Tokyo University in 2008 and has been operating privately since then. It is the fifth space-based IPO over the past few years. The firm already operates five micro-satellites and is aiming to have seven more launched next year with a total of fourteen by May 2028. - **Sumitomo**, the Japanese trading and investment conglomerate, [made a strategic investment in Ursa Space Systems](https://ursaspace.com/blog/sumitomo-corporation-invests-in-ursa-space-to-accelerate-global-growth-and-expand-into-japan/?ref=japanearthobserver.com), a US satellite imagery analytics firm. The investment will fund expansion into the Japanese and broader Asia market as well as support development of new capabilities. Ursa already has data partnerships with other Japanese firms, including PASCO, iQPS, and Synspective. It’s also not the first such investment in geospatial data analysis capabilities with similar past investments by **Mitsui** in Spire in 2019 and **Itochu** in Orbital Insight in 2017. - **JAXA** has [posted the 13th Space Exploration Innovation RFP](https://www.ihub-tansa.jaxa.jp/rfp/rfp13/index.html?ref=japanearthobserver.com). This research program is over 10 years old and is organized into three funding structures with 12 topics around four themes: next generation energy, next generation mobility, assembly and manufacturing, and habitation. Proposals are due Sept 16, 12p JST. There is a [briefing video on YouTube](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=CgSPjB%5FbTXk&ref=japanearthobserver.com). ### 🛰️ Technology and Infrastructure - **iQPS** [launched its third SAR satellite in as many months](https://www.space.com/space-exploration/launches-spacecraft/rocket-lab-launches-japanese-earth-observing-radar-satellite-to-orbit?ref=japanearthobserver.com) \[Space.com\] on a RocketLab launcher on 11 June from its New Zealand launch complex to a 575km, 42° mid-inclination orbit. RocketLab then [launched a fourth SAR satellite](https://www.space.com/space-exploration/launches-spacecraft/rocket-lab-launch-private-japanese-radar-satellite-iqps-harvest-god-thrives?ref=japanearthobserver.com) \[Space.com\] on 5 August to a similar 575km orbit. iQPS is continuing to build out a 24-satellite constellation by 2027 and has booked two more launches in 2025 and two in 2026. - **Honda** [successfully launched and landed a small reusable rocket from its Hokkaido research center](https://asia.nikkei.com/Business/Aerospace-Defense-Industries/Honda-successfully-launches-and-lands-reusable-rocket?ref=japanearthobserver.com) \[Nikkei Asia\]. The 6.3m, 900kg rocket flew 300m and then landed within 37 cm of its target area. Honda started a space R&D unit in 2019, and it is aiming to build a fully reusable rocket that is capable of launching satellites into orbit. - *Why does this matter?* While Honda is not usually associated with space technology, their long-running work on engines, fuel cells, and robotics represents a deep stack of technology that has applications in orbit and on the moon. ![02-honda-rocket-landing.png](https://storage.ghost.io/c/54/e9/54e9159b-1345-41dd-b7dd-180de33edc5b/content/images/2025/10/02-honda-rocket-landing.png) Honda’s first reusable test rocket lands successfully in Hokkaido. Credit: Honda - **Axelspace** [successfully launched its GRUS-3α](https://www.axelspace.com/news/grus-3a-launch/?ref=japanearthobserver.com) on the 23 June SpaceX Transporter-14 rideshare launch. The microsat successfully reached orbit and Axelspace has made contact. This is a pathfinder vehicle that will precede multiple GRUS-3 satellites planned for 2026. ![03-axelspace-grus-3α-alpha.png](https://storage.ghost.io/c/54/e9/54e9159b-1345-41dd-b7dd-180de33edc5b/content/images/2025/10/03-axelspace-grus-3---alpha.png) - **Ispace’s** [initial assessment of the lunar crash of the Hakuto-R lander](https://spacenews.com/laser-rangefinder-problems-blamed-for-second-ispace-lunar-lander-crash/?ref=japanearthobserver.com) \[SpaceNews\] suggests that a failure in the laser range finder led to a delay in the deceleration engine burn and the spacecraft arriving at the surface at high speed. They plan several changes for future landers, including expanding testing of sensors, integrating multiple sensors to provide redundancy, forming a new external review board that will include former engineers from NASA and JAXA, and closer collaboration with JAXA on technical matters. [In interview with Nikkei Asia, CEO Hakamada Takeshi](https://asia.nikkei.com/Editor-s-Picks/Interview/Japan-s-ispace-envisions-profitable-lunar-missions-despite-setbacks-CEO?ref=japanearthobserver.com), emphasized a number of changes for future missions: - Payload increases to 500kg in order to make future missions profitable - Mission 3 will carry a NASA payload under the CLPS program - Mission 4 will be supported with financial assistance from the METI SBIR program - Missions 5 and 6 are planned for 2028 with customers to be determined this year - ispace plans to differentiate itself from other lunar transport providers with technology that enables survival of the two-week lunar night ![04-ispace-lander-crash-nasa-ispace.png](https://storage.ghost.io/c/54/e9/54e9159b-1345-41dd-b7dd-180de33edc5b/content/images/2025/10/04-ispace-lander-crash-nasa-ispace.png) Likely location of RESILIENCE lander’s crash based on NASA’s Lunar Reconnaissance Orbiter (LRO). Credit: NASA/ispace - **SoftBank** expects to be able to [fly airships as high altitude platform stations (HAPS)](https://asia.nikkei.com/Business/Telecommunication/SoftBank-to-use-airships-for-disaster-network-coverage-from-2027?ref=japanearthobserver.com) \[Nikkei Asia\] by 2027\. Developed by U.S. firm [Sceye](https://sceye.com/?ref=japanearthobserver.com), the 65m airships will be able to provide telecom services over 200 km areas during large-scale disasters. - *Why does this matter?* Loss of network function was a key challenge in the response to the Noto Peninsula Earthquake in January 2024\. NTT Docomo is also pursuing a HAPS initiative with Airbus Aalto subsidiary. - **Astroscale**’s France subsidiary has [opened a new headquarters and R&D facility in Toulouse](https://astroscale.com/astroscale-france-opens-new-office-in-toulouse-to-advance-french-and-european-sovereignty-in-space/?ref=japanearthobserver.com). The France outpost now has more than 30 staff focused on guidance, navigation, and control expertise. - **JAXA’s** [50th and final H-2A rocket lifted off from Tanegashima on 29 June](https://www.space.com/space-exploration/launches-spacecraft/japan-launching-of-gosat-gw-on-50th-and-final-liftoff-of-the-h-2a-rocket?ref=japanearthobserver.com) \[Space.com\] at 1:33am carrying the GOSAT-GW climate observation satellite. The 2.6 ton, 23 meter GOSAT-GW, which now bears the nickname of Ibuki-GW (いぶき-GW), was released into the planned low-Earth orbit of 666 km. The new satellite carries two instruments: TANSO-3 for observing greenhouse gases and AMSR3 for observing the water cycle. - *Why does this matter?* The H-2A was a very reliable rocket, only failing once in 50 launches, but it was expensive to build and will now be replaced by the H3 model, which aims to halve the cost and increase the launch cadence. - Japanese textile manufacturer, **SEIREN (セーレン株式会社)**, [released the first images from the hyperspectral micro-satellite](https://asia.nikkei.com/Business/Science/Japan-firm-photographs-Earth-with-microsatellite?ref=japanearthobserver.com) \[Nikkei Asia\] that it launched in January. The FUSION-1 satellite is only 30 cm long and 10 cm wide but is able to capture hyperspectral images with a 23 cm resolution. The 3U cubesat actually has [four cameras jammed into the small spacecraft](https://www.seiren.com/news/2025-06-3002.html?ref=japanearthobserver.com): a video camera (NanCam), a wide area video camera (WanCam), a medium resolution camera (MRCam) and the hyperspectral instrument (M-HypCam). The satellite was developed in collaboration with **Fukui University**, **Fukui Institute of Technology,** and **Fukui TV**. You can follow the future adventures of the micro-sat at its [Twitter/X feed](https://x.com/FUSIONpFUSION1?ref=japanearthobserver.com). The satellite is mostly using a Fukui-based ground station, which will limit how much data it can send to the ground. - \*Why does this matter?\*This seems like a technology demonstrator, rather than a constellation threat to the Pixxel and Planet Labs Tanager systems. Still, it’s impressive that a 136 year old, mid-sized textile manufacturer is building, launching, and operating a hyperspectral satellite in the name of diversification and regional economic development. That was not on my bingo card for 2025. ![05-seiren-hyperspectral.jpg](https://storage.ghost.io/c/54/e9/54e9159b-1345-41dd-b7dd-180de33edc5b/content/images/2025/10/05-seiren-hyperspectral.jpg) Early imagery output from Seiren’s 3U cubesat’s hyperspectral imager. Credit: Seiren. - The 46th **National Model Rocket Challenge** was held at the end of May. Sponsored by JAXA and Ministry of Education, Culture, Sports, Science and Technology (MEXT 文部科学省) with funding from Lockheed Martin, this year’s competition attracted almost 200 participants forming 52 teams. Awards were given for both [individuals and teams in two categories](https://jar.or.jp/nationalcompetition/46th-result/?ref=japanearthobserver.com): parachute descent hang time and streamer descent hang time. - A test version of a rocket launched by the Japan subsidiary, **jtSpace,** of the Taiwan rocket developer, TiSpace, [failed to reach its target 100km height](https://asia.nikkei.com/Business/Science/Taiwan-rocket-crashes-in-Japan-s-1st-launch-backed-by-foreign-capital?ref=japanearthobserver.com) \[Nikkei Asia\]. The VP01 rocket was launched from the Hokkaido Spaceport on 12 July. The first stage operated as expected, but the second stage failed after separation and was terminated. - *Why does this matter?* This is the first attempted launch by a non-Japanese spaceflight operator. While it wasn’t successful, it is a demonstration of Japanese spaceport operators’ commitment to attracting an international clientele. - **Astroscale** [will use test facilities at the Goddard Space Flight Center (GSFC)](https://news.satnews.com/2025/07/20/astroscale-u-s-signs-space-act-agreement-with-nasa-to-advance-national-security-on-orbit-servicing-capabilities/?ref=japanearthobserver.com) \[SatNews\] to test its Refueler in preparation for two refueling missions planned for the U.S. Space Force. The testing will focus on complex rendezvous and docking maneuvers and is expected to be completed in August 2025. - A new variant of **JAXA’s H3 rocket** [successfully completed a first stage static fire test](https://japannews.yomiuri.co.jp/science-nature/technology/20250724-271622/?ref=japanearthobserver.com). The “Type 30” variant has 3 LE-9 engines, rather than two, but has no strap-on, solid rocket boosters. - The **Japan Coast Guard** is going to [outfit its large patrol ships with SpaceX Starlink terminals](https://asia.nikkei.com/politics/defense/japan-coast-guard-to-adopt-starlink-satellite-service?ref=japanearthobserver.com) \[Nikkei Asia\]. In JEO 5, I wrote about a [similar plan for the Maritime Self-Defense Force](https://www.japanearthobserver.com/jeo-5-jmod-goes-shopping/#jmod-satellite-infrastructure-investments) (MSDF - what most countries call "the Navy") that will likely put Starlink on MSDF vessels 2024 - 2026\. The Coast Guard will have 66 of its large patrol vessels equipped with Starlink in FY2025 and another 16 equipped in FY 2026\. The installation process will include the introduction of enhanced encryption capabilities and cybersecurity research. - *Why does this matter?* As Japan's Coast Guard faces increasing encounters with Chinese vessels around the Senkaku and other islands in the chain between Japan and Taiwan, the government has been investing in upgrades to the capabilities of its ships and better communications is part of that investment. - **NYK Line (日本郵船)** has [passed initial regulatory approval for a sea-based rocket recovery system](https://asia.nikkei.com/Business/Transportation/Japan-s-NYK-Line-moves-forward-with-sea-based-rocket-recovery-plan?ref=japanearthobserver.com) \[Nikkei Asia\]. NYK is working with Mitsubishi Heavy Industries on the concept, which will involve two ships operating 1,000km from land: one ship will be the uncrewed landing vessel and the second will be a crewed command vessel. Field testing is currently planned for 2028\. Funding to develop the concept will come from the [JAXA Space Strategy Fund](https://www.japanearthobserver.com/jeo-3-japans-space-strategy-fund/#japans-space-strategy-fund-space-industrial-policy-at-scale). ![06-nyk-line-ship-landing-pad-concept.png](https://storage.ghost.io/c/54/e9/54e9159b-1345-41dd-b7dd-180de33edc5b/content/images/2025/10/06-nyk-line-ship-landing-pad-concept.png) Concept image for NYK Line rocket landing pad. Source: NYK Line ### 🔭 Science - **JAXA** and ESA [X-ray telescope collaboration has identified vast tendrils of super-heated matter](https://www.space.com/astronomy/astronomers-turn-up-missing-matter-in-the-largest-structures-in-the-cosmos-the-models-were-right?ref=japanearthobserver.com) \[Space.com\] stretching between galaxies. The newly discovered intergalactic structures may represent the “missing matter” that physicists have sought to match cosmological models. The research combined data from the JAXA [Suzaku](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Suzaku%5F%28satellite%29?ref=japanearthobserver.com) observatory (which was deactivated in 2015 after a 10-year observation period) with the ESA [XMM-Newton](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/XMM-Newton?ref=japanearthobserver.com) instrument, a particularly long-lived satellite launched in 1999 with a planned 10-year lifespan and has been operating for more than 25 years. - **University of Tokyo** researchers have [developed a significant advance in the durability of Sodium-ion batteries](https://roboticsandautomationnews.com/2025/07/17/tokyo-university-scientists-discover-key-to-stable-high-performance-and-long-life-sodium-ion-batteries/93152/?ref=japanearthobserver.com) \[Robotics and Automation News\]. This is not, strictly speaking, a geospatial or space item, but battery technology affects energy systems, satellites, spacecraft, drones, and a broad array of contemporary technologies. More sustainable and durable batteries are a big deal. - X-ray imaging of samples from the **Hayabusa2** asteroid return mission has [generated new knowledge about the early conditions of planetary formation](https://www.space.com/astronomy/asteroids/scientists-discover-minerals-in-asteroid-ryugu-that-are-older-than-earth-itself?ref=japanearthobserver.com) in the solar system. Brookhaven National Laboratory performed the analysis on grains from the surface and subsurface of the Ryugu asteroid visited by the Hayabusa2 probe in June 2018 and returned to Earth in December 2020. ![07-ryugyu-xray-image.jpg](https://storage.ghost.io/c/54/e9/54e9159b-1345-41dd-b7dd-180de33edc5b/content/images/2025/10/07-ryugyu-xray-image.jpg) X-ray imaging of a grain from Ryugu asteroid showing ancient minerals. Credit: Brookhaven National Laboratory - **Hayabusa2** samples from asteroid Ryugu yielded some additional science in September when a team led by **University of Tokyo** researcher, Iizuka Tsuyoshi, released the results of [isotope analysis suggesting that the main asteroid body from which Ryugu broke off had far more water and for far longer](https://www.space.com/astronomy/asteroids/scientists-find-evidence-of-flowing-water-on-ryugus-ancient-parent-asteroid-it-was-a-genuine-surprise?ref=japanearthobserver.com) than expected. - *Why does this matter?* Because most of the water on Earth is thought to have arrived via asteroid collisions, this may change our understanding about the composition of Earth’s early oceans and atmosphere. Next steps for the research team will be to compare their results against samples returned by the NASA OSIRIS-REs mission from asteroid Bennu. ![08-ryugu-isotopes-water.jpg](https://storage.ghost.io/c/54/e9/54e9159b-1345-41dd-b7dd-180de33edc5b/content/images/2025/10/08-ryugu-isotopes-water.jpg) Diagram of how the research team thinks Ryugu evolved over time. Credit: Iizuka, et al, 2025 ### 🗺️ International Collaborations - **JAXA** and the **Philippines Space Agency (PhilSA)** have [signed an agreement to collaborate on the use of space assets](https://www.gmanetwork.com/news/topstories/nation/950121/ph-japan-space-agencies-work-together-for-filipinos-philsa-jaxa/story/?ref=japanearthobserver.com) \[GMA News\] for improving severe weather forecasting and disaster response. - **Japan** and the **EU** will [collaborate to build a shared communications satellite constellation in order to reduce reliance on the U.S \[Nikkei Asia\].](https://asia.nikkei.com/Business/Aerospace-Defense-Industries/Japan-and-EU-envision-satellite-network-to-cut-reliance-on-US-SpaceX?ref=japanearthobserver.com) - *Why does this matter?* The Trump administration's punitive tariffs against long-time allies, combined with Elon Musk’s threat to cut off Ukraine’s access to the Starlink satellite communications service have already had far reaching consequences. Asia Pacific countries are rapidly working to develop trade and defense ties with each other as well as with Europe and Canada in order to reduce the degree to which the U.S. will be able to wield trade and technology as weapons. - The **Australia Space Agency (ASA)** is [inviting Australian researchers to submit proposals for supporting **JAXA’s MMX mission**](https://consult.industry.gov.au/australian-capabilities-to-support-the-mmx-mission-rfi?ref=japanearthobserver.com) to the Phobos moon of Mars. - The **Japan Cabinet Office** (内閣府) is [convening a panel of experts in order to develop proposed guidelines and procedures for clearing orbital debris](https://japantoday.com/category/national/japan-seeks-to-create-int'l-rules-on-space-debris-removal?ref=japanearthobserver.com) \[Japan Today\]. The results will be used to lead global discussions on space debris planned for the 2026 meeting of the UN Committee on Peaceful Uses of Outer Space (COPUOS). - *Why does this matter?* There is already a lot of debris in orbit and the volume is growing rapidly, particularly in low Earth orbit. Astroscale has emerged as a leader in approach, rendezvous, and servicing of satellites and derelict rocket components, and Japan sees an opportunity to lead in the development of standardized procedures and information sharing. International standards development is an industrial policy playbook that Japan has used successfully in the past. [Aerial drone traffic management](https://www.nttdata.com/global/en/news/press-release/2023/june/new-international-standard-for-drone-traffic-management-systems?ref=japanearthobserver.com) is a recent example of an ISO standard developed by **Hitachi**, **NTT Data**, **NEC** and **NEDO**. The core developers of a standard obviously have a leg up implementing hardware and software that will support the standard. Orbital traffic and debris management are ripe for this type of treatment. - **JAXA** and **ISRO** have [formalized their plans to collaborate on the Chandrayan-5 lunar mission](https://www.theweek.in/news/sci-tech/2025/08/30/india-and-japan-join-hands-for-chandrayaan-5-moon-mission-all-you-need-to-know.html%20?ref=japanearthobserver.com) \[The Week\] during a visit to Japan by Prime Minister Narendra Modi in August. Also known as LUPEX, the Chadrayan-5 lander will be lofted by a JAXA H3-24L heavy lift configuration. ISRO will build the lander, which will sport sensors from ISRO, NASA, ESA, and JAXA aimed at finding ice in the south pole regions of the moon. ## 📆 Asia-Pacific Conferences & Events This newsletter is mostly focused on Japan, but I also like to highlight events across the Asia-Pacific region. Some upcoming conferences in 2025 include: **Oct 2025** - [Asia-Pacific International Symposium on Aerospace Technology](https://apisat2025.org/?ref=japanearthobserver.com) \- 27 - 29 Oct - Seoul, South Korea - [International Congress of Aviation and Space Medicine (ICASM)](https://icasm2025.com/?ref=japanearthobserver.com) \- 27 - 30 Oct - Singapore - [International Symposium on Antennas and Propagation (ISAP)](https://www.isap2025.org/?ref=japanearthobserver.com) \- 27 - 31 Oct - Fukuoka, Japan - [IEEE International Conference on Space Optical Systems and Applications (ICSOS)](https://icsos2025.ieee-icsos.org/?ref=japanearthobserver.com) 2025 - 28 - 31 Oct - Kyoto, Japan - [Nihonbashi Space Week](https://www.crossu.org/spaceweek/?ref=japanearthobserver.com) \- 28 - 31 Oct - Nihonbashi, Tokyo, Japan - [19th Annual Meeting of International Committee on Global Navigation Satellite Systems (ICG)](https://www.unoosa.org/oosa/en/ourwork/icg/meetings/ICG-2025.html?ref=japanearthobserver.com) \- 19 - 24 Oct - South Korea **Nov 2025** - [Asia-Pacific Satellite and Space Community Conference (APSCC)](https://apsccsat.com/?ref=japanearthobserver.com) \- 4 - 6 Nov - Taipei, Taiwan - [Free and Open Source for Geospatial (FOSS4G)](https://2025.foss4g.org/?ref=japanearthobserver.com) \- 17 - 23 Nov - Auckland, New Zealand - [Asia-Pacific Regional Space Agency Forum (APRSAF)](https://www.aprsaf.org/annual%5Fmeetings/aprsaf31/meeting%5Fdetails.php?ref=japanearthobserver.com) \- 18 - 21 Nov - Cebu Island, Philippines - [69th Space Science and Technology Conference (宇宙科学技術連合講演会)](https://smartconf.jp/content/sstc69/?ref=japanearthobserver.com) \- 25 - 28 Nov - Sapporo, Japan - [FOSS4G Shinshu 2025](https://www.osgeo.jp/archives/4633?ref=japanearthobserver.com) \- 29 - 30 Nov - Shinshu University, Ina, Nagano, Japan **Dec 2025** - [International Conference on Space Robotics (iSpaRo)](https://www.isparo.space/?ref=japanearthobserver.com) \- 1 - 4 Dec - Sendai, Japan - [GeoSmart India](https://geospatialworld.net/gsi/2025/?ref=japanearthobserver.com) \- 2 - 4 Dec - New Delhi, India - [State of the Map Japan 2025](https://stateofthemap.jp/2025/?ref=japanearthobserver.com) \- 6 Dec - Osaka University, Osaka, Japan - [Airspace Asia Pacific](https://airspaceasiapacific.com/?ref=japanearthobserver.com) \- 9 - 11 Dec - Hong Kong, China - [IEEE India Geoscience and Remote Sensing Symposium (InGARSS)](https://www.ingarss-2025.in/?ref=japanearthobserver.com) \- 10 - 13 Dec - Bhubaneswar, Odisha, India - [IEEE Communications, Networks, and Satellite (COMNETSAT)](https://www.spaceagenda.com/event/ieee-comnetsat-2025/?ref=japanearthobserver.com) \- 11 - 13 Dec - Padang, Indonesia #### Other recent videos - Post-launch GOSAT-GW [Press Conference](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=vH3cRofq2Uw%20&ref=japanearthobserver.com)\- 29 June 2025 - JAXA Space Strategy Fund Year 2 topic briefings - [Solicitation Introduction](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=%5FDECYM1mZ5U&ref=japanearthobserver.com) \- 30 May - Topic: [Development of rocket components to increase launch frequency](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=B%5Fu4HsdtKMg&ref=japanearthobserver.com) \- 30 May - Topic: [Feasibility studies on development and manufacturing of satellite buses and optical communication terminals for satellite optical communication](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Ddl6w54QXpM&ref=japanearthobserver.com) \- 30 May - Topic: [Foundational technologies for construction of lunar infrastructure](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=t97OGQo6qxA&ref=japanearthobserver.com) \- 30 May - Topic: [Rocket manufacturing processes for high-frequency launches](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=451BHUQqZ1Y&ref=japanearthobserver.com) \- 23 June - Topic: [Advanced technologies for accelerating the use of Earth environmental satellite data](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=QEMWXZe4oc8&ref=japanearthobserver.com) \- June 23 - Topic: [High-frequency material recovery systems](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=rXIXg2K5VdQ&ref=japanearthobserver.com) \- 23 June - Topic: [Technologies for flexible use of space](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ySkYKTw32js&ref=japanearthobserver.com) \- 9 July - Topic: [R&D and demonstrations for data relay services using satellite optical communications](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ngAE0mvDXWE&ref=japanearthobserver.com) \- 9 July - Topic: [Technologies for efficient extravehicular activity](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=f8mFyfz5o90&ref=japanearthobserver.com) \- 9 July - Topic: [Accelerating implementation of satellite data usage](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=reRWjaclspU&ref=japanearthobserver.com) \- 17 July - Topic: [Development of terminal interconnection technology for optical satellite communications](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=v8tTspp5qOg&ref=japanearthobserver.com) \- 17 July - Topic: [Development and demonstration of internationally competitive communications payload technologies](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=W5bnzeUp3Wc&ref=japanearthobserver.com) \- 17 July - Topic: [Orbital data center construction technology](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=lqP2j8IqxpY&ref=japanearthobserver.com) \- 31 July - Topic: [High-precision landing technologies for lunar polar regions](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=LPU0Njf99Nw&ref=japanearthobserver.com) \- 31 July - Topic: [Feasibility studies on launch site facilities upgrades contributing to high-frequency launches](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=-2demsWpnQ4&ref=japanearthobserver.com) \- 31 July - Topic: [Foundational technologies for ensuring safety in crewed space transportation systems](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=lk75s9vB8aY&ref=japanearthobserver.com) \- 19 Aug - Topic: [Innovative satellite mission technology demonstration support](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=TIlBY9396Hk&ref=japanearthobserver.com) \- 19 Aug - Topic: [Technologies for enhancing capabilities of next-generation Earth observation satellites](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=iF7mB2TCcAo&ref=japanearthobserver.com) \- 19 Aug - Topic: [Technologies for enhancing spacecraft mobility](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=RXXgSC5Ahog&ref=japanearthobserver.com) \- 19 Aug - Topic: [SX Center for Research and Engineering (SX-CRANE)](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=UhaK3nPJU0o&ref=japanearthobserver.com) \- a research center for incubating space spin-offs and new industries - 19 Aug - Topic: [System technology for smart launch sites](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=0H7HuLZBB64&ref=japanearthobserver.com) \- 3 Sept - Topic: [Development and demonstration of frequency sharing technologies for integrated operation of satellite and terrestrial networks](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=jEU9t19Fmno&ref=japanearthobserver.com) \- 3 Sept - Topic: [Solving environmental testing challenges for spacecraft](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=c-c-laS0Hew&ref=japanearthobserver.com) \- 3 Sept - Topic: [SX Core Area Development Research "SX-ARK"](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=leVmlsTYDMM&ref=japanearthobserver.com) \- 24 Sept ![09-htvx-1-h3-patch-jaxa.png](https://storage.ghost.io/c/54/e9/54e9159b-1345-41dd-b7dd-180de33edc5b/content/images/2025/10/09-htvx-1-h3-patch-jaxa.png) # The HTV-X Cargo Freighter and the LEO Supply Chain The ISS will celebrate its 25th anniversary in November this year. That’s twenty-five years of sustained human presence in low Earth orbit. For a generation of young Earthlings, there has never been a time when humans have not been living in orbit. That is not just a milestone in its own right, the ISS has been an underappreciated example of international cooperation (except for the part about the U.S. Congress passing a law banning Chinese taikonauts from visiting) with Russian, ESA, NASA, Japanese and other astronauts living and working together, even after Russia’s invasion of Ukraine. And those astronauts have not been hanging out up there. In addition to the hard work of just living in microgravity (astronauts are supposed to do at least 2.5 hours a day of exercise), they are building, maintaining, and enhancing the structure as well as doing a lot of science. With more than 4,400 scientific papers published through 2025, it sits alongside the CERN’s Large Hadron Collider as one of the most successful scientific collaborations in human history. The ISS construction effort was a collaborative venture. The United States, Europe, Japan, and Russia all contributed modules and components to the structure with 90% being carried up by the 36 flights of the Space Shuttle. However, while major construction was completed in 2009, it is not a closed ecosystem. In addition to ferrying people to and from orbit, food, supplies, experiments, and equipment need to be hauled up the gravity well to the ISS’s 400 km orbit. Likewise, garbage, busted or unneeded equipment, and other refuse needs to be sent back down to Earth (there is already a lot of debris in orbit, so shoving the trash out an airlock is not an option). The various ISS partners - ESA, JAXA, NASA, and Russia - have a sort of charming barter system, called the ISS Common System Operations Cost (CSOC) framework, whereby each partner contributes to the overall effort in proportion to the number of astronauts hosted on the ISS. The various contributions often boil down to moving freight and people up and down the gravity well. When it became clear that the Space Shuttle was not as safe as originally expected and with its retirement in 2011, another solution for crew, cargo, and waste haulage became necessary. In the immediate aftermath of the Shuttle’s retirement, all of the partners relied on Russia’s Soyuz rockets for ferrying people to the ISS. This was seen as a rather awkward situation by NASA, ESA, and JAXA, and significant investment was made to develop alternatives. For moving human crew back and forth, NASA bet on two companies, SpaceX and Boeing. Boeing had a significant head start to build the CST-100 Starliner as well as substantially more experience, but SpaceX developed its Crew Dragon spacecraft far more rapidly and has now launched and returned 11 NASA crews and 4 more private commercial crews. Boeing has only managed to launch one and that one was fraught with technical glitches. Roscosmos (Russia) fly crew to the ISS on the Soyuz spacecraft. ESA and JAXA have not developed a human-rated crew launch capacity. Cargo was the other priority, and many more cargo missions are required to sustain the ISS. so it requires regular trips. Similar to the construction process, each of the partners has contributed cargo missions: - **NASA cargo flights** \- Similar to a crew transport, NASA bet on three companies for a cargo hauler: SpaceX, Northrop Grumman, and Sierra Space. Again SpaceX was the first to fill the need, and it has since launched 33 cargo missions to the ISS thus far. The second option, Cygnus, was developed by Orbital Sciences, Northrop Grumman, and Thales Alenia for launch on the Antares, Atlas V, and Falcon 9 rockets. A new XL-sized version, Cygnus XL, just had its maiden voyage in September. - **ESA cargo flights** \- ESA developed the Automated Transfer Vehicle (ATV) for cargo launch contributions and sent five missions atop Ariane 5 rockets from 2008 to 2014\. With the retirement of the Ariane 5 and a slow ramp-up of Ariane 6 launches, ESA recently issued an RFP to purchase a cargo transport flight to the ISS. While this ESA RFP is ostensibly a request for proposals, there may only be one response. NASA rules require that these solicitations be open to United States firms, but ESA would much prefer a solution that is made in Europe, and a 5,000 kg cargo requirement will likely narrow the pool significantly. A SpaceX Cargo Dragon can only launch 3,300 kg to the ISS, so two trips would be required to meet ESA's mass requirements. ESA is supporting development of a new pair of LEO cargo spacecraft (Argo and NYX) and Phase 1 efforts are underway. However, both nascent spacecraft are still in early phases and are unlikely to be in production and certified with the necessary cargo capacity for a 2028 launch. So the Cygnus-XL, with 5,000 kg capacity, would seem to be the only viable option. And, lo and behold, the pressurized cargo module of the Cygnus is manufactured by Thales Alenia in Europe, so that will make the ESA members happy. - **Roscosmos cargo flights** \- Russia’s cargo resupply vessel is the venerable Progress spacecraft and is derived from the Soyuz crewed vehicle The Progress has been through several iterations since its maiden flight in 1978, transporting supplies to Salyut-6, Salyut-7, Mir, and the ISS. The current version, Progress-MS, has been flying since 2015 and has a capacity of 2,230kg. Russia has launched [185 Progress cargo flights](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/List%5Fof%5FProgress%5Fmissions?ref=japanearthobserver.com) since the program’s inception with almost 100 of those flights going to the ISS. Progress vehicles also play a critical role in maintaining the ISS orbit as they can carry extra fuel to boost its orbit in order to counteract ongoing orbital decay. - **JAXA cargo flights** \- Japan’s cargo contributions have historically been fulfilled with the [H-II Transfer Vehicle (HTV)](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/H-II%5FTransfer%5FVehicle?ref=japanearthobserver.com), also known as Kounotori (こうのとり). The HTV flew atop the H-IIB rocket nine times from 2009 to 2020\. This cargo spacecraft has played a critical role supplying the ISS, particularly after the Space Shuttle’s retirement, when it became the only cargo vehicle that could carry and transfer [International Standard Payload Rack (ISPR)](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/International%5FStandard%5FPayload%5FRack?ref=japanearthobserver.com), a standardized, metal-framed container for transporting machinery and experiments to the ISS. With the H-IIB rocket’s planned retirement and its replacement by the H3, in 2015 JAXA began developing a new cargo vehicle: the HTV-X. Formally known as the New Space Station Resupply Vehicle (新型宇宙ステーション補給機), the HTV-X has been redesigned to not only use the newer H3 rocket but to increase the cargo capacity by 50% to 6 tons. ![10-unmanned-resupply-spacecraft-comparison-wikipedia-commons.png](https://storage.ghost.io/c/54/e9/54e9159b-1345-41dd-b7dd-180de33edc5b/content/images/2025/10/10-unmanned-resupply-spacecraft-comparison-wikipedia-commons.png) *Various cargo spacecraft designs with pressured cargo (red), fuel (blue), and unpressurized cargo modules. Credit: Wikimedia Commons (user: Craigboy) - CC BY-SA 3.0* ## What is the HTV-X and why was it necessary? Japan already had a successful, flight-tested cargo vehicle, so why would it need a new one? There is usually a tight integration between a rocket launch vehicle and the cargo it can carry on top. With the retirement of JAXA’s H-IIB rocket and the introduction of H3, the rocket would have new engines, new dimensions, and new capabilities, and at a minimum, it would be necessary to adapt the HTV if not completely rework the design. JAXA elected to do the latter. The overall HTV-X development team was similar to the HTV and included **Mitsubishi Heavy Industries** (pressurized module and rocket integration), **Mitsubishi Electric** (service module), **IHI Aerospace** (propulsion systems), and American firm, Sierra Nevada (Common Berthing Mechanism and hatch kit). The HTV-X design included a number of key objectives: - Increase both weight and volume of cargo capacity - Increase electricity generation capacity proportionally - Reduce cost (this objective is shared with the H3 rocket as well) - Enable late access to the pressurized cargo space in order to support last-minute additions of perishable food or experiment contents - Support additional technology experiments after unberthing from the ISS - Anticipate future needs for the Lunar Gateway and commercial space stations While I cannot really assess the cost reduction goal, at a technical level the HTV-X has delivered on all of the other objectives. Combining a pressurized (4,070 kg) cargo module and an “exposed” or unpressured module (1,750 kg) the total payload capacity is 5,820 kg, approximately a 50% increase over HTV as well as a 60% cargo volume capacity. WIth larger and more efficient solar panels, the electricity generation capacity was also increased by 50%. Other than Cygnus, none of the cargo spacecraft to the ISS are able to generate their own electricity so they have to run on batteries while they are in transit to the ISS. HTV-X can generate 1 kW of power with two large solar panels that are extended after separation from its boosters. While the spacecraft also carries 3 kW of batteries, the ability to generate electricity enables it to carry more cargo that needs to maintain consistent temperature or has other power requirements. The solar panels will also enable it to carry out the follow-on experiments after it is unberthed from the ISS. ![11-htvx-spacecraft-jaxa.png](https://storage.ghost.io/c/54/e9/54e9159b-1345-41dd-b7dd-180de33edc5b/content/images/2025/10/11-htvx-spacecraft-jaxa.png) *HTV-X1 concept image. Credit: JAXA* Mitsubishi Heavy Industries and Mitsubishi Electric are the primary system integrators but the supply chain is extensive. JAXA has highlighted a few of them in a [press conference during the summer](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=i0qmQn5SapM&ref=japanearthobserver.com) \[YouTube\] and the following table summarizes the key firms involved: **Pressurized Module (与圧モジュール)** | **Role/Component** | **Company** | | --------------------------------------------- | -------------------------------------- | | Primary integrator | Mitsubishi Heavy Industries (三菱重工業) | | Controls Devices (制御装置) | Mitsubishi Precision (三菱プレシジョン) | | Machining of the main structure (主構造の機械加工) | Hikari Manufacturing (光製作所) | | Soundproofing (防音装置) | Sasakura AE (ササクラ・エーイー) | | Cargo loading racks (カーゴ搭載ラック) | IHI Aerospace (IHIエアロスペース) | | Air ducting (空調ダクト) | Yasojima Proceed (八十島プロシード) | | Communications processing controls (通信変換処理装置) | AES (エー・イー・エス) | | Operations preparation (運用準備) | Space Engineering Development (宇宙技術開発) | **Service Module and Exposed Cargo (サービスモジュールと曝露カーゴ** | **Role/Component** | **Company** | | ----------------------------------------------------------------------------- | ------------------------------------------------------------------------- | | Primary integrator | Mitsubishi Electric (三菱電気) | | Propulsion, structure, exposed cargo, mounting component (推進系・構造系・曝露カーゴー・搭載部) | IHI Aerospace (IHIエアロスペース) | | Software & operational control system (運用管制システム) | Mitsubishi Electric Software (三菱電気ソフトウェア) | | Battery Module and Cells (電池モジュール／セル) | Mitsubishi Electric/GS Yuasa Technology (三菱電気/ＧＳユアサ) | | Structure (hexagonal structure) (構体) | Nippon Aircraft/Daiki Industries (日本飛行機・大起産業) | | Control devices and power supply (制御装置・電源機器) | Mitsubishi Electric Defense & Space Technologies(三菱電気ティフェンス＆スペース・テクノロジーズ) | | Relative Navigation Sensor (相対航法センサー) | Nippon Electric (日本電気) | | Monitor Camera (モニターカメラ) | MEISEI Electric (明星電気) | ![12-htvx-structure-jaxa.png](https://storage.ghost.io/c/54/e9/54e9159b-1345-41dd-b7dd-180de33edc5b/content/images/2025/10/12-htvx-structure-jaxa.png) *HTV-X specs, modules and components. Credit: JAXA* ## The Inaugural HTV-X1 Mission - All kinds of Firsts The HTV-X1 that launched on 26 October (Japan time) had a number of firsts. In addition to being the *first launch of the HTV-X spacecraft*, this 7th launch of the H3 rocket was the *first H3 in the H3-24W configuration*, which both adds 4 solid rocket boosters to increase lift capacity and uses a wide payload fairing to accommodate the larger HTV-X. The wide payload fairing is made from a different material from the usual one and instead of opening as a clamshell, it has to pop away in parallel from the rocket body. This alternative fairing material also doesn’t sink, so JAXA had a ship standing by to recover the two pieces. ![13-h3-configuration-options-jaxa.png](https://storage.ghost.io/c/54/e9/54e9159b-1345-41dd-b7dd-180de33edc5b/content/images/2025/10/13-h3-configuration-options-jaxa.png) *Diagram of the three H3 configurations based on number of engines, solid rocket boosters, and fairing size. Credit: JAXA* ![14-htvx-payload-fairing-differences.png](https://storage.ghost.io/c/54/e9/54e9159b-1345-41dd-b7dd-180de33edc5b/content/images/2025/10/14-htvx-payload-fairing-differences.png) *Size comparison between the usual H3 short fairing and the HTV-X wide/long fairing. Credit: JAXA* In addition to the hardware, this launch will be the *first test of an autonomous flight safety system* (自律飛行安全システム), an onboard software control system that will enable the rocket to continue flying on its own through second stage engine cutoff if communications with the ground is lost. This flight did not actually use the system, so data was collected to assess its effectiveness. This flight will also be the *first test of JAXA’s implementation of support for NASA’s [Tracking and Data Relay Satellite (TDRS) System](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Tracking%5Fand%5FData%5FRelay%5FSatellite%5FSystem?ref=japanearthobserver.com)*. The TDRS communications infrastructure extends the tracking and relay system from relying solely on ground stations by adding a constellation of data relay satellites in geosynchronous Earth orbit. The goal of TDRS is to increase the time that spacecraft are in communications with the ground and the amount of data that can be transferred. The TDRS is used extensively by NASA and the U.S. military for a range of systems, including the Hubble Space Telescope and Landsat satellites. JAXA has not used the TRDS in the past but with the MMX mission to Mars and future lunar missions, they anticipate needing this additional tracking and data capacity. However, while TDRS is actively used, NASA considers it a legacy system and is seeking to transition these functions to commercial communications satellites in the future. It is also worth noting that ESA ([EDRS](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/European%5FData%5FRelay%5FSystem?ref=japanearthobserver.com)), Russia ([Luch, Altair, or Gelios](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Luch%5F%28satellite%29?ref=japanearthobserver.com)), and China ([Tianlian, 天鏈, or SkyLink](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Tianlian?ref=japanearthobserver.com)) all operate their own data relay satellite constellations, and India is planning one as well ([IDRSS](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Indian%5FData%5FRelay%5FSatellite%5FSystem?ref=japanearthobserver.com)). Since HTV-X will burn up when it is returned to Earth, JAXA is not making a long-term bet on NASA’s TDRS system, and this experiment will doubtless provide JAXA with operational experience using this type of system. ![15-htvx-tdrs-diagram-jaxa.png](https://storage.ghost.io/c/54/e9/54e9159b-1345-41dd-b7dd-180de33edc5b/content/images/2025/10/15-htvx-tdrs-diagram-jaxa.png) *Illustration of the TDRS tracking and data relay system. Credit: JAXA* The final first relates to a major design change in HTV-X over its predecessor and it also represents a significant difference from every other ISS cargo vehicle. HTV-X can remain docked at the ISS for up to 6 months, but while other cargo vessels are sent back to Earth after they undock from the ISS (and most burn up in the atmosphere or fall into the Pacific Ocean), *HTV-X is capable of follow-on missions*. On this test flight, after collecting the ISS rubbish, JAXA will send HTV-X1 to a higher 500km orbit in order to carry out a series of additional experiments: - First, about a week after separation from the ISS, it will launch a cubesat from an onboard launcher, the H-SSOD (超小型衛星放出), built into the Service Module. - A couple of weeks after that, it will launch and test Mt.FUJI (軌道上姿勢運動推定実験), an orbital space debris observation and measurement experiment that will use a ground-based laser to assess the attitude of debris in an uncontrolled tumble. - About two months after unberthing from the ISS, HTV-X1 will test the [DEployable LIGHtweight planar antenna Technology demonstration (DELIGHT) (展開型軽量平面アンテナ軌道上実証システム)](https://www.kenkai.jaxa.jp/research/ssps/ssps-kouzoubutsu.html?ref=japanearthobserver.com) \[JAXA\], an ultra-lightweight antenna (only 4.7e g) that can fold into a flat pack for launch and then unfold into a much larger antenna in orbit. - Finally, HTV-X1 will deploy an experiment aimed at testing techniques for assembling and connecting advanced solar panels (太陽電池実証試験) ![16-htvx-post-iss-missions-jaxa.png](https://storage.ghost.io/c/54/e9/54e9159b-1345-41dd-b7dd-180de33edc5b/content/images/2025/10/16-htvx-post-iss-missions-jaxa.png) *Overview of three follow-on missions for HTV-X after leaving the ISS. Credit: JAXA* In addition to the post-ISS technology tests, the cargo manifest on HTV-X1 is pretty extensive and includes: - Crew supplies - Kibō (JAXA-operated research module on the ISS) system components - Demonstration system for carbon dioxide removal (DRCS) - Nitrogen/Oxygen recharge system (NORS) - Water resupply tank (RST) - Science and technology experiments - Lab automation tools for Kibō - Experiments proposed by students from Asia-Pacific region - A bunch of cubesats from deployment from Kibo - Private sector research projects under JAXA’s fee-based Kibō commercial utilization program - these range from marketing initiatives to rice seedlings and an attempt to brew sake in orbit by Dassai The HTV-X does not have an automatic docking mechanism. Rather, it will approach the ISS and match its orbit. When it closes the distance to about 10 meters, a JAXA astronaut will use the Canadarm2 to reach out, grasp the cargo ship, and then pull it into a berth on the [Harmony module](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Harmony%5F%28ISS%5Fmodule%29?ref=japanearthobserver.com). ![17-htv-6-canadarm-iss-nasa.png](https://storage.ghost.io/c/54/e9/54e9159b-1345-41dd-b7dd-180de33edc5b/content/images/2025/10/17-htv-6-canadarm-iss-nasa.png) *A view of the Canadarm grasping the HTV-6 cargo ship. Credit: NASA* ## Coordination of ISS Crews and Cargo As I’ve been writing this overview of the JAXA cargo spacecraft, I started wondering how all of the various spacecraft visits and cargo manifests are coordinated. I mean, there’s already a pile full of visiting vehicles parked at the ISS, and JAXA can’t just fly an HTV-X up there, knock on the hatch and say “Hey, we’re here, and we brought a bunch of stuff.” As you might expect, it turns out there is a system. NASA, Roscosmos (Russia), ESA (Europe), and JAXA (Japan), and other station partners collaborate on both scheduling missions and determining their cargo manifests. ![18-iss-docked-vehicles.png](https://storage.ghost.io/c/54/e9/54e9159b-1345-41dd-b7dd-180de33edc5b/content/images/2025/10/18-iss-docked-vehicles.png) *Vehicles currently visiting the ISS as of 25 Oct 2025\. Credit: NASA* **Interagency Coordination and Scheduling** Cargo resupply schedules are developed via the ISS Multilateral Coordination Board (MCB) and Integrated Planning and Operations Teams. These groups meet regularly to set annual and 6-month mission plans, align resupply needs, and allocate launch opportunities among the partners. Each agency proposes its launches, and these are then integrated into a joint traffic plan to avoid scheduling conflicts, optimize docking usage, and ensure steady logistics coverage for ISS operations. **Manifest Planning for Cargo Contents** The contents of each cargo flight are determined through a two-phase process: - *Phase 1 - Strategic Planning:* At least a year out, partners submit their utilization objectives, experiment needs, crew supply forecasts, and maintenance items. The partners then negotiate, prioritizing mission-critical supplies, international commitments, and research payloads. This feeds into a provisional top-level manifest. - *Phase 2 - Execution Planning:* As launch approaches, the manifest becomes more detailed, reflecting changes due to hardware readiness, experiment timelines, and unexpected needs. Integration teams - including NASA, ESA, JAXA, Roscosmos, and relevant contractors - finalize the packing lists, hardware stowage, and upload logistics, often until just days before launch. Manifest changes require approval through joint review boards and are coordinated to maintain fairness and fulfill all participating agencies' obligations. **Agency-specific Roles and Cooperation** Each agency has primary responsibility for its own cargo vehicle and associated ground operations. For joint missions, contractors and integration specialists from all involved parties work together during cargo loading and checkout - for example, NASA and ESA for ATV, or NASA and JAXA for HTV-X flights. NASA, as the ISS lead operator, maintains oversight of overall resource allocation and verifies that visiting vehicles and their contents meet station interface and safety standards via formal readiness and integration reviews. Finally, real-time adjustments to manifests can be made to respond to contingency needs, like hardware failures or urgent medical supplies. ## But can it do the Kessel Run in less than 12 parsecs? None of the ISS cargo freighters described above will ever be as fast as the Millenium Falcon, but human space exploration requires regular resupplies, and we have collectively developed a few cargo freighters to get the job done. A thriving space economy in near Earth orbit is going to require an increasing number of these types of spacecraft, and JAXA’s HTV-X is positioned to not only supply the ISS until its demise 2030 but also a likely future in which there are multiple commercial space stations as well as other more distance human outposts, like the Lunar Gateway. To that end JAXA is taking steps to develop two new variants of the HTV-X, one for supply trips to the planned Lunar Gateway and one for commercial space stations. **HTV-XG (月探査補給機):** The Trump administration’s proposed NASA budget would have cut Gateway and reduced the number of SLS launches. However, the U.S. Congress seems committed to the space exploration program, and the current budget under discussion maintains funding for Artemis and the Lunar Gateway Space Station. While that budget has not yet been approved, continuation of the Artemis and Gateway programs will likely come as a relief to partner space agencies as a raft of work on Gateway modules has already been completed and are moving toward launch in the 2027 - 2029 timeframe. Like the ISS, Gateway is being constructed as an international collaboration that currently includes NASA, ESA, JAXA, Canada, and the United Arab Emirates. (Russia and Roscosmos has been kicked to the curb and are joining China’s lunar endeavors.) The construction of Gateway will begin with two modules being built under contract for NASA - the [Power and Propulsion Element](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Power%5Fand%5FPropulsion%5FElement?ref=japanearthobserver.com) (PPE) and [Habitation and Logistics Outpost](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Habitation%5Fand%5FLogistics%5FOutpost?ref=japanearthobserver.com) (HALO) - that will be launched together on a single Falcon Heavy rocket. Next, the [European System Providing Refueling, Infrastructure and Telecommunications](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/European%5FSystem%5FProviding%5FRefueling,%5FInfrastructure%5Fand%5FTelecommunications?ref=japanearthobserver.com) (ESPRIT) service module will provide additional propulsion fuel capacity, more communications equipment, and an airlock for science packages. UAE is building a [Crew and Science Airlock Module](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Crew%5Fand%5FScience%5FAirlock%5FModule?ref=japanearthobserver.com) that will be used for extravehicular activities and other docking needs. ESA and JAXA are working together to build the [Lunar International Habitation Module](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Lunar%5FI-Hab?ref=japanearthobserver.com) (Lunar I-HAB). JAXA is responsible for supplying the life support system, environmental controls, batteries, thermal control, and imagery components on the I-HAB. Finally, Canada is building a pair of arms (Canada seems to have a monopoly in the space arm marketplace), called Canadarm3\. JAXA has also committed to providing a resupply vehicle, HTV-XG, which will be a modified version of HTV-X. Mitsubishi Heavy Industries is leading this effort and has [outlined a couple of key changes](https://www.mhi.com/technology/review/sites/g/files/jwhtju2326/files/tr/pdf/e584/e584060.pdf?ref=japanearthobserver.com) \[[Japanese](https://www.mhi.com/technology/review/sites/g/files/jwhtju2326/files/tr/pdf/584/584060.pdf?ref=japanearthobserver.com)\] that will be necessary. First, the pressurized cargo power supply will need to generate 10 times more power than HTV-X while maintaining cargo volume. This will require a significant weight reduction and MHI plans to accomplish this by replacing metal components with composite materials. This will also necessitate an ability to shed more heat by integrating a radiator. Second, because the Gateway will not always have a crew that can use the robotic arm to pull the ship into dock, HTV-X will need to have an autonomous docking capability. There are four more HTV-X trips planned to the ISS, and JAXA and MHI will likely begin incrementally integrating and testing these new features as part of these missions. ![19-nasa-gateway-artemis-elements.png](https://storage.ghost.io/c/54/e9/54e9159b-1345-41dd-b7dd-180de33edc5b/content/images/2025/10/19-nasa-gateway-artemis-elements.png) *Gateway and Artemis mission elements. Credit: NASA* **HTV-XC (商用物資補給船):** The next generation of low Earth orbit space stations will be led by the private sector, and there are now several commercial space station efforts under development, including Starlab, Axiom Space, Blue Origin/Sierra Space, and Vast. It is not clear that they will all make it to orbit, so Japan is placing bets on all of them. Japanese trading companies have investor stakes in Starlab, Axiom Space, and Blue Origin/Sierra Space Orbital Reef project. Japan Manned Space Systems (JAMSS) is developing a multi-purpose payload component for the Vast HAVEN-1 that can accommodate microgravity experiments and small payload modules. JAXA is also investing in development of of a commercial version of the HTV-X (HTV-XC) that can launch resupply missions to any commercial space and in development of a space station module that can operate either autonomously as a standalone station or while docked with one of the commercial space stations. Design and technology development work for both initiatives has been [awarded by JAXA to Japan LEO Shachu](https://space-connect.jp/japan-leo-shachu/?ref=japanearthobserver.com) (日本低軌道社中), a 2024 spinoff from Mitsui & Co (三井物産), using funding from the JAXA Space Strategy Fund beginning in July 2025\. Mitsui & Co. has been operating the cubesat deployment service attached to the Kibō module on the ISS, so they have some insights into what will be required for a new research and experimentation module. The Kibō module has been one of the most successful initiatives in the history of the Japanese space program, and it naturally wants to sustain this leadership in the next chapter of LEO exploration. A science and research module that can dock with any of the commercial space stations as well as operate autonomously will set up Japan to both maintain an independent LEO presence and set the stage for its own space station in the future. The upgraded reapply ship will need to incorporate new technology for flexible near-field communications and navigation functions, support docking at multiple commercial space stations, and autonomous docking technology that is flexible, safe, and reliable. --- If you’ve made it this far, thank you for reading. Please be in touch [via LinkedIn](https://www.linkedin.com/in/rcheetham/?ref=japanearthobserver.com) with any feedback, questions, comments, or requests for future topics. And if you have a friend or colleague that you think would enjoy JEO, please feel free to share it! Until next time, Robert --- As I walk away it opens wide the harvested field. – Uejima Onitsura (1661–1738) 去るほどに うちひらきたる 刈田かな *saru hodo ni* *uchi hirakitaru* *karita kana* ### JEO 6 - SPACETIDE and FOSS4G Kansai 2025 URL: https://www.japanearthobserver.com/jeo-6-spacetide-and-foss4g-kansai-2025/ Last updated: 2025-08-29T12:01:57.000Z Welcome to Japan Earth Observer (JEO), a free monthly newsletter with a news roundup and one in-depth article about the space, Earth observation and geospatial industries in Japan. In addition to a news roundup. I’m also going to write a bit about what I saw and heard at the recent **Spacetide and FOSS4G Kansai conferences in July**. ## News & Announcements ### 💱 Contracts and Funding - **SpaceOne** and **SpaceBD** have won a [contract with the Japanese Ministry of Defense (JMoD)](https://spacenews.com/space-one-and-space-bd-to-launch-satellite-for-japanese-military/?ref=japanearthobserver.com) to launch an optical imaging satellite to be built by **Canon**. SpaceBD will provide launch services for a dedicated solid fuel Kairos rocket from SpaceOne. SpaceOne has yet to get a Kairos into orbit, so it is unsurprising that the announcement did not arrive with an estimated launch date. - **IHI Aerospace** and ICEYE have [signed an MOU to co-develop a SAR satellite constellation](https://www.satellitetoday.com/imagery-and-sensing/2025/05/22/iceye-and-ihi-to-develop-sar-constellation-in-japan/?ref=japanearthobserver.com) \[Via Satellite\] of up to 24 satellites to be manufactured in Japan. This is just an MOU and is subject to government approvals, but it is clearly aimed at Japan’s national security needs. Last month, [I wrote about a new national security SAR constellation that JMoD wants](https://www.japanearthobserver.com/jeo-5-jmod-goes-shopping/#budget-requests-for-next-generation-capabilities) to have built, and it’s possible this agreement is aimed at enabling ICEYE and IHI to create a viable team to pursue that contract. Otherwise, it’s not clear to me that Japan needs a third SAR constellation (after Synspective and iQPS). - **ispace Europe** [has won an extension to its existing Mission for Advanced Geophysics and Polar Ice Exploration (MAGPIE) contract with ESA](https://ispace-inc.com/news-en/?p=7621&ref=japanearthobserver.com) \[ispace\], bringing the contract total to JPY 437 million (\~ US $2.9 million). ispace is leading a consortium of European organizations aimed at exploring and characterizing volatile deposits in lunar polar regions as well as searching for water ice. This is still a “pre-Phase A” contract, so it remains early days, but it will help Europe begin to build a lunar exploration program. - **New Energy and Industrial Technology Development Organization (NEDO)** (新エネルギー・産業技術総合開発機構) announced a [NEDO Challenge for Satellite Data and is now accepting entries](https://www.nedo.go.jp/news/press/AA5%5F101851.html?ref=japanearthobserver.com). The challenge offers up to JPY 50 million (\~US $345,000) for innovative solutions that apply satellite data to the agriculture, forestry and fisheries industries. - **NEDO** has also announced a second NEDO Challenge called the Generative AI Accelerator Challenge [(GENIAC) Prize that will offer up to JPY 800 million (\~US $5.5 million) to apply generative AI](https://www.nedo.go.jp/news/press/AA5%5F101846.html?ref=japanearthobserver.com) to private sector (manufacturing and customer support), public sector (improving processes in government agencies), and generative AI safety. - **Frontier Innovations Fund** announced investments in two startups, **Letara** and **Musashi Sky Plus**. Letara is a startup spun out of Hokkaido University and is [developing hybrid chemical propulsion for spacecraft](https://www.frontier-innovations.jp/2-9?ref=japanearthobserver.com). Musashi Sky Plus is a JAXA startup [developing fixed wing unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs)](https://www.frontier-innovations.jp/2-8?ref=japanearthobserver.com) for security, disaster response, and logistics. - Synspective has announced that they are going to be a distributor for Daichi-4 (ALOS-4) PALSAR data. By my count, that is the third company JAXA has selected to provide ALOS-4 data, the other two being [PASCO, announced in January](https://news.satnews.com/2025/01/26/pasco-to-provide-data-for-japans-newest-radar-satellite/?ref=japanearthobserver.com) \[SatNews\], and [Tenchijin, announced in April](https://www.taiwannews.com.tw/news/6045902?ref=japanearthobserver.com) \[Taiwan News\]. ### 🛰️ Technology and Infrastructure - **Tokyo Metropolitan Government** is [sponsoring an Open Data Hackathon aimed at encouraging use of its open data resources](https://odhackathon.metro.tokyo.lg.jp/recruitment/?ref=japanearthobserver.com) to create innovative services, visualizations, and idea proposals. Teams can apply until July 25 and top teams will be selected between August and October. Winning teams will be provided with support to develop and test prototypes with successful prototypes released at a Demo Day in March 2026\. Submitted projects need to leverage open data resources available in the Tokyo Metro government’s impressive [open data catalog](https://catalog.data.metro.tokyo.lg.jp/?ref=japanearthobserver.com). In a Japan-specific twist, in addition to excluding socially inappropriate businesses, like gambling, entertainment, and multi-level marketing, organized crime groups (暴力団), their employees, and members are explicitly excluded from participation. So Yakuza members with a passion for civic tech and open data will have to sit this one out. ![01-tokyo-open-data-hackathon-schedule.png](https://storage.ghost.io/c/54/e9/54e9159b-1345-41dd-b7dd-180de33edc5b/content/images/2025/08/01-tokyo-open-data-hackathon-schedule.png) *Tokyo Open Data Hackathon schedule* - **ispace** Hakuto-R lunar mission to land in Mare Frigoris ended in failure on Thursday 5 June. The telemetry went dark at 1 min 45 sec before it was supposed to land. In a Friday press conference, the company acknowledged the failed landing, but stated that it will take time to determine the root cause. The landing effort was [broadcast live on YouTube](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=B682YoxGF0w&ref=japanearthobserver.com) \[Japanese\] \[[English broadcast](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=BVSMXQPeTcw&ref=japanearthobserver.com)\]. A few observations and additional details from the live show: - ispace really played up the “Resilience” nickname for the lander and the “Tenacious” nickname for the micro-rover (月面探査車) and how this resilience theme applies to everything the company does. There was also a general acceptance that this second lunar landing attempt by ispace may not succeed, and if that is the case, they will move on to the next lander. - ispace really emphasized that it is a global company. It was notable how many people in the Mission Control Center (MCC) and other elements of the company are from non-Japanese nationalities. - To highlight the distributed nature of the effort, the broadcast also included live feeds from teams and partners in Luxembourg, Washington DC, and Denver. - The message from the U.S. Ambassador to Japan, George Glass, highlighted the decades of collaboration in space exploration between Japan and the United States, but his “learning, building, and dreaming together” message also felt a bit incongruous in the context of the ongoing aggressive tariffs levied on Japan by the U.S. - In addition to the lander and micro-rover, there are other experiments on the mission: - Water electrolyzer (月面用水電解装置) prototype developed by [Takasago Thermal Engineering](https://www.tte-net.com/?ref=japanearthobserver.com) - Deep Space Radiation Probe (深宇宙放射線プローブ) developed by [Taiwan National Central University](https://www.ncu.edu.tw/?ref=japanearthobserver.com) - LunaGlena Algae-based Food Production Experiment (藻類培養実験) developed by [Euglena](https://www.euglena.jp/?ref=japanearthobserver.com) - GOI “Space Century Chapter” commemorative plate (GOI 宇宙世紀憲章プレート) by Bandai Namco - it’s reference to the Gundam franchise - “The Moonhouse” (モーンハウス) sculpture by [Swedish artist Mikael Genberg](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=p3cUVUDi7Cc&ref=japanearthobserver.com) \[YouTube\] will be deposited on the moon by the Tenacious rover, if all goes to plan. ![02-hakuto-r-mikael-genberg.png](https://storage.ghost.io/c/54/e9/54e9159b-1345-41dd-b7dd-180de33edc5b/content/images/2025/08/02-hakuto-r-mikael-genberg.png) *Artist Mikael Genberg explaining his sculpture in front of an iconic Swedish home.* - Logos of customers and partners were prominent on the satellite and on everyone’s mission jackets; I think it’s possible that the patches weigh more than jackets. ![03-ispace-sponsor-patches.png](https://storage.ghost.io/c/54/e9/54e9159b-1345-41dd-b7dd-180de33edc5b/content/images/2025/08/03-ispace-sponsor-patches.png) *Customer and sponsor logos get top-billing on both the lander and the team outfits.* - I thought the live broadcast did a good job of explaining the mission, introducing the various components and partners as well as providing a live feed of the lander status. SpaceX has really pioneered the live rocket launch video feed and dashboard, and ispace had a comparably good set of graphics on its mission status dashboard. ![04-hakuto-r-lander-dashboard.png](https://storage.ghost.io/c/54/e9/54e9159b-1345-41dd-b7dd-180de33edc5b/content/images/2025/08/04-hakuto-r-lander-dashboard.png) *Hakuto-R lunar landing telemetry live dashboard. Credit: ispace* - The U.S. subsidiary of **ispace** will have to [delay launch of its Apex 1.0 lunar lander](https://spacenews.com/engine-change-delays-ispace-built-lunar-lander-mission/?ref=japanearthobserver.com) \[SpaceNews\] from 2026 to 2027 due to engine development timeline issues. The lander is being developed with Draper for a mission funded by NASA’s Commercial Lunar Payload Services (CLPS) program. The lander engine was originally going to be the A2200 from Agile Space Industries. The A2200 will be replaced by VoidRunner, an engine to be jointly developed by ispace and Agile. The replacement engine will have dramatically fewer parts and enable a simpler vehicle design, but the change to such a fundamental component will require redesign of the lander. Once launched, the lander will attempt to land at Schrödinger Basin on the far side of the moon after putting two communications relay satellites into orbit: Alpine and Lupine. - RocketLab [launched another SAR satellite](https://spacenews.com/rocket-lab-launches-radar-imaging-satellite-for-iqps/?ref=japanearthobserver.com) \[SpaceNews\] for **iQPS** on 17 May from its New Zealand launch complex to a 575km, 42° mid-inclination orbit. iQPS is aiming to build out a 24-satellite constellation by 2027 and has booked four more launches in 2025 and two in 2026. - **Astroscale** [completed a critical design review (CDR) milestone under the ELSA-M contract](https://spacenews.com/astroscale-clears-critical-design-review-for-oneweb-satellite-removal-demo/?ref=japanearthobserver.com) \[SpaceNews\] with the UK Space Agency to deorbit a defunct OneWeb satellite. The next steps will be assembly, integration, and testing of the actual servicing satellite, which will be designed to potentially remove multiple satellites from orbit by attaching to a magnetic docking plate and then releasing the dead satellites into a path that will burn them up in the atmosphere. While Astroscale has a contract with the UK to support this active debris removal (ADR) mission, it is actually paying for most of the work itself in the hopes that it will lead to additional contracts in the UK and a full commercial service in the future. - **Astroscale** has announced an [R&D collaboration with Honda to jointly develop a satellite refueling port connection system](https://contents.xj-storage.jp/xcontents/AS82438/07e6df8e/a374/48aa/af2f/1e5b88629e1a/140120250530573379.pdf?ref=japanearthobserver.com) \[Astroscale\] in order to support in-orbit refueling services that can extend the lifespan of satellites. The work will be funded by a “K Program” award from the Cabinet Office. - **Synspective** has released a new [object detection and classification solution](https://synspective.com/press-release/2025/odc/?ref=japanearthobserver.com) \[Synspective\] in collaboration with Polish firm, [SATIM](https://satim.co/?ref=japanearthobserver.com). The solution is now integrated into Synspective's analytics platform and is specifically focused on monitoring aircraft and shipping vessels, with plans to extend detection to a broader range of objects. SATIM has a lot of expertise using AI and SAR data for Automatic Target Recognition (ATR), and they already work with other SAR satellite constellations like Umbra, Capella, and ICEYE as well as European defense firms, Airbus and Thales. I wonder if this will provide exclusive access to the Japanese market for SATIM’s technology or if there is room for competitor iQPS to sign a similar partnership agreement. Some EO companies have a clear strategy of focusing on collecting and delivering data and relying on their partners to build software solutions like this one; Umbra sticks to its data collection knitting and is an example of this approach. Others EO firms, like Capella and ICEYE, have developed software solutions that they sell alongside their data. Synspective is clearly headed down this latter path, and it already provides other solutions, like land displacement monitoring, disaster damage assessment, and forest inventory management. iQPS does not list any solutions, and I wonder if this is a strategic decision, like Umbra's, to focus on data. ![05-shinchitose_airport-1024x724.jpg](https://storage.ghost.io/c/54/e9/54e9159b-1345-41dd-b7dd-180de33edc5b/content/images/2025/08/05-shinchitose_airport-1024x724.jpg) *Synspective SAR image for New Chitose Airport with airplanes highlighted. Credit: Synspective* ### 🔭 Science - **NTT Space Environment and Energy Labs** has [successfully tested using AI and a drone to actively trigger lightning](https://www.sciencealert.com/world-first-japan-claims-new-drone-can-induce-lightning-strikes?ref=japanearthobserver.com) \[Science Alert\], transfer the energy to the ground, and still survive the strike. The AI model is trained on atmosphere electric field data and can forecast both potential lightning strike locations and charge distribution across a region. The drone is encased in a metal Faraday cage, which diverts the electricity around the drone and into wire. NTT’s goals are to both reduce damage from lightning strikes and provide a new power source, though the technology to absorb a vast, instantaneous spike of power and then filter it into the electrical grid does not yet exist. ![06-ntt-lightning-ai-drone.jpg](https://storage.ghost.io/c/54/e9/54e9159b-1345-41dd-b7dd-180de33edc5b/content/images/2025/08/06-ntt-lightning-ai-drone.jpg) *Diagram of electric field and lightning triggering concept. Credit: NTT Group* - **JAXA** is developing [a more sophisticated model for assessing earthquake damage](https://www.asahi.com/ajw/articles/15718611?ref=japanearthobserver.com) \[Asahi\] on a building-by-building basis. The model is being trained using detailed building damage data from the twin Kumamoto earthquakes in 2016\. After the earthquakes, local authorities carried out detailed assessments of the impact on each building. This local data is being combined with synthetic aperture radar (SAR) images from the ALOS-2 (aka Daichi-2 or だいち２号機) satellite. SAR sensors can capture images in both day and night, regardless of cloud cover and are capable of detecting vertical elevation change as small as a few centimeters. The new model is expected to be able to deliver rapid damage assessment after an earthquake using both ALOS-2 and the newer ALOS-4 satellites. - **JAXA** and the **National Institute of Advanced Industrial Science and Technology (AIST)** are [building a new foundation AI model](https://www.jaxa.jp/press/2025/06/20250603-1%5Fj.html?ref=japanearthobserver.com) using Daichi-2 PALSAR-2 synthetic aperture radar (SAR) data and adapted to the conditions of the Japanese archipelago. The aim is to lower the barriers to using SAR data. - The extended **Hayabusa 2** asteroid mission is back on track. After going into safe mode in March, JAXA determined that it was due to temporary failure in one of four reaction wheels (RW) used to control attitude. The reaction wheels all appear to be working again and the [JAXA announced via X on 29 May that the ion engine had been turned back on](https://x.com/haya2%5Fjaxa/status/1927262073248940440?ref=japanearthobserver.com). After visiting asteroid Ryugu (竜宮) in 2018 and returning samples back to the Earth in December 2020, it is currently on its way to a second asteroid, 1998 KY26 (Torifune トリフネ). ### 🗺️ International Collaborations - **JAXA ALOS-2** PALSAR-2 Level 1 [ScanSAR data is now available through the NASA Alaska Satellite Facility Distributed Active Archive Center (ASF DAAC)](https://www.earthdata.nasa.gov/news/alos-2-scansar-data-now-available-earthdata%20?ref=japanearthobserver.com) and, more generally, through NASA [Earthdata search](https://search.earthdata.nasa.gov/search?ref=japanearthobserver.com). I will write in more detail about Japan’s open data policies below, but I think this is kind of a big deal. ALOS-2 data has been available from commercial data providers in Japan and some data products are available on [Google Earth](https://developers.google.com/earth-engine/datasets/catalog?ref=japanearthobserver.com), but general availability to the world’s scientists has been limited. ALOS-2 has been in orbit since 2014 and its imagery is especially useful for landscape topography, ice sheet changes, vegetation analysis, erosion/ground deformation, and disaster response. Further, while commercial SAR constellations capture short wavelength X-band radar data (\~3cm), which is useful for high resolution monitoring of urban areas, infrastructure, and surface change detection, L-band radar has longer wavelengths (\~24cm) and is capable of greater penetration through vegetation and subsurface soil. ALOS-2’s L-band imagery is both useful in its own right and complements forthcoming science missions, like the NASA/Indian Space Research Organization (ISRO) SAR (NISAR) mission. I found it really interesting to learn that this data partnership has been almost two decades in the making. ALOS-1 had a small data recorder that required frequent downlink in order to free up memory for new observations. JAXA created an agreement with the Alaska AF facility to downlink the ALOS-1 data every time it passed over Alaska and then became the archive and distributor for North and South America data it received. Over the years, when scientists requested ALOS-1 data, it was added to the ASF archive. According to ASF DAAC Deputy Manager Kirk Hogenson. “Today, ALOS-1 is ASF’s most popular dataset.” This is a great example of how we can share resources and be better together. ![07-sar-bands-nasa.jpg](https://storage.ghost.io/c/54/e9/54e9159b-1345-41dd-b7dd-180de33edc5b/content/images/2025/08/07-sar-bands-nasa.jpg) *Different ranges of SAR bands. Source: [NASA](https://www.earthdata.nasa.gov/learn/earth-observation-data-basics/sar?ref=japanearthobserver.com)* ![08-sar-bands-nasa2.jpg](https://storage.ghost.io/c/54/e9/54e9159b-1345-41dd-b7dd-180de33edc5b/content/images/2025/08/08-sar-bands-nasa2.jpg) *Sensitivity of SAR measurements to forest structure and penetration into the canopy at different wavelengths. Source: [NASA](https://www.earthdata.nasa.gov/learn/earth-observation-data-basics/sar?ref=japanearthobserver.com)* - **JAXA** [will adapt](https://www.reuters.com/science/japan-remains-committed-moon-missions-trump-cuts-nasa-budget-jaxa-chief-says-2025-05-16/?ref=japanearthobserver.com) if the Trump administration plans to radically cut the NASA lunar exploration and Earth science budget going forward. The NASA-led effort to return humans to the moon includes a Lunar Gateway space station, SLS rocket, Orion capsule and other U.S.-built components, but it also relies on key contributions from Japan, the European Space Agency, and Canada. The Trump administration’s proposed FY2026 NASA budget would cut the Lunar Gateway and SLS rockets after the third launch. However, the proposed cuts by the White House can easily be ignored by Congress, so the direction will likely not be clear until Congress sets the FY2026 budget due by October 2025\. Depending on how it plays out, [partners and suppliers may need to scramble to adapt](https://spacenews.com/nasas-budget-crisis-presents-an-opportunity-for-change/?ref=japanearthobserver.com) \[SpaceNews\]. ![09-nasa-budget-since-1980.png](https://storage.ghost.io/c/54/e9/54e9159b-1345-41dd-b7dd-180de33edc5b/content/images/2025/08/09-nasa-budget-since-1980.png) *NASA inflation-adjusted budget since 1980 with FY2026 budget proposal. Source; SpaceNews* --- ## 📆 Asia-Pacific Conferences & Events This newsletter is mostly focused on Japan, but I also like to highlight events across the Asia-Pacific region. Some upcoming conferences in 2025 include: **Aug 2025** - [Binary Stars in a New Era](https://binarystars2025.casconf.cn/?ref=japanearthobserver.com) \- 24 - 30 Aug - Lijiang, China **Sept 2025** - [26th Advanced Maui Optical and Space (AMOS) Technologies Conference](https://amostech.com/?ref=japanearthobserver.com) \- 16 - 19 Sept - Wailea, HI, United States - [AstroEdu Conference](https://astroeducon.org/2025/?ref=japanearthobserver.com) \- 23 - 25 Sept - Melbourne, Australia - [Aeromart Nagoya](https://aeromartnagoya.com/?ref=japanearthobserver.com) \- 24 - 26 Sept - Nagoya, Aichi, Japan - [Space Generation Congress (SGC)](https://spacegeneration.org/tag/sgc-2025?ref=japanearthobserver.com) \- 25 - 27 Sept - Sydney, Australia - [FOSS4G Hokkaido 2025](https://foss4g.hokkaido.jp/2025?ref=japanearthobserver.com) \- 26 - 27 Sept, Sapporo, Japan - [Deep Space: To the Moon and Beyond](https://www.miraikan.jst.go.jp/en/exhibitions/spexhibition/deep-space.html?ref=japanearthobserver.com) \- 12 July - 28 Sept 2025, Miraikan, Tokyo, Japan - [Space Suppliers Summit Nagoya](https://aeromartnagoya.com/index.php/en/about/co-located-with/space-suppliers-summit-nagoya?ref=japanearthobserver.com) \- 26 - 28 Sept - Nagoya, Aichi, Japan - [32nd IAF Workshop – Resilient Coasts, Resilient Earth](https://www.iafastro.org/events/iac/international-astronautical-congress-2025/associated-events/iaf-workshop-with-support-of-united-nations.html?ref=japanearthobserver.com) \- 26 - 28 Sept - Sydney, Australia - [International Astronautical Congress (IAC)](https://www.iac2025.org/?ref=japanearthobserver.com) \- 29 Sept - 3 Oct - Sydney, Australia **Oct 2025** - [Space-Ship 2025](https://spaceshipcruises.com.au/?ref=japanearthobserver.com) (Cruise) - 5 - 9 Oct - Sydney, Australia - [Asia-Pacific Conference on Synthetic Aperture Radar (APSAR)](https://apsar2025.ce.t.kyoto-u.ac.jp/?ref=japanearthobserver.com) \- 5 - 9 Oct - Matsue, Shimane, Japan - [New Zealand Aerospace Summit](https://www.aerospace.org.nz/summit?ref=japanearthobserver.com) \- 7 - 8 Oct - Christchurch, New Zealand - [FOSS4G 2025 Japan](https://www.osgeo.jp/events/2025-2/foss4g-2025-japan?ref=japanearthobserver.com) \- 11 - 12 Oct - Senshu University, Kawasaki, Japan - [Thailand Space Expo](https://tsx.gistda.or.th/?ref=japanearthobserver.com) \- 16 - 18 Oct - Bangkok, Thailand - [Seoul Aerospace and Defense Expo (ADEX)](https://seouladex.com/?ref=japanearthobserver.com) \- 21 - 25 Oct - Seoul, South Korea - [Asia-Pacific International Symposium on Aerospace Technology](https://apisat2025.org/?ref=japanearthobserver.com) \- 27 - 29 Oct - Seoul, South Korea - [International Congress of Aviation and Space Medicine (ICASM)](https://icasm2025.com/?ref=japanearthobserver.com) \- 27 - 30 Oct - Singapore - [International Symposium on Antennas and Propagation (ISAP)](https://www.isap2025.org/?ref=japanearthobserver.com) \- 27 - 31 Oct - Fukuoka, Japan - [Nihonbashi Space Week](https://www.crossu.org/spaceweek/?ref=japanearthobserver.com) \- 28 - 31 Oct - Nihonbashi, Tokyo, Japan - [19th Annual Meeting of International Committee on Global Navigation Satellite Systems (ICG)](https://www.unoosa.org/oosa/en/ourwork/icg/meetings/ICG-2025.html?ref=japanearthobserver.com) \- 19 - 24 Oct - South Korea **Nov 2025** - [Asia-Pacific Satellite and Space Community Conference (APSCC)](https://apsccsat.com/?ref=japanearthobserver.com) \- 4 - 6 Nov - Taipei, Taiwan - [Free and Open Source for Geospatial (FOSS4G)](https://2025.foss4g.org/?ref=japanearthobserver.com) \- 17 - 23 Nov - Auckland, New Zealand - [Asia-Pacific Regional Space Agency Forum (APRSAF)](https://www.aprsaf.org/annual%5Fmeetings/aprsaf31/meeting%5Fdetails.php?ref=japanearthobserver.com) \- 18 - 21 Nov - Cebu Island, Philippines - [69th Space Science and Technology Conference (宇宙科学技術連合講演会)](https://smartconf.jp/content/sstc69/?ref=japanearthobserver.com) \- 25 - 28 Nov - Sapporo, Japan - [FOSS4G Shinshu 2025](https://www.osgeo.jp/archives/4633?ref=japanearthobserver.com) \- 29 - 30 Nov - Shinshu University, Ina, Nagano, Japan Plus some recent events available on YouTube: - [JAXA GOSAT-GW Press Conference](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=WLvz179eZ8o&ref=japanearthobserver.com) \- 20 May 2025 - JAXA astronaut [Kimiya Yui Press Conference](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=YRZ9-7Lpf2o&ref=japanearthobserver.com) regarding long-term stay on the ISS and activities on the Japanese "Kibo" module during his stay - 4 June 2025 - ispace Hakuto-R moon landing livestream - 5 June 2025 - [English](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=BVSMXQPeTcw&ref=japanearthobserver.com) | [Japanese](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=B682YoxGF0w&ref=japanearthobserver.com) - [H-IIA No. 50 launch of GOSAT-GW](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=MZopG-xQN1s&ref=japanearthobserver.com) from Tanegashima Space Center - 29 June 2025 --- # SPACETIDE and FOSS4G Kansai 2025 I was recently in Japan to attend some conferences, see the sites, and connect with friends. The conferences, in particular, were all related to geospatial, space, and remote sensing, and I thought it might be helpful to share a few observations. ## SPACETIDE 2025 [SPACETIDE](https://events.spacetide.jp/event/tide2025/?ref=japanearthobserver.com) was the main event that drew me to Tokyo in mid-July. I attended in 2024 as well, so I had a sense of what to expect, but this was a milestone year: the 10th anniversary of the event. Since it got started in 2015, SPACETIDE has focused on the commercial space industry. In that relatively short time, the industry has grown substantially and is now considered a strategic priority for investment and labor market growth by the Japanese government. This year, the conference attracted 2,000 people from more than 35 countries. I think the organizers probably boosted that attendance by hosting a parallel event in the same venue, [Space2Earth Asia Summit](https://geospatialworld.net/space2earthasiasummit/2025/%20?ref=japanearthobserver.com), organized by [Geospatial World](https://geospatialworld.net/?ref=japanearthobserver.com), a geospatial media and events company based in India. In addition, there were [several side events](https://events.spacetide.jp/event/tide2025/side-events%20?ref=japanearthobserver.com) held in a nearby venue and hosted by Secure World Foundation, Cambridge Consultants, Swedish Space Corporation, the European Space Policy Institute (ESPI), and others. ![10-spacetide-10-years.jpg](https://storage.ghost.io/c/54/e9/54e9159b-1345-41dd-b7dd-180de33edc5b/content/images/2025/08/10-spacetide-10-years.jpg) *10 years of SPACETIDE. Credit: Spacetie Foundation* I think this conference is interesting for several reasons. First, the event has grown to attract people from across the Asia-Pacific region as well as a smattering of folks from Europe and North America. The organizers seem to be well connected and have substantial convening power: most of the speakers were senior executives in government, commercial, and nonprofit organizations. The event has high production values and all sessions are presented in both English and Japanese with either simultaneous translation or on-screen transcription. Many conferences held in Japan will obviously rely primarily on the Japanese language. This one is different and, as such, it is quite accessible for anyone with reasonably good English language skills. ### Memorable Talks There were three tracks through most of the conference, so I missed most of the talks, but of the subset I saw, a few stood out. The first day of the event was mostly marked by a succession of anodyne welcoming remarks, but one talk in the late afternoon was different. The President of **Honda R&D**, *Ohtsu Keiji*, gave an insightful and substantive introduction to both Honda’s philosophy and mission and why Honda sees the space sector as an opportunity for significant investment and growth. In June Honda took a lot of people by surprise with the successful launch and landing of a reusable rocket prototype. Honda’s core business is manufacturing 2- and 4-wheel vehicles and other engine products. Ohtsu outlined how their space-related R&D is a natural outgrowth of their automobile and engine technology. First, the Honda Fuel Cell system has been under development for 30 years to support hybrid and electric vehicle engines. The latest version will be tested on the ISS in 2027 with an eye to use on the lunar surface for water electrolysis into hydrogen and oxygen. Second, while Honda’s robotics work is probably associated in the popular imagination with the discontinued Aibo robotic dog, they have continued to invest in robotics technology, and are now developing “avatar” robots that support remote operation and “shared autonomy”. Again, this has applications for on-orbit robotics and lunar operations. Finally, the rocket project grew out of combustion experiments for ground vehicles. Honda plans to continue developing the rocket and is aiming for sub-orbital tests by 2029. ![11-honda-fuel-cell.png](https://storage.ghost.io/c/54/e9/54e9159b-1345-41dd-b7dd-180de33edc5b/content/images/2025/08/11-honda-fuel-cell.png) *Honda’s regenerative fuel cell system can operate without a compressor. Credit: Honda R&D* Other notable talks the first day were from *Sir Peter Becker*, Founder and CEO of [RockerLab](https://rocketlabcorp.com/?ref=japanearthobserver.com) and *Lisa Campbell*, President of the [Canadian Space Agency](https://www.asc-csa.gc.ca/eng/?ref=japanearthobserver.com). Becker spoke about his company’s experience working with the Japanese space industry. He also highlighted 1) the supply chain challenges of building complex manufactured products at scale and how this led to a highly vertically integrated company that makes most of its own components; 2) a strong appetite for commercial capabilities on the part of governments; and 3) rapidly growing defense demand. Cambell highlighted almost four decades of science and space collaboration between Canada and Japan with many concrete examples of bilateral cooperation on Earth observation, disaster response, and technology development. She also highlighted their shared vision for peaceful space exploration and what Canada can learn from Japan. This contrasted with a Day 3 talk by *George Glass*, the U.S. Ambassador to Japan, who focused solely on United States accomplishments and barely mentioned shared endeavors with Japan. It came across as tone-deaf and arrogant to me. Some other memorable takeaways: - *Chris Spagnoletti* (Ursa Major) announced a partnership with Innovative Space Carrier and observed that Japanese companies all seem to assume a government subsidy and the ease with which this can become both an addiction and impede commercial development. - *Suzuki Kazuto* (University of Tokyo) spoke a few times and was always candid and insightful. He highlighted the lack of long-term security arrangements between the U.S. and Japan, and noted that while both Japan and the U.S. have export regimes, they are not well aligned. A new Technology Safeguards Agreement (not yet signed) and a new Japanese security clearance system for commercial firms may help to smooth future security-related collaboration, but it’s currently not a smooth collaboration. He also highlighted the relatively low risk tolerance of Japanese investors. This tends to generate a similar risk stance among Japanese companies, and by being exposed to a more international investment community, Japanese firms are more likely to be able to move with greater speed, agility, and tolerance for risk. In a side event organized by ESPI, Suzuki also had a blunt assessment of the impact the Trump administration is having on the U.S.-Japan relationship: - The U.S. is no longer seen as a reliable partner. - The withdrawal of the Isaacman nomination as NASA Administrator and the lack of commitment to the Lunar Gateway and other joint projects has deepened the sense of uncertainty. - Japan will be forced to learn more tolerance of volatility in the U.S. relationship. - The focus on Mars for human spaceflight by the U.S. is not shared by Japan, which is more interested in lunar exploration. - We are all underestimating the impact of supply chain disruptions being created by tariffs and other trade tension. - *Blaine Curcio* (China Space Monitor) gave a great overview of the investment and space industry landscape in China with particular focus on municipal and provincial governments as the key source of funding an extremely fragmented commercial ecosystem. - *Amaki Daiki* (Development Bank of Japan - 日本政策投資銀行) noted that his team has reoriented from seed stage to growth stage investments over the past three years because there are both more early stage private investors in Japan today and new debt and capital financing is more available. He also noted that, compared to ten years ago, Japanese space companies are much more open to partnering with non-Japanese firms across Europe, Middle East, Asia-Pacific, and North America. - *Simon Potter* (Bryce Space Global) noted that over the past decade, defense investment has been perceived as antithetical to environment and sustainability concerns, but that this is now being reassessed by both companies and investors. He also pointed out that some recent contracts between European countries and U.S. firms have been driven by a sense of urgency, but that over time these governments are likely to shift spending to European firms as their capabilities improve. Finally, he pointed to the relatively new NATO Investment Fund as actively investing in space companies. - *Mori Hazuki* (World Economic Forum) highlighted the manufacturing supply chain disruption of both tariffs and yen exchange rate volatility. She also noted that a perceived retreat by the United States is drawing in a range of new actors attempting to fill the leadership vacuum. - *Clayton Swope* (CSIS) noted that if this conference were in the U.S. every other talk would have mentioned China, but it has barely been mentioned all week. He observed that during the Cold War, the U.S. and the Soviet Union developed an “Incidents at Sea” agreement that set rules and norms for encounters by ships in order to reduce the risk of misunderstanding. We do not have an equivalent agreement that would set norms and rules for space. Satellites and other spacecraft are increasingly maneuverable, increasing the risk of misunderstanding and escalation. - *Marc Prioleau* (Overture Maps Foundation) made the case for both private sector investment and openly licensed data as a foundation for global geographic data collaboration. - *John Lee* (KASA) described South Korea’s key focus as developing domestic sovereign capacity for launch, satellite, imaging, and positioning. - *Bill Chang* (HelioX Cosmos) stated that every company in Taiwan shares a mission to integrate with the wider world. He also noted a talent shortage in Taiwan that is similar to those faced by Japan and South Korea. - *Naga Bharath Daka* (Skyroot Aerospace) made a case for an affordable, reliable, on-demand series of VIKRAM rockets for a range of satellite sizes. Similar to Japan, India faces a dearth of large funds that can support growth stages, forcing them to look to Singapore, North America, and Europe for growth capital. However, unlike Japan, India graduates a large number of qualified space scientists and engineers, but does not have enough jobs, so they end up leaving the industry. - *Robbie Schingler* (Planet) described the two key enabling technologies for the coming decade as optical inter-satellite link and on-orbit data processing technology. He has a vision for future satellite architectures that will use open standards to enable interoperability between constellations. - *Kato Satoshi* (Kokusai Kogyo 国際航業) participated in a panel in digital twins and noted some key challenges that will need to be overcome in order to make digital twins truly useful. These include difficulties combining multiple data sources with different levels of precision and the ability to effectively represent non-physical boundaries, such as airspace regulations and jurisdictional boundaries. He also expressed some prudent skepticism about the speed with which digital twins will achieve broad use in Japan, where legal responsibility for a mistake based on a decision made using a digital twin would carry significant financial and reputational consequences. He doesn’t believe we have the level of precision necessary to avoid these types of accidents yet. - *Joann Yap* (HEO Space) introduced a very intriguing new service for “non-Earth imaging” (NEI) of satellites and other orbital objects that can provide critical data for debris management, removal, and design of future satellites. HEO both piggybacks its own instruments on other satellites and contracts with BlackSky to swivel the satellites from Earth to orbital observation while they are flying over oceans. ![12-heo-space-debris-event.png](https://storage.ghost.io/c/54/e9/54e9159b-1345-41dd-b7dd-180de33edc5b/content/images/2025/08/12-heo-space-debris-event.png) *Visual evidence of Russian satellite breakup. Credit: HEO Space* ### General Observations and Impressions **Sponsors got value.** If my company had been a sponsor, I think I would have felt like my sponsorship was worth it. Event sponsors got a fair amount of love with logo displays distributed throughout the venue, video loops between sessions, a special reception, reserved seating, presentation opportunities, and a busy exhibit hall. **Convening power attracts news and announcements.** SPACETIDE impressively attracts a lot of senior executives from across government and commercial organizations. That makes this an attractive venue for announcing new deals. There were a bunch of them (and I missed several) including: - AWS announced their new [Asia-Pacific Accelerator Program](https://aws.amazon.com/blogs/publicsector/aws-launches-space-accelerator-program-across-australia-india-and-japan/?ref=japanearthobserver.com) - Synspective announced their deal with Exolaunch - Ursa Major and Innovative Space Carrier announced a partnership **Convening power has a downside.** Most presenters were CEOs, Presidents, Executive Directors, heads of agencies, and other senior executives. That’s cool in the sense that you feel like “this is the place to be.” However, as a former CEO, I can attest that being a senior executive often means that you are constrained in terms of what you can say. Senior executives have a lot of stakeholders that they need to serve: employees, investors, customers, regulators, etc. This creates incentives to make statements that are safe, guarded, and anodyne. What does that mean? A lot of presentations and messaging is “oh, ok, that’s kind of obvious.” There were exceptions, but there were a lot of talks lacking courageous, opinionated, or just plain refreshing statements. **Relentless drumbeat of labor force shortages.** Many Japanese speakers highlighted the challenge of recruiting qualified applicants as well as efforts to attract candidates from overseas and outside the industry. This is not unique to the space and geospatial sectors; Japan faces labor force shortages in retail, health care, logistics, transportation, construction, and a range of other industries. In parallel with the conference, SPACETIDE organized a [Career Connect](https://peatix.com/us/event/4393843?ref=japanearthobserver.com) event in order to connect job seekers with companies. **Still a lotta man-els.** There were a lot of “man-els” (all-male panels) and I served on one. The organizers probably deserve some credit for both having many speakers with diverse perspectives from across Asia, Europe, and North America as well as many women speakers. But it’s not enough, and it still needs work. **China was missing and it’s an opportunity.** With the exception of Blaine Curcio, who writes the excellent [China Space Monitor newsletter](https://chinaspacemonitor.substack.com/) and offered some insightful observations on the China space sector, I did not see any presenters from China. This was despite several talks on Asia-Pacific topics that included speakers from Korea, Singapore, Taiwan, Australia, India, Malaysia, and Thailand. If this was the U.S, one might imagine that there were immigration visa issues, but that’s just not the case in Japan. Tokyo (and the rest of Japan) is inundated with tourists from China, and it is not hard to get to Japan from China. I suppose it is possible that Chinese business leaders in the space sector are not interested in attending SPACETIDE, but I am guessing that is also not the case. Clayton Swope’s observations (see above) resonate for me, and I think there is an opportunity here for Japan to demonstrate leadership by either engaging in or brokering a US-Japan-China collaboration in orbit. China is making extraordinary investments and technical advances in the space sector, and this creates a landscape for potential demonstrations of collaboration that can help defuse geopolitical tension. The SPACETIDE event coincided with the 50th anniversary of the [Apollo-Soyuz mission](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Apollo%E2%80%93Soyuz?ref=japanearthobserver.com) in July 1975\. I think there is an opportunity for similar sorts of symbolic collaborations today. The U.S., Japan, and Europe collaborate with China on air traffic management, meteorology, telecoms, and other sectors. Space should be similarly tractable. Maybe the opportunity is to collaborate on space traffic and debris management. **US tariffs and other behavior toward allies is rapidly undermining and eroding relationships.** Few people said it out loud, but I walked away with a sense that whether commercial or government, folks across the Asia-Pacific are pivoting very hard to weave ties with other Asia-Pacific and European partners, and away from the United States. The U.S. remains an important market, but I think we can expect to see an Asia-Pacific region that is more integrated and independent from the U.S. in the years ahead. Were you not able to attend SPACETIDE but wish you could have been there? The whole event was recorded on video, and you can still buy [a video-only pass](https://events.spacetide.jp/event/tide2025/tickets?ref=japanearthobserver.com) to view all tracks across the three days. ## FOSS4G Kansai 2025 ### What is FOSS4G? While I was in Japan in July, I attended another conference, [FOSS4G Kansai](https://www.osgeo.jp/events/2025-2/foss4g-2025-kansai?ref=japanearthobserver.com), the weekend prior to SPACETIDE. This one was a much smaller, local, community event held at a local university in Osaka on a Saturday. “FOSS4G” stands for Free and Open Source for Geospatial and is the moniker used for regional, national, and international events organized under the aegis of [Open Source Geospatial Foundation (OSGeo)](https://www.osgeo.org/?ref=japanearthobserver.com). As the name implies FOSS4G is a gathering of people who build geospatial software tooling that is released under open source licenses. While OSGeo hosts many open source software projects, talks and workshops at FOSS4G events can be on any topics related to open source software, open data, and open standards. The FOSS4G events are a chance for software developers, users, students, and business leaders in the geospatial technology industry to gather around a shared interest in building an open technology ecosystem. Most FOSS4G events have a common structure that includes four components: hands-on learning workshops, talks, social event(s), a poster or demonstration event, and some kind of hackathon or similar opportunity to build something together. FOSS4G Kansai was held over two days with Saturday being the “Core Day” with two tracks of talks, a poster session, and a dinner social event in the evening. I was not able to attend on Sunday, but the schedule included four half-day [“Hands-on” workshops](https://www.osgeo.jp/events/2025-2/foss4g-2025-kansai/foss4g-2025-kansai-%E3%83%8F%E3%83%B3%E3%82%BA%E3%82%AA%E3%83%B3%E3%83%87%E3%82%A4?ref=japanearthobserver.com) on various topics as well as a half-day “mystery” tour (なぞツアー) of the area. There has been an international FOSS4G event held annually since 2004, and the event is organized in a different city each year. This year’s international FOSS4G event will be held in [Auckland, New Zealand in November](https://2025.foss4g.org/?ref=japanearthobserver.com), and next year will be held in [Hiroshima in August 2026](https://www.osgeo.jp/archives/4501?ref=japanearthobserver.com). Regional FOSS4G events, such as [FOSS4G Europe](https://2025.europe.foss4g.org/?ref=japanearthobserver.com), [FOSS4G Asia](https://foss4g.asia/?ref=japanearthobserver.com), and [FOSS4G North America](https://www.foss4gna.org/?ref=japanearthobserver.com), are held on semi-regular schedules based on regional and national interest. Volunteers in Japan have been key contributors to both the establishment of OSGeo and the earliest FOSS4G events, and this community spirit is expressed in frequent national and regional FOSS4G events. The FOSS4G Kansai event was the first time of its kind in the Kansai region since the COVID pandemic, and it had the energy that arises from a gathering of old friends after a long absence. If you are interested in a FOSS4G event in Japan this year, there are two more currently planned in the next few months: - [FOSS4G Hokkaido 2025](https://foss4g.hokkaido.jp/2025?ref=japanearthobserver.com) \- 26 - 27 Sept, Sapporo, Japan - [FOSS4G 2025 Japan](https://www.osgeo.jp/events/2025-2/foss4g-2025-japan?ref=japanearthobserver.com) \- 11 - 12 Oct - Senshu University, Kawasaki, Japan ### Memorable Talks FOSS4G Kansai had more than two dozen talks in two tracks, so I was not able to attend them all. As is the case for every FOSS4G event I have attended in the past, topics covered a broad range, from desktop and web software tools, like [GRASS](https://grass.osgeo.org/?ref=japanearthobserver.com), [GQIS](https://qgis.org/?ref=japanearthobserver.com), and [MapLibre](https://maplibre.org/?ref=japanearthobserver.com) to technology implementation case studies and the latest in AI applications using the [MCP standard](https://modelcontextprotocol.io/?ref=japanearthobserver.com). A few of the talks stood out for me: **Re:Earth**. There were two talks on a new [open source](https://github.com/reearth?ref=japanearthobserver.com) web application called [Re:Earth](https://reearth.io/?ref=japanearthobserver.com), developed by Japanese software firm, **Eukarya**. The platform is now in an early alpha release, but the developers have outlined a platform designed for sharing, publishing, and visualizing urban data sets in 3D. ![13-foss4g-kansai-re-earth-noto.png](https://storage.ghost.io/c/54/e9/54e9159b-1345-41dd-b7dd-180de33edc5b/content/images/2025/08/13-foss4g-kansai-re-earth-noto.png) *Re:Earth visualization of flood and landslide areas from Noto Peninsula Earthquake. Credit: Eukarya* **Can OSS become a public good?** Imamura Kazuki did a fascinating talk on a report her organization, Information-technology Promotion Agency (IPA) (独立行政法人情報処理推進機構), has released regarding Japan’s [open source software promotion strategy](https://www.ipa.go.jp/digital/kaihatsu/oss/about/report2024/nl10bi0000008yyz-att/open-source-report2024.pdf?ref=japanearthobserver.com). She outlined some major reasons that greater use of open source software would be in Japan’s strategic interest, as well as why IPA does not currently assess it as a sustainable community: there is no national open source strategy; there are only small numbers of open source contributors; and few companies have an open source usage policy, let alone an Open Source Program Office. In order to promote use of open source software and distribute better information, IPA has set up a new web site, [Japan Open Source Hub](https://www.ipa.go.jp/digital/kaihatsu/oss/index.html?ref=japanearthobserver.com). ![14-foss4g-kansai-oss-participation.png](https://storage.ghost.io/c/54/e9/54e9159b-1345-41dd-b7dd-180de33edc5b/content/images/2025/08/14-foss4g-kansai-oss-participation.png) *Very few Japanese companies participate in the open source software community. Source: IPA* **Cesium Developer Conference Report.** Kukita Gen presented a quick overview of the first ever [Cesium Developer Conference](https://cesium.com/events/cesium-developer-conference/?ref=japanearthobserver.com) held in Philadelphia in June. This was of particular interest to me because I live in Philadelphia, I have followed Cesium’s development from its origins as an in-house open source project at AGI to its 2024 acquisition by Bentley Systems, and I attended the conference. Cesium began as an open source tool for displaying 3D geospatial data in a web browser. Despite taking on venture capital funding and recently being sold to Bentley, the Cesium javascript component remains available as open source software and Cesium continues to make significant contributions to open data and open standards development. Part of its commercial success has been based on close collaborative partnerships with leading companies in the Japanese Architecture, Engineering and Construction (AEC) sector. This first conference had more than 400 attendees from 30 countries, and almost 10% of the presentation sessions were by Japanese organizations, including [Nippon Koei](https://www.n-koei.co.jp/?ref=japanearthobserver.com), [CalTa](https://calta.co.jp/?ref=japanearthobserver.com), [MRI](https://www.mri.co.jp/?ref=japanearthobserver.com), [LocusBlue](https://locusblue.com/?ref=japanearthobserver.com), [Takram](https://www.takram.com/?ref=japanearthobserver.com), and [EARTHBRAIN](https://www.earthbrain.com/?ref=japanearthobserver.com). The EARTHBRAIN talk was particularly interesting. EARTHBRAIN is a joint venture by Komatsu, NTT, Sony Semiconductor, and Nomura Research Institute focused on construction equipment automation. In a collaboration with Cesium and Bentley, they have developed a data processing pipeline that enables them to rapidly integrate both initial data scans of large construction sites and update the resulting 3D model with scans of ongoing changes. Cesium had developed an open 3D data specification format, [3D Tiles](https://cesium.com/why-cesium/3d-tiles/?ref=japanearthobserver.com), a decade ago. Cesium continues to make [changes to improve on the 3D Tiles standard](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=KeKlbVor378&ref=japanearthobserver.com), and new version of this, called NextGen 3D Tiles, enables the EARTHBRAIN product to support “time-dynamic data” so that a single data store can support the thousands of surface changes that can occur at a large construction site over time. ![15-cesium-time-dynamic-3d-tiles.png](https://storage.ghost.io/c/54/e9/54e9159b-1345-41dd-b7dd-180de33edc5b/content/images/2025/08/15-cesium-time-dynamic-3d-tiles.png) *An overview of how time-dynamic data is made possible with 3D Tiles. Credit: EARTHBRAIN* **An Introduction to the Overture Maps Foundation**. Mori Toru gave an overview of the [Overture Maps Foundation](https://overturemaps.org/?ref=japanearthobserver.com), a project based at the [Linux Foundation](https://www.linuxfoundation.org/?ref=japanearthobserver.com). I am quite enthusiastic about the Overture initiative, and I was interested to see how it would be framed by Mori, a deeply knowledgeable and experienced geospatial expert. Overture aims to assemble the available data concerning the built environment (roads, buildings, etc.), organize it, integrate it, and share it under an open license. While less than three years old, the project has successfully released data on a regular cadence, has an [Overture Maps Explorer](https://explore.overturemaps.org/?ref=japanearthobserver.com) for visualizing the current state of the data, and has developed a global entity reference system (GERS) that serves as a unique identifier for each feature. I agree with Mori that this latter innovation, the GERS ID, is perhaps the most important output of the effort. Combined with open source software tooling for conflating diverse data sets (removing duplicates, determining the best version, etc.), Overture is providing important infrastructure for every geospatial data user in the world by paying the “[conflation tax](https://overturemaps.org/blog/2025/overture-maps-foundation-at-geobuiz-2025-eliminating-the-conflation-tax-on-geospatial-data/?ref=japanearthobserver.com)” on behalf of everyone. Mori also highlighted where Overture comes up short. He showed basic errors in the location of major landmarks in Tokyo and Osaka. Mori also highlighted that while this is an open data and open source effort, it is currently primarily an industry alliance funded by four big tech companies. Successful open source and open data initiatives usually need to cultivate communities in order to be sustainable in the long run, and while there is the potential for Overture to build a community around its work, this remains nascent. ![16-overture-gers.png](https://storage.ghost.io/c/54/e9/54e9159b-1345-41dd-b7dd-180de33edc5b/content/images/2025/08/16-overture-gers.png) *Overview of the GERS concept. Credit: Mori Toru and Overture Maps Foundation* **Global FOSS4G 2026 in Hiroshima**. The day concluded with some more details about the global FOSS4G conference planned for 30 Aug - 5 Sept 2026 in Hiroshima. Before talking about the 2026 event, Iwasaki Nobusuke (Tottori University) shared a helpful overview of the history and long-term relationship between the OSGeo Foundation and the Japan national chapter of OSGeo. Iwasaki also highlighted two upcoming regional FOSS4G events [FOSS4G Hokkaido](https://foss4g.hokkaido.jp/2025?ref=japanearthobserver.com) 26-27 Sept 2025, [FOSS4G Japan](https://www.osgeo.jp/events/2025-2/foss4g-2025-japan?ref=japanearthobserver.com) 11-12 Oct 2025, and FOSS4G Shinshu 29-30 Nov 2025. Aiming for 500 - 1000 attendees **Dinner social.** There were also a few lightning talks at the evening dinner event, and I particularly enjoyed one on the geospatial coordinate and projection system in Japan, despite the projection on a wood paneled wall. ![17-foss4g-kansai-projections.jpg](https://storage.ghost.io/c/54/e9/54e9159b-1345-41dd-b7dd-180de33edc5b/content/images/2025/08/17-foss4g-kansai-projections.jpg) *A summary of EPSG codes related to the 2011 Japan Geographic Datums.* ### General Observations **Rasters vs. Vectors.** Over the past several years, I have observed a significant increase in FOSS4G talks focused on processing and using raster data (imagery and other gridded data) and related tooling and standards - Rasterio, GDAL, STAC, COGs, ZARR, Icechunk, etc. - as well as 3D and point cloud data (PDAL, Cesium, etc.). I think this reflects a significant increase in the availability and application of drone and satellite Earth observation data. It may not be fair to generalize from a one-day regional event, but the FOSS4G Kansai talks reflected more of an interest in a mix of desktop and web GIS tooling - QGIS, GRASS, MapLibre, etc. - that would have been more common a decade ago, though the strong interest in 3D data is similar to trends I’ve seen at other FOSS4G events. **Individuals and small businesses staff the boiler rooms in the open source geospatial community.** While big companies show up as sponsors and with a few talks, a lot of the talks, organizing work, and vibrant energy comes from relatively small geospatial software engineering companies with a sense of mission. In North America and Europe, these are firms like [Hobu](https://hobu.co/?ref=japanearthobserver.com), [Development Seed](https://developmentseed.org/?ref=japanearthobserver.com), [Element 84](https://element84.com/?ref=japanearthobserver.com), Crunchy Data (acquired by Snowflake), Azavea (acquired by Element 84), [CampToCamp](https://camptocamp.com/?ref=japanearthobserver.com), and [Oslandia](https://oslandia.com/?ref=japanearthobserver.com). Based on what I saw at this event, the equivalent Japanese firms are [MIERUNE](https://www.mierune.co.jp/?ref=japanearthobserver.com), [Eukarya](https://eukarya.io/?ref=japanearthobserver.com), [PASCO](https://www.pasco.co.jp/?ref=japanearthobserver.com), [Pacific Spatial Solutions](https://pacificspatial.com/?ref=japanearthobserver.com), Georepublic (recently acquired by [Geolonia](https://www.geolonia.com/?ref=japanearthobserver.com)). This is laudable, but, as [Paul Ramsey](https://blog.cleverelephant.ca/?ref=japanearthobserver.com) has [pointed out with eloquence over many years](https://www.geolonia.com/?ref=japanearthobserver.com), in the long run, it is not very sustainable. Sustainability requires contributions from a broad ecosystem of governments, universities, and businesses, and (at least from the small sample size of this Kansai event) I do not think the status quo is more healthy in Japan than it is in other parts of the world. Case in point: I find no evidence of a single yen distributed by the [JAXA Space Strategy Fund](https://www.japanearthobserver.com/jeo-3-japans-space-strategy-fund/#japans-space-strategy-fund-space-industrial-policy-at-scale) being used to support open data, open source, or open standards. (If I’m wrong, someone please correct me). I would argue that public goods, like open source and open data, are very much in Japan’s strategic interest and a deeply worthwhile investment to support its space and geospatial innovation ecosystem. Open source software and open data is digital infrastructure and should be funded as such. **Sense of Community.** Most industry gatherings tend to either be academic or commercial. Both types of events help create and nurture a culture and a sense of community among the attendees: “people like us attend events like this”. But events like FOSS4G Kansai are different. I am guessing that no one was paid to organize or attend the event. But everyone was there because of a shared sense that “we’re all here building something together”. I like this type of feeling - the sense that I am part of a group of people creating a common good from which our entire society can benefit; these people are my tribe. Do you wish you could have attended FOSS4G Kansai? The main track of the event was l[ive-streamed on YouTube](https://www.youtube.com/live/6O%5FdNRo4Ow0?ref=japanearthobserver.com) and is available for replay. --- If you’ve made it this far, thank you for reading. Please be in touch via [LinkedIn](https://www.linkedin.com/in/rcheetham/?ref=japanearthobserver.com) with any feedback, questions, comments, or requests for future topics. And if you have a friend or colleague that you think would enjoy JEO, please feel free to share it! Until next time, Robert --- A new pond, a frog jumps in; no sound at all. – Taigu Ryokan (1758 - 1831) - translated by William Scott Wilson 新池や 蛙とびこむ 音もなし *araike ya* *kawazu tobikomu* *oto mo nashi* ### JEO 5 - JMoD Goes Shopping URL: https://www.japanearthobserver.com/jeo-5-jmod-goes-shopping/ Last updated: 2025-05-12T18:36:56.000Z Welcome to Japan Earth Observer (JEO), a free monthly newsletter with a news roundup and one in-depth article about the space, Earth observation and geospatial industries in Japan. In addition to a news roundup, in this edition I’m also going to write a bit about some **satellite infrastructure investments being planned by the Japan Ministry of Defense (JMoD)**. I was originally planning to write about open data this month, and I had the JMoD as a news item, but the length got out of hand, so I kept going. I’ll write about open data next month. ## News & Announcements ### 💱 Contracts and Funding - **Axelspace** is [planning an IPO on the Tokyo Stock Exchange](https://www.reuters.com/science/axelspace-eyes-june-ipo-sources-say-latest-japan-space-startup-seek-listing-2025-05-08/?ref=japanearthobserver.com) \[Reuters\] as early as June. Government contracts in the form of the Space Strategy Fund and increased defense spending are enticing even loss-making private firms to consider public listings. Axelspace had previously considered a public listing, but delayed it in the face of equipment failures and delayed contracts. As such, this is probably the tail end of a two-year surge in public listings by private space firms - ispace, Synspective, iQPS, and Astroscale have IPO-ed since spring 2023 - rather than the start of a new phenomenon. Nonetheless, there is a general perception in Japan that its meager venture capital community and smaller domestic market drive a need to go public sooner than would otherwise be the case in North America or Europe. I’m a little skeptical of this oft-repeated justification, as Japanese firms potentially have the same access to the deep pockets of North American VC investors, but that’s the line I’ve frequently heard. In any event, Axelspace is planning [to launch seven of its next generation GRUS-3 Earth observation satellites in 2026](https://www.axelspace.com/news/grus-3/?ref=japanearthobserver.com). In preparation for that, a GRUS-3α technology validation mission will be launched this summer on the SpaceX Transporter-14 rocket in June. - **Synspective** was [awarded an imagery acquisition contract](https://asia.nikkei.com/Business/Aerospace-Defense-Industries/Japan-satellite-operators-amp-up-investment-as-commercial-demand-rises?ref=japanearthobserver.com) worth JPY 87 million (US $580,000) by the Ministry of Defense (JMoD) for FY2025 as well as a [contract to develop security standard guidelines for space systems](https://synspective.com/information/2025/japan%5Fair%5Fself%5Fdefense%5Fforce%5Fbid/?ref=japanearthobserver.com) for the Air Self Defense Force (JASDF) worth JPY 99.99 million (US $665,000 - **SKY Perfect JSAT** [plans to invest JPY 70 billion (US $483 million) for ground stations, satellites, and other infrastructure in 2025](https://asia.nikkei.com/Business/Aerospace-Defense-Industries/Japan-satellite-operators-amp-up-investment-as-commercial-demand-rises?ref=japanearthobserver.com) \[Nikkei Asia\], equivalent to the previous three years of investment, and then maintain that level of investment through 2027, as it shifts from a geostationary constellation to one that integrates LEO and High-Altitude Platform Stations (HAPS). The planned investment is driven by expected national security demand through 2030, and growing commercial demand in subsequent years. - **Astroscale** will be [refueling two U.S. Space Force satellites](https://spacenews.com/astroscale-u-s-to-refuel-two-space-force-spacecraft-on-2026-mission/?ref=japanearthobserver.com) \[SpaceNews\] in geostationary orbit in summer 2026\. The refueling spacecraft, dubbed APS-R, will launch with a tank of hydrazine fuel that it will deliver to a Tetra-5 satellite just above the GEO orbital belt. Then it will back off and use a hyperspectral sensor to check for any leaks. Next, it will navigate to an [Orbit Fab](https://www.orbitfab.com/?ref=japanearthobserver.com) fuel depot, which will also launch in 2026, to refill and then head off to top up a second DoD satellite. The ASP-R satellite has a design life of two to three years so, Astroscale could potentially complete the U.S. Space Force contract and then go on to play fuel tanker to other satellites. This work will be funded by a $61 million OTA agreement with the Space Enterprise Consortium. - **Japan Manned Space Systems Corporation (JAMSS)** has signed an [agreement with Vast to host a payload on the Haven-1 station](https://spacenews.com/vast-signs-three-more-payload-partners-for-haven-1/?ref=japanearthobserver.com) \[SpaceNews\]. JAMSS has worked with JAXA to support research payloads on the ISS Kibo module, and aims to continue carrying out microgravity research after the ISS is deorbited in 2030\. Haven-1 is expected to launch in mid-2026. - **ispace** [signed an MOU with Australian nuclear engineering firm, entX](https://ispace-inc.com/news-en/?p=7268&ref=japanearthobserver.com), to assess the technical feasibility of integrating a Radioisotope Heating Unit (RHU) to enable survival of lunar nights. The collaboration will be partially supported by a grant from the South Australia government. - **ispace** also signed an agreement with **KDDI** for [planning and research for a lunar mobile communications system](https://ispace-inc.com/news-en/?p=7346&ref=japanearthobserver.com). KDDI was awarded a [Space Strategy Fund](https://www.japanearthobserver.com/jeo-3-japans-space-strategy-fund/#japans-space-strategy-fund-space-industrial-policy-at-scale) project in November 2024 to develop a high capacity Earth-Moon communication system. - A team led by the **Institute of Science Tokyo** and including **ispace**, **Tokyo University**, **Hokkaido University**, and **Osaka Metro University** has been [awarded a JAXA Space Strategy Fund award for developing sensor technology for detecting water resources](https://fund.jaxa.jp/content/uploads/kekka4-2.pdf?ref=japanearthobserver.com) \[JAXA\] on the moon. This was the last of the Year 1 Strategy Fund topics and was a re-solicitation. The project will focus on detecting underground water using a terahertz wave remote sensing satellite. - **Mitsubishi Bussan Aerospace**, in partnership with Belgian firm, Aerospacelab, has been [selected by JAXA to deliver a satellite](https://news.satnews.com/2025/05/03/aerospacelab-stellar-jaxa-contract-through-mitsui-bussan-aerospace/?ref=japanearthobserver.com) \[Satnews\] for the Scanning Array for hyper-Multispectral RAdiowave Imaging ([SAMRAI](https://www.satnavi.jaxa.jp/ja/news/2024/09/26/9856/index.html?ref=japanearthobserver.com)) mission. - **ElevationSpace** and **Toyota** have [signed an agreement to jointly develop heat-resistant materials](https://elevation-space.com/posts/news%5F20250416?ref=japanearthobserver.com) for its ELS-R atmospheric re-entry vehicles. Toyota (which before its automobile business was a textile company) has been developing ”3D” textile technology using lightweight, heat-resistant carbon fiber for the automotive, aviation, and space industries. ![02-toyota-3d-textile-diagram.png](https://storage.ghost.io/c/54/e9/54e9159b-1345-41dd-b7dd-180de33edc5b/content/images/2025/05/02-toyota-3d-textile-diagram.png) *Toyota 3D textile technology which includes the usual warp and weft plus a multi-layered “thickness”* - **Honda** has selected Sierra Space’s Dream Chaser [spaceplane to transport a hydrogen fuel cell system to the ISS for testing](https://payloadspace.com/honda-will-hitch-a-ride-on-dream-chaser-to-the-iss/?ref=japanearthobserver.com) \[Payload\]. Honda has put in decades of R&D investment to create a water electrolysis system that could potentially supply a future lunar base with air, electricity, and rocket fuel that could support extended stays. Dream Chaser, launched on top of a rocket, can both deliver the system to the ISS and then return it to Earth after testing is completed. It is not currently clear when the launch will occur, but the first Dream Chaser launch is expected to occur in the next few months. ![03-honda-regenerative-fuel-system.png](https://storage.ghost.io/c/54/e9/54e9159b-1345-41dd-b7dd-180de33edc5b/content/images/2025/05/03-honda-regenerative-fuel-system.png) *An illustration of the Honda hydrogen fuel cell on a lunar base. Credit: Honda* ### 🛰️ Technology and Infrastructure - Space robotics firm, **GITAI**, has completed a [concept study for a robotic arm that will be attached to the pressurized lunar rover](https://spacenews.com/gitai-finalizes-robotic-arm-study-for-japans-crewed-lunar-rover/?ref=japanearthobserver.com) \[SpaceNews\] being developed by JAXA and Toyota. The US $160,000 contract is expected to be followed by a much larger contract to build the actual robotic arm over the next five years. - The **Institute of Space and Astronautical Sciences (ISAS)** (宇宙科学研究所), a division of JAXA, announced that they are [working with a commercial team to develop a lightweight Mars rover delivery technology](https://spacenews.com/jaxa-institute-studying-mars-lander-concept/?ref=japanearthobserver.com) \[SpaceNews\] that willl utilize an inflatable aeroshell technology originally developed at Tokyo University. [Dubbed the “Mars Touch Project” will be led by NeSTRA](https://elevation-space.com/posts/news%5F20250424?ref=japanearthobserver.com) (次世代宇宙システム技術研究組合) which will oversee deployable aeroshell technology by Fujikura Aircraft (藤倉航装) and re-entry vehicle technology by ElevationSpace, and the effort will be funded by the [Space Strategy Fund](https://www.japanearthobserver.com/jeo-3-japans-space-strategy-fund/#japans-space-strategy-fund-space-industrial-policy-at-scale). - The second **ispace** lunar lander mission, [Hakuto-R M2, has successfully arrived in lunar orbit](https://spacenews.com/resilience-lunar-lander-enters-orbit-around-the-moon/??ref=japanearthobserver.com) \[SpaceNews\] on May 6 in preparation for an early June landing, meeting the 7th of 10 mission milestones. - The final **H-IIA rocket** will be [launched by JAXA from the Tanegashima Space Center](https://www.japantimes.co.jp/news/2025/04/24/japan/japan-h2a-rocket-final-launch/?ref=japanearthobserver.com) \[Japan Times\] no earlier than 24 June. This has been JAXA’s reliable workhorse rocket since 2001 with only one launch failure in 24 years. The 50th launch will carry the [GOSAT-GW](https://www.satnavi.jaxa.jp/files/project/gosat-gw/en/?ref=japanearthobserver.com) satellite to observe greenhouse gas emissions (nitrogen dioxide, carbon dioxide, and methane) as well as water vapor, rainfall, snowfall, and soil moisture. GOSAT-GW is a successor to the earlier GOSAT and GOSAT-2 and its two instruments will be capable of capturing much larger 911 km swaths of the Earth’s surface and have a more frequent revisit cadence of three days. - **JAXA** presented [the launch manifest for its **next H3 rocket** launch](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=v%5F4ooNyVFWs&ref=japanearthobserver.com) \[YouTube\]. Rocket No. 6 will fly four Space BD payloads - UnseenLab’s BRO-19, VERTECS for a consortium of universities, Bull’s HORN-L and HORN-R - as well as the 65kg PETREL for Tokyo University and a similar sized STARS-X for Shizuoka University. This will be the first launch of the Type 30S configuration, which includes a third engine on the second stage, but does not have any of the strap-on solid rocket boosters assisting the first stage. Two more major H-3 launches are expected in 2025: one to launch a new HTV-X cargo mission to the ISS and one to launch two more Michibiki satellites (QZS-5 and QZS-7) to fill out the QZSS navigation constellation. ### 🔭 Science - A **JAXA** [Exhibit at the Osaka Expo opened on April 13](https://expo2025.jaxa.jp/en/?ref=japanearthobserver.com) \[JAXA\]. It’s located in the “Future Life Village” and features a Space Theater, Moon Gravity Experience, and other exhibits. - The extended **Hayabusa 2** [asteroid mission has run into some problem and entered safe mode](https://www.space.com/space-exploration/missions/glitch-forces-japans-asteroid-sampling-hayabusa2-probe-into-protective-safe-mode-in-deep-space?ref=japanearthobserver.com) \[Space.com\]. Hayabusa 2 has already done yeoman’s work visiting asteroid Ryugu (竜宮) in 2018 and returning samples back to the Earth in December 2020\. Since then it’s been on its way to a second asteroid, [1998 KY26](https://www.spacereference.org/asteroid/1998-ky26?ref=japanearthobserver.com). An [April 2 post on X](https://x.com/haya2%5Fjaxa/status/1907357366896771329?ref=japanearthobserver.com) stated that the probe had gone into safe mode on Mar 21 but remained in communication. - A research team that included **CORE Corporation**, **ACSL**, and **Rakuten Group** has [successfully tested the new anti-spoofing capabilities](https://insidegnss.com/japanese-qzss-authentication-for-spoof-proof-drone-delivery/?ref=japanearthobserver.com) that were added to the QZSS constellation in 2024\. The basic GPS signal is weak and subject to both jamming and spoofing attacks. Spoofing is when a malicious actor sends a fake signal that fools a receiver into calculating a false position. The potential for positional spoofing and jamming presents a significant risk in a future world of autonomous vehicles and drone deliveries. The QZSS has added a new QZSS Navigation Message Authentication (QZNMA) service that can confirm which signals are the real ones and reject false ones. - The **Japan Atomic Energy Agency (JAEA)** signed an agreement with the JAXA in March to [create a specialized battery system that uses radioactive americium to create long-duration, maintenance-free batteries](https://news.satnews.com/2025/05/05/japan-creating-battery-that-can-run-for-100-years-in-outer-space/?ref=japanearthobserver.com) that can operate in the harsh lunar environment, where lunar days and nights each last 14 days and temperature can fluctuate between 120℃ during the day to -150℃ degrees at night. - The **JAXA AKARI** infrared astronomy mission operated from 2006 to 2011, but it is still yielding results (call it the long tail of open data). A Taiwanese team led by Terry Long Phan [used IR data from AKARI and the earlier IRAS mission to identify the location of a potential Planet 9](https://www.space.com/astronomy/solar-system/evidence-of-controversial-planet-9-uncovered-in-sky-surveys-taken-23-years-apart?ref=japanearthobserver.com). ![04-iras-akari-ir-planet9-data.webp](https://storage.ghost.io/c/54/e9/54e9159b-1345-41dd-b7dd-180de33edc5b/content/images/2025/05/04-iras-akari-ir-planet9-data.webp) *A comparison of the position of the candidate object in the IRAS data (left) and the AKARI data (right) and the distance in arcminutes between them. (Image credit: Phan et al (2025))* ### 🗺️ International Collaborations - **ispace** has [agreed to collaborate with Redwire on future lunar missions](https://spacenews.com/redwire-and-ispace-u-s-to-collaborate-on-lunar-missions/?ref=japanearthobserver.com) \[SpaceNews\]. The ispace U.S. subsidiary has a NASA CLPS contract through Draper Laboratory to send a lunar landar to the dark side of the moon in 2026\. Lunar missions that follow will leverage Redwire’s cameras, sensors, and other technology as well as using Redwire’s assembly and test facilities. This will be particularly convenient because ispace and Redwire are already co-located in the same Colorado location. - **GITAI** has created a [new U.S. subsidiary, **GITAI Defense and Space**, in Torrance, California focused on pursuing U.S. national security contracts](https://spacenews.com/gitai-creates-us-defense-subsidiary-to-chase-prime-government-contracts/?ref=japanearthobserver.com). GITAI already has contracts with the U.S. government to design and build robotic arms, satellites, and rovers. U.S. DoD and NASA require ownership by U.S. citizens, so the new company will be 51% owned by a U.S. trust company and 49% by GITAI USA, which is, in turn, owned by Japanese citizens and venture capital firms. - At the 10th Annual China Space Day (April 24), the **China National Space Administration (CNSA)** announced that it had [accepted applications for portions of the lunar samples collected by its Chang’e-5 mission](https://spacenews.com/china-to-lend-change-5-moon-samples-to-u-s-universities/?ref=japanearthobserver.com), including a Japanese research team from **Osaka University** as well as teams from France, Germany, UK, US, and Pakistan. - Japan is [considering joining the EU’s **Horizon Europe** R&D program as soon as 2026](https://asia.nikkei.com/Politics/International-relations/Japan-considers-joining-EU-s-100bn-science-research-initiative?ref=japanearthobserver.com). The companies and universities in countries that participate in the program are eligible to receive grants and contracts to carry our advanced R&D and innovation activities. South Korea joined earlier this year and Singapore is also considering joining. A consortium of 11 Japanese universities proposed the initiative in February, and I think the rapid move to make it happen is a testament to the degree to which the Trump administration’s actions are shaking up technology, investment, and diplomatic priorities. --- ## 📆 Asia-Pacific Conferences & Events This newsletter is mostly focused on Japan, but I also like to highlight events across the Asia-Pacific region. Some upcoming conferences in 2025 include: **May 2025** - [Global Space Exploration Conference (GLEX)](https://iafastro.directory/iac/browse/GLEX-2025/?ref=japanearthobserver.com) \- 7 - 9 May - New Delhi, India - [GeoSpace Bharat](https://geospacebharat.org/?ref=japanearthobserver.com) \- 14 - 16 May - Visakhapatnam, Andhra Pradesh, India - [Langkawi International Maritime and Aerospace Exhibition (LIMA)](https://lima2025.com/?ref=japanearthobserver.com) \- 20 - 24 May - Subang, Selangor, Malaysia - [Australian Space Summit and Exhibition](https://www.spaceconnectonline.com.au/ausspacesummitandexhibition/?ref=japanearthobserver.com) \- 27 - 28 May - Sydney, Australia - [Satellite Asia 2025](https://asiatechxsg.com/satelliteasia/?ref=japanearthobserver.com) \- 27 - 29 May - Singapore **June 2025** - [APSAT International Conference](https://apsat.assi.or.id/?ref=japanearthobserver.com) \- 2 - 3 June - Jakarta, Indonesia - [International Space Summit](https://www.iss2025.com/en/main?ref=japanearthobserver.com) \- 3 - 5 June - Daejeon, South Korea - [International Workshop on Greenhouse Gas Measurements from Space (IWGGMS-21)](https://www.nies.go.jp/soc/en/events/iwggms21/?ref=japanearthobserver.com) \- 9 - 12 June - Takamatsu Japan - [Committee on Earth Observation Satellites (CEOS) Atmospheric Composition (AC) VC-21](https://ceos.org/meetings/ac-vc-21/?ref=japanearthobserver.com) \- 9 - 13 June - Takamatsu, Japan - [9th Shanghai International Aerospace Technology and Equipment Exhibition](http://en.airexpochina.com/?ref=japanearthobserver.com) \- 11 - 13 June - Shanghai, China - [India Space Congress](https://www.indiaspacecongress.com/?ref=japanearthobserver.com) \- 27 - 27 June - New Delhi, India - [UN Committee on the Peaceful Uses of Outer Space (COPUOS)](https://www.unoosa.org/oosa/en/ourwork/copuos/2025/index.html?ref=japanearthobserver.com) 25 June - 4 July - Vienna, Austria - [37th Space Studies Program (SSP)](https://www.isunet.edu/ssp/?ref=japanearthobserver.com) \- 30 June - 22 Aug - Ansan, Gyeonggi, South Korea **July 2025** - [43rd Aerospace Numerical Simulation Technology Symposium](https://branch.jsass.or.jp/aerocom/ryu/ryu57/?ref=japanearthobserver.com) \- 2 - 4 July - Tokyo, Japan - [Spacetide](https://spacetide.jp/en/news/4225/?ref=japanearthobserver.com) \- 7 - 10 July - Tokyo, Japan - [Committee on Earth Observation Satellites (CEOS) Working Group on Calibration & Validation (WGCV)-55](https://ceos.org/meetings/wgcv-55/?ref=japanearthobserver.com) \- 8 - 11 July - Hyderabad, India - [35th International Symposium on Space Technology and Science (ISTS) & 14th Nano-Satellite Symposium (NSAT) Joint Symposium](https://ists.ne.jp/the35th/?ref=japanearthobserver.com) \- 12 - 18 July - Asti Tokushima, Japan - [18th Australian Space Forum](https://australianspaceforum.com.au/?ref=japanearthobserver.com) \- 15 - 16 July - Adelaide, South Australia, Australia - [IEEE Space](https://www.ieeespace.org/?ref=japanearthobserver.com) \- 21 - 23 July - Bengaluru, Karnataka, India - [SPEXA Space Business Exp](https://www.spexa.jp/tokyo/ja-jp.html?ref=japanearthobserver.com) \- 30 July - 1 Aug - Tokyo, Japan --- As a bonus, here are a few recordings of related seminars and events over the past few weeks: - KibouX Commercialization - the Post-ISS Era - [https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=jG-Sq\_Zgk7k](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=jG-Sq%5FZgk7k&ref=japanearthobserver.com) - TansaX Seminar - [https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=3DsQqlYMz3w](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=3DsQqlYMz3w&ref=japanearthobserver.com) - Space Strategy Fund Year 2 Information Session - [https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=tlgHMTVfksQ](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=tlgHMTVfksQ&ref=japanearthobserver.com) - Japan-Singapore Innovation & Space Financing Workshop at GSTCE event - [https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=JTIbsdtg6qE](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=JTIbsdtg6qE&ref=japanearthobserver.com) - JAXA H3 Rocket Development Update: [https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=v\_4ooNyVFWs](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=v%5F4ooNyVFWs&ref=japanearthobserver.com) --- # JMoD Satellite Infrastructure Investments ## Current JMoD Satellite Infrastructure For the past 25 years, Japan’s Ministry of Defense (JMoD) (防衛省) has been gradually building out satellite infrastructure in three key areas: 1. Intelligence, surveillance, and reconnaissance (ISR) 2. Communications and electronic eavesdropping 3. Positioning, navigation, and timing (PNT) Until the late 1990s Japan relied entirely on U.S. defense satellite infrastructure to provide these capabilities. However, the August 1998 [Taepodong](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Taepodong-1?ref=japanearthobserver.com) incident was a watershed moment. I wrote about this a bit in [JEO 2](https://www.japanearthobserver.com/japan-earth-observer-2-the-curious-orbits-of-qzss/#why-does-japan-need-its-own-satellite-navigation-system), but to briefly summarize, on 31 Aug 1998, North Korea tested the three-stage Taepodong-1 ballistic missile by launching it on a trajectory that took it right over the Japanese islands. A U.S. reconnaissance satellite detected the launch but did relay that very relevant information to the Japanese government until after the fact. The Japanese government had been concerned about DPRK missile capabilities for several years, but it had not allowed the Self-Defense Forces (SDF) (自衛隊) to build its own satellite infrastructure. Rather, JMoD was directed to use the U.S. GPS and ISR capabilities and contract with commercial firms for imagery. Since the U.S. application of Section 301 trade law caused the collapse of the domestic Japanese satellite manufacturing industry in the 1980s, this meant buying imagery from U.S. commercial firms like Digital Globe and Space Imagery (now Maxar). The so-called Taepodong Shock (テポドン・ショック) was Japan’s Sputnik moment and inspired a wholesale reexamination of both defense and space priorities. Three defense satellite programs were subsequently developed. **Intelligence, surveillance, and reconnaissance (ISR)** The blandly named Information Gathering Satellites (IGS) (情報収集衛星) would become a new constellation of synthetic aperture radar (SAR) and optical satellites that would provide surveillance and (missile launch) early warning. Starting in 2003, the IGS satellites were launched as pairs - one optical and one SAR - with capabilities improving over time. The technology initially borrowed from the civilian ALOS and JERS Earth observation satellites operated by JAXA, and they were likewise manufactured by Mitsubishi Electric. The most recent generation IGS-Optical-8 and IGS-Radar-8 were launched in 2024, and today there are eleven operational IGS satellites. **Communications and electronic eavesdropping** A constellation of communications and electronic eavesdropping satellites was also developed. These satellites were designed to operate in geostationary orbit with X-band communications capabilities. Rather than building, launching, and operating them directly, JMoD used a [private finance initiative (PFI)](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Private%5Ffinance%5Finitiative?ref=japanearthobserver.com). A PFI is a type of public-private partnership (PPP) originally developed in the UK. Under a PFI, a private firm or consortium of firms is contracted to build, own, and operate a public service. In this case JMoD signed a contract with **DSN Corporation**, a joint venture of SKY Perfect JSAT, NEC, NTT Communications, and Maeda Corporation, to build and operate an X-Band satellite network for the military. The first bird, DSN-1, more commonly known as Kirameki-1 (きらめき1号機), was not a standalone satellite. Whether DSN and JMoD were in a hurry or just trying to save some money, the defense payload was added to a JSAT commercial satellite, [Superbird-8](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Superbird-B3?ref=japanearthobserver.com). However, an overpressure accident during transportation damaged the satellite, and repairs took two years. Kirameki-1 finally went into orbit in April 2018\. By that time a dedicated defense mission, Kirameki-2 (DSN-2 or きらめき2号機), had already been launched in January 2017\. Kirameki-3 (きらめき3号機) was launched on an H3 rocket in November 2024\. These satellites have approximately 15-year lifetimes, and Kirameki-2 is currently expected to end operations in March 2030 and Kirameki-1 in June 2032. ![05-current-kirameki-config-jmod.png](https://storage.ghost.io/c/54/e9/54e9159b-1345-41dd-b7dd-180de33edc5b/content/images/2025/05/05-current-kirameki-config-jmod-1.png)([https://www.japanearthobserver.com/content/images/2025/05/05-current-kirameki-config-jmod.png](https://storage.ghost.io/c/54/e9/54e9159b-1345-41dd-b7dd-180de33edc5b/content/images/2025/05/05-current-kirameki-config-jmod.png?ref=japanearthobserver.com)) *Current Kirameki configuration as of September 2024 (just before the Kirameki-3 launch). Credit: JMoD* **Positioning, navigation, and timing (PNT)** The third constellation that arose from the Taepodong shock was the Quasi-Zenith Satellite System (QZSS) (準天頂衛星システム), a set of positioning and navigation satellites. Initially designed to augment the U.S. GPS system over the Asia-Pacific region, it may eventually be able to operate independently from the GPS. I wrote about this [in depth in JEO 2](https://www.japanearthobserver.com/japan-earth-observer-2-the-curious-orbits-of-qzss/#the-qzss-a-gps-for-japan-but-better), so I won’t recapitulate here. The current design for a 7-satellite constellation is almost complete. QZS-6 was launched in February 2025, and QZS-5 and QZS-7 are expected to launch later this year. While the QZSS satellites (aka Michibiki みちびき) use the core GPS signal design, they also sport augmentation signals to improve both positional accuracy, an anti-spoofing authentication service, and an emergency messaging services for disaster and crisis management. These satellites are managed directly by the Cabinet Office (内閣府) (rather than JMoD), but Japan has closely collaborated with with U.S. Dept of Defense to develop this constellation, and they clearly have dual use (civilian and military). There are plans to potentially expand the QZSS to 11 satellites, but I am not aware of a specific budget request to do this yet. ## Budget Requests for Next Generation Capabilities Based on a [FY2025 budget request published in September 2024](https://www8.cao.go.jp/space/comittee/dai114/siryou2-9.pdf?ref=japanearthobserver.com) \[in Japanese\], JMoD is planning four major investments in new satellite technology aimed at beefing up security, operational capabilities, and space domain awareness (SDA). This would have represented a huge increase in the space-related budget with almost JPY 600 billion. The approved budget trimmed back the request somewhat but still weighed in at JPY 550 billion (\~US $3.67 billion). ![06-jmod-budget-change.png](https://storage.ghost.io/c/54/e9/54e9159b-1345-41dd-b7dd-180de33edc5b/content/images/2025/05/06-jmod-budget-change-1.png) *Scale of increase of space-related defense budget for FY2025\. Note that the approved budget was somewhat lower at about JPY 550 billion. Credit: JMoD* Some of this increase is aimed at enabling Japan to develop a dedicated Space Wing as part of the Air Self Defense Force (ASDF), but most of the increase is hardware. The major new satellite programs include: 1. *Protected Anti-jam Tactical SATCOM (PATS)* 2. *Supplemental commercial LEO satellite communications* 3. *Next generation communications satellites* 4. *Satellite constellation development* \- build a new, dedicated surveillance satellite constellation centered on SAR with some supplemental optical sensors **PATS Equipment** The U.S. is leading development of a next-generation satellite-based defense communications system that will be shared by allies. Known as the Protected Anti-jam Tactical SATCOM (PATS), Japan will invest JPY 2.2 billion (\~ US $14.67 million) in equipment to connect to PATS. Deployment and testing of PATS-compatible equipment is expected to run through FY2029. **Commercial LEO Satellite Communications Equipment** In order to supplement communications capacity on Maritime Self-Defense Force (MSDF) ships, JMoD will install receiver equipment that can leverage contemporary, high bandwidth, commercial LEO communications satellites. In addition, JMoD anticipates that this will enable MSDF crew to use the additional bandwidth to consume internet services and remain better connected with their families. This sounds to me like “let’s write a check to SpaceX Starlink so that our MSDF sailors can check their email and Facetime their families.” I did not see any budget line items labeled “Starlink”, but I’m [pretty sure that’s what it is](https://english.kyodonews.net/news/2024/06/55aaddcdae34-japan-sdf-trialing-starlink-for-ship-crews-personal-internet-use.html?ref=japanearthobserver.com). There were 16 vessels equipped in FY2024, 47 more will get the equipment in FY2025, and the remainder in FY2026\. At JPY 600 million (\~ US $4 million) in FY2025, the quality of life improvement for sailors is probably a pretty good deal. **Beyond Kirameki for Comms** As outlined above, two of the three Kirameki X-band communications satellites have an expected end-of-life in 2030 and 2032, respectively, so JMoD thinks it is time to start designing and developing the next generation. Development of the Next Generation Defense Communications Satellite System (次期防衛通信衛星等の整備) (acronym and cute name forthcoming) is going to start this year. Survey, design, and construction of the ground segment sites and equipment will cost about JPY 550 million (\~ US $3.67 million) this year and will run through JFY 2029\. The satellites will be the big ticket items and have been allocated JPY $123.6 billion (\~ US $824 million) in FY2025\. The plan is that they will be ready by JFY 2029 for a JFY 2030 launch, testing, and operation. Will they continue the X-band geostationary template set by Kirameki? What will the constellation configuration be? Will they be compatible with Kiramekis? (I assume they won’t be tossing the shiny new Kirameki-3 satellite in the dustbin). I don’t know the answer to these questions, but if you do, drop me a line. **SAR-y Eyed Vision** The fourth investment will cost more than the other three put together by a significant margin. JMoD wants to develop a new satellite constellation for intelligence, surveillance, and reconnaissance (衛星コンステレーションの整備・運営等事業) beginning this year \[h/t to [Joe Morrison](https://www.linkedin.com/in/joe-morrison/?ref=japanearthobserver.com) for the info\]. In addition to the IGS constellation, JMoD already procures imagery from a range of domestic and foreign commercial SAR and optical satellite constellations for imagery, but these operators cannot always obtain images at the timing and frequency that JMoD wants. Further, there are new concerns about potential restrictions by operators or governments in a time of crisis. So-called “shutter control” was recently exercised against Ukraine by the United States, and this behavior by the U.S. has raised new concerns among U.S. allies as well as a surge of interest in “sovereign” capabilities. JMoD will not build and operate the new constellation itself, but, rather, will use the same private finance initiative (PFI) procurement mechanism that they used for the Kirameki communications satellites. This means they will contract with a private commercial operator (or, more likely, a consortium) to build, own, and operate the constellation and necessary ground station infrastructure. JMoD will have priority access to the capabilities but the private operator will also be able to sell imagery to other clients in order to recoup costs. The FY2025 budget request was for JPY 323.2 billion, but the approved budget was reduced to JPY 283.2 billion (\~ US $1.89 billion). Even with the reduction, that’s still a lot of money. For perspective, it is more than the combined market cap of the two commercial Japanese SAR companies, Synspective (JPY 129.83 billion) and iQPS (JPY 77.43 billion), combined. There is a fairly detailed [Implementation Plan (実施方針)](https://www.mod.go.jp/j/budget/release/pfi/satellite%5Fconstellation/20250408/pdf/extra%5Fissue.pdf?ref=japanearthobserver.com) \[in Japanese\] available online, and here’s what I could glean from the document. First, this will be a SAR-central constellation. SAR provides visibility under all weather and day/night conditions. Optical sensors will supplement this with high-resolution visual or multi-spectral imagery when conditions are clear. JMoD is prioritizing high revisit cadence over Japan and surrounding regions; once fully operational, at least one satellite should always have a shot at any location in the region. The successful provider will also need to develop a dedicated ground segment (専用地上施設) secured for defense-related data handling. JMoD clearly wants a domestic, sovereign capability; all satellites must be domestically produced (国産衛星). Assuming a successful bidder will be a consortium, all members must be Japanese legal entities, including subcontractors. The lead company must have top-tier JMoD procurement credentials of rank A for manufacturing, sales, and services in the Tokyo region. Any company doing the actual satellite operation and imagery collection must have experience building and operating similar satellites and they have to be in orbit at the time of the proposal submission. This probably means Synspective, iQPS, or both will have to be part of any successful consortium. Mitsubishi Electric recently bought a stake in Synspective, and SKY Perfect JSAT was an early investor in iQPS, so that suggests the kernels of two potential consortia. The PFI procurement structure will require the team to take on significant upfront costs and risks, so the team will need substantial financial muscle to carry the investment costs until satellites are launched and operational. The project plan anticipates a two-year deployment process across JFY 2026 and 2027, and the winning team may use foreign rideshare launch capabilities in order to meet the aggressive deployment timeline. Full constellation operation is expected by April 1, 2028 (JFY 2028) and operations to continue through at least March 2031 with an option to extend the service period after that. The initial RFI will be released on May 27\. The formal RFP will be released in July and a two-stage submission process will run through October with a final decision to be made around December 2025 and a contract expected to be in place by February 2026 for a formal April 2026 start date. Good luck to all of the folks at Synspective, iQPS, Melco, JSAT and other that will likely be burning the midnight oil over the next few months as they prepare their RFI and RFP submissions. The United States government has directed a lot of whinging about defense cost sharing toward Europe, Japan, and others over the past couple of decades. These new JMoD investments have been in motion for at least a couple of years, but the recent tariff fracas plus U.S. behavior in Ukraine and elsewhere have likely injected new urgency into these and other defense procurement initiatives. Further, the focus on bulking up domestic design and manufacturing capacity is aimed not only at control in a crisis situation but also ensuring that Japan has one or more national champions that can be globally competitive. Unsurprisingly, both Synspective and iQPS have enjoyed a fillip to their share prices over the past month. --- If you’ve made it this far, thank you for reading. Please be in touch via [LinkedIn](https://www.linkedin.com/in/rcheetham/?ref=japanearthobserver.com) with any feedback, questions, comments, or requests for future topics. And if you have a friend or colleague that you think would enjoy JEO, please feel free to share it! Until next time, Robert --- It has a scent, but I can’t see My neighbor’s plum tree. – Miura Chora (1729 - 1780) - translated by William Scott Wilson 匂ひして 隣の梅の 見えぬかな *nioi shite* *tonari no ume no* *mienu kana* ### JEO 4 - Japan’s High Tech Labor Pains URL: https://www.japanearthobserver.com/jeo-4-japans-high-tech-labor-pains/ Last updated: 2025-04-09T12:47:47.000Z *Welcome to Japan Earth Observer (JEO), a free monthly newsletter with a news roundup and one in-depth article about the space, Earth observation and geospatial industries in Japan. In addition to a news roundup, in this edition I’m also going to write a bit about demographic and labor market challenges that Japan faces in its attempts to grow the industry.* ## News & Announcements ### 💱 Contracts and Funding - **SKY Perfect JSAT** has signed [a second contract with Thales Alenia Space to build and deliver the JSAT-32](https://spacenews.com/thales-alenia-space-wins-sky-perfect-jsat-order-in-tight-geo-market/?ref=japanearthobserver.com) \[SpaceNews\] communications satellite. The 3.7 ton satellite will operate Ku- and Ka-band broadband and broadcast services in geostationary orbit over Japan and the Asia-Pacific region. Delivery is aimed at a 2027 launch and will use the Spacebus 4000B2 bus. - **Synspective** has signed a [contract with SpaceX for two of its StriX satellites to be launched](https://synspective.com/press-release/2025/spacex%5Frideshare%5Fcontract/?ref=japanearthobserver.com) on a rideshare in 2027\. The announcement does not indicate if this will be a Transporter (sun-synchronous orbit) or a Bandwagon (mid-inclination orbit), but this appears to be on top of the 10 dedicated launches already signed with RocketLab for 2025 to 2027\. Is Synspective hedging its launch vehicle bets or accelerating its buildout? Is SpaceX just cheaper? Or is the RocketLab launch schedule constrained in some way? - U.S. space station startup, **Vast**, is seeking investment partners in Japan. CEO Max [Haot visited Tokyo in February to meet with potential minority investors for the Haven orbital space stations](https://asia.nikkei.com/Business/Aerospace-Defense-Industries/Space-station-startup-aims-for-out-of-this-world-drug-factories%20?ref=japanearthobserver.com) \[Nikkei Asia\] they are developing. Vast is playing catch up. The **Mitsui & Co** trading house invested in Axiom Space in 2021; **Kanematsu** contributed funding to Sierra Space in 2022; and **Mitsubishi** bought a stake in Starlab last year. While it got a late start, Vast may pull ahead with its first space station module, Haven-1, currently expected to launch in May 2026\. All of these firms are racing to replace the capabilities of the International Space Station (ISS), which is expected to be de-orbited around 2030. - **ispace** stuff: - **ispace** and **SpaceData** signed an MoU to collaborate on [creating a high precision digital twin of the lunar surface](https://ispace-inc.com/news-en/?p=7143&ref=japanearthobserver.com) \[ispace\]. By developing a detailed topographical model of the Moon, the two companies hope to be able to carry out physical simulations of lunar surface conditions in order to reduce costs and risks of lunar exploration mission. - **ispace** received an additional [US $7.7 million from Draper under the NASA CLPS CP-12 contract](https://ispace-inc.com/news-en/?p=7152&ref=japanearthobserver.com) to support development of the ispace-US APEX 1.0 lunar lander. This lander is considered “Mission 3” by ispace and is planned for a 2026 launch. - **ispace** also signed a contract with [**Kurita Water Industries** to transport a water processing system to the lunar surface](https://ispace-inc.com/news-en/?p=7165&ref=japanearthobserver.com) to conduct demonstration tests on an ispace lunar mission after 2027\. The ability to purify water on the lunar surface promises to reduce the cost of supporting a future lunar base. - **Space Strategy Fund details** are starting to trickle out. I wrote a [deep dive on the JPY 1 trillion JAXA-administered fund](https://www.japanearthobserver.com/jeo-3-japans-space-strategy-fund/#japans-space-strategy-fund-space-industrial-policy-at-scale) a few weeks ago. The RFPs starting being issued in July 2024 with almost all of the initial awards announced by February this year. However, while funding recipients were made public by JAXA, the funding amounts and award periods were not. That’s starting to change, and the publicly traded companies, at least, are sharing additional details. The Space Strategy Fund has three major priorities - transportation, satellites, and exploration - and the following two awards fall under a satellites sub-theme called “accelerating the construction of commercial satellite constellations” (商業衛星コンステレーション構築加速化). - The **Q-shu Pioneers of Space (iQPS)** [initial block of funding will be JPY 8.465 billion (\~US $56 million) and will run through March 2027](https://ssl4.eir-parts.net/doc/5595/tdnet/2584040/00.pdf?ref=japanearthobserver.com) \[in Japanese\] (implementation work may continue to March 2029), and this first tranche could increase based on achievement of milestones. iQPS has indicated that they have already begun manufacturing on satellite #18\. Current manufacturing will continue to be self-funded, and they will use the new funding to subsidize development, manufacturing, and launch costs starting with satellite #22. - **Synspective**, an iQPS rival aiming to build a SAR constellation of 30 birds by the late 2020s, will receive an [initial Strategy Fund tranche of JPY 16.464 billion (\~US $110 million)](https://contents.xj-storage.jp/xcontents/AS04951/b6d7a3de/c34f/4d9d/b32e/dd5a84955118/140120250306589324.pdf?ref=japanearthobserver.com) and will also run through 31 March 2027\. Similar to iQPS, implementation may continue to March 2030, and the first batch of funding may be followed by additional funds if hit specific milestones. - Speaking of the **Strategy Fund**, JAXA has [announced the 2025 themes](https://fund.jaxa.jp/content/uploads/yokoku20250327.pdf?ref=japanearthobserver.com) \[in Japanese\]. The full 2025 solicitation cycle will include 24 themes (up from 22 last year) across the three main priority areas: transportation (5 themes); satellite tech (11 themes); exploration (5 themes); and cross-cutting topics (3 themes). JAXA says they will post an RFP announcement about a month prior to posting for formal RFPs. Applicants will have about 6-8 weeks to prepare proposals. Formal RFPs for the first three themes will include: 1) rocket components contributing to high frequency launch schedules; 2) feasibility studies for satellite buses and optical communication terminals for satellite optical communication; and 3) foundational technology for constructing lunar infrastructure. JAXA is organizing in-person [information sessions for each priority area in April](https://fund.jaxa.jp/content/uploads/20250421-23ryouikibetsu%5F0328.pdf?ref=japanearthobserver.com) \[in Japanese\]. *Drop me a line if you would like the full list of themes in English.* - **Astroscale UK** won the [first commercial sale of its Docking Plate (DP) technology](https://payloadspace.com/airbus-buys-first-batch-of-astroscale-satellite-removal-docking-plates/?ref=japanearthobserver.com) with an order for a minimum of 100 of its second generation plates by Airbus for delivery through June 2026\. Citing a confidentiality agreement, Astroscale did not disclose any additional details about the Airbus deal, but Airbus Defense and Space signed the ESA’s [Zero Debris Charter](https://www.esa.int/Space%5FSafety/Clean%5FSpace/The%5FZero%5FDebris%5FCharter?ref=japanearthobserver.com) in 2024, and this deal represents a concrete step toward realizing this commitment. A [second generation docking plate was launched on a customer satellite for the first time with the SpaceX Transporter-12 mission](https://astroscale.com/flight-heritage-for-astroscales-second-generation-docking-plate/?ref=japanearthobserver.com) \[Astroscale\] on 14 January. In a 14 March earnings call, Astroscale shared that its standardized [docking plates are now flying on 569 satellites](https://contents.xj-storage.jp/xcontents/AS82438/cb308da3/d4fc/4a9e/842f/df5d37ba20e5/20250314145951233s.pdf?ref=japanearthobserver.com) \[Astroscale see p. 10\]. These standardized docking plates have been developed based on experience gained in the ELSA-d and ADRAS-J missions, are designed to last at least 15 years, support both magnetic and robotic arm docking, and have been tested to endure radiation, UV exposure, vibration, and shock. - A standardized docking plate is a great example of a decidedly non-flashy technology that could have an out-sized impact in reducing orbital debris if it is widely used. But the key to a successful standard is broad adoption, and I wonder if Astroscale has considered licensing or even open sourcing the hardware design in order to further encourage use on every satellite or rocket body sent into orbit. - Another satellite servicing company, [Orbit Fab](https://www.orbitfab.com/?ref=japanearthobserver.com), is focused on refueling missions and is making a similar play to Astroscale by installing its RAFTI refueling ports on new satellites. Interestingly, the RAFTI design *is* released under an open license, defining the mechanical, electrical, and functional specifications for the ports such that other companies could manufacture them. ![02-astroscale-docking-plate-brochure.png](https://storage.ghost.io/c/54/e9/54e9159b-1345-41dd-b7dd-180de33edc5b/content/images/2025/04/02-astroscale-docking-plate-brochure.png) *Astroscale’s second generation docking plate mounted on a satellite loaded for hhe SpaceX Transporter 12 rideshare. Credit: SpaceX* ### 🛰️ Technology and Infrastructure - **Tellus** will start providing data from the GOSAT and GOSAT-2 satellites through a web application in March 2025\. Tellus already provides a range of Japanese government data through both an API and its Traveler web UI. The two Greenhouse Gas Observing Satellites (GOSAT), also known as Ibuki and Ibuki 2 (いぶき and いぶき2号) have been flying since 2009 and 2018, respectively, and each mounts two sensors for greenhouse gas detection and cloud/aerosol detection. The [GOSAT data has been distributed since 2008](https://data2.gosat.nies.go.jp/index%5Fen.html?ref=japanearthobserver.com) by the Ministry of the Environment (MOE) through the National Institute for Environmental Studies (NIES) in a specialized format, and the Tellus distribution is expected to make it more accessible. MOE is also expanding use of the GOSAT satellites by [using them to track greenhouse gases in Central Asia](https://asia.nikkei.com/Spotlight/Environment/Climate-Change/Japan-uses-satellites-to-expand-greenhouse-gas-tracking-in-Asia?ref=japanearthobserver.com) \[Nikkei Asia\], including: Mongolia, Uzbekistan, Kazakhstan, Tajikistan and Kyrgyzstan, with Turkmenistan being added in 2026. - **iQPS** added a [new synthetic aperture radar (SAR) satellite to its constellation with a dedicated RocketLab launch](https://spacenews.com/rocket-lab-launches-japanese-sar-satellite/?ref=japanearthobserver.com) \[SpaceNews\] on 14 March. QPS-SAR-9 (nicknamed SUSANOO-I or スサノオ- I) is the first of eight contracted iQPS launches with RocketLab with six planned for 2025 and two in 2026. - **Axelspace** announced that they’ve been [able to recover control of their GRUS-1E microsat](https://www.axelspace.com/news/news%5F20250331/?ref=japanearthobserver.com) \[Axelspace\] which lost attitudinal control on 20 December 2024\. The 55kg optical bird is part of a five-satellite constellation. ### 🔭 Science - A joint project led by Professor Kawanishi Tetsuya at **Waseda University** and the Sensor Research Group at **JAXA** has [successfully tested a prototype wireless communications system with a 4 Gbps transmission speed over 4.4 km distance using the 95 GHz band](https://www.jaxa.jp/press/2025/03/20250311-2%5Fj.html?ref=japanearthobserver.com) \[JAXA\]. Currently most air-to-ground and orbit-to-ground communications links operate on either the X-band (8 GHz band) or Ka-band (26 - 40 GHz), but data transmission in these bands is limited to a few hundred Mbps to several Gbps. By using high altitude platform stations (HAPS) or aircraft flying at 20km or less, multiple channels in the terahertz range (92 GHz - 104 GHz) can be combined to achieve high capacity data transmission in excess of 20 Gbps. Future research will focus on increasing the transmission distance to 20 km, increasing transmission speed of 20 Gbps, and improving antenna tracking capabilities for flying objects. This research is aimed at providing airborne high speed regional networks for mountains areas and remote islands as well as supporting ad hoc networks in disaster scenarios. ### 🗺️ International Collaborations - The [**SpaceX Crew Dragon-10** successfully launched on March 14](https://spacenews.com/crew-10-launches-to-space-station/?ref=japanearthobserver.com) \[SpaceNews\] from Kennedy Space Center Pad 39A carrying two U.S. astronauts, a Russian Cosmonaut, and a veteran JAXA astronaut Onishi Takuya (大西 卓哉) to the ISS and [docked early on March 16](https://www.space.com/space-exploration/international-space-station/spacex-crew-10-astronaut-mission-international-space-station-docking?ref=japanearthobserver.com) \[Space.com\] for an expected six month mission. Onishi has been a JAXA astronaut since 2009 and previously spent 115 days at the ISS in 2016 as part of Expedition 48/49\. Before being selected as a JAXA astronaut in 2009, he was a pilot for All Nippon Airways. - The **SpaceX Crew Dragon-11** [roster has been announced and it includes Yui Kimiya](https://www.nasa.gov/blogs/commercialcrew/2025/03/27/nasa-shares-spacex-crew-11-assignments-for-space-station-mission/?utm%5Fsource=ActiveCampaign&utm%5Fmedium=email&utm%5Fcontent=China%20s%20plan%20to%20search%20for%20life%20in%20the%20solar%20system&utm%5Fcampaign=FIRST%20UP%202025-03-28) (油井 亀美也), a veteran JAXA astronaut that will be returning to the ISS for the second time. His previous trip was for 142 days in 2015 as part of Expedition 44/45, when he directed the arrival of HTV-5 JAXA resupply ship, carried out two spacewalks and did experimental work on the Kibo module. Before his career as a JAXA astronaut, he was a test pilot and later Lieutenant Colonel in the Japan Air Self-Defense Force. - **Synspective** has [set up two new U.S. subsidiaries](https://synspective.com/press-release/2025/usa%5Fsubsidary/?ref=japanearthobserver.com), a holding company and an operating company. The new subsidiary will be aimed at selling Synspective’s SAR imagery into the North American and Latin American markets and will be run by Dr. Kumar Navulur, who is also on the Board of the [Open Geospatial Consortium (OGC)](https://www.ogc.org/?ref=japanearthobserver.com). - **Expo Osaka 2025**, opening on 13 April, will have [a USA Pavilion that will feature space exploration milestones and highlight U.S.-Japan collaboration in space](https://jp.usembassy.gov/state-department-previews-immersive-space-exhibit-at-expo-2025/?ref=japanearthobserver.com) \[U.S. State Dept\] with a theme of “Imagine What We Can Create Together.” That theme rings a little hollow in light of the recent tariff announcements, but if you want to learn more [there is a web site](https://usapavilion.us/?ref=japanearthobserver.com). This expo has been [plagued by budget overruns, construction delays](https://asia.nikkei.com/Spotlight/Asia-Insight/Japan-s-Expo-2025-Osaka-triumph-or-billion-dollar-folly?ref=japanearthobserver.com) \[Nikkei Asia\], conflict, and controversy, and [ticket sales have been tepid so far](https://www.japantimes.co.jp/news/2025/02/04/japan/society/osaka-expo/?ref=japanearthobserver.com) \[Japan Times\]. That stands in stark contrast to the 1970 Osaka Expo (大阪万博), which was an astonishing triumph. It was the first international expo held in Asia, and almost 65 million people attended, an attendance record that was not surpassed until the 2010 Shanghai Expo. It was also the rare expo that turned a profit, and its site, the Expo ‘70 Commemorative Park remains popular with a range of museums, a stadium, and gardens. No such high-minded aspirations are on deck for the 2025 Expo site, which will be turned into Japan’s first casino. ![03-expo-osaka-usa-pavilion.jpg](https://storage.ghost.io/c/54/e9/54e9159b-1345-41dd-b7dd-180de33edc5b/content/images/2025/04/03-expo-osaka-usa-pavilion.jpg) *Aerial view of Expo Osaka USA Pavilion Credit: U.S. State Department* - **Axelspace** and **Synspective** provided satellite imagery to [UN-SPIDER](https://www.un-spider.org/?ref=japanearthobserver.com) for earthquake damage assessment in Myanmar. Unfortunately, unlike some of their EO competitors, neither company operates an open data program. Nor was I able to find a formal disaster response policy or program. So if anyone wanted to use the data to support disaster response (for example, the [Humanitarian OpenStreetMap Team’s Myanmar mapping effort](https://tasks.hotosm.org/projects/18577?ref=japanearthobserver.com)), they would likely have to go through UN-SPIDER. That seems like a lost opportunity for both firms as well as the collective response effort. ![04-myanmar-synspective-bridge.jpg](https://storage.ghost.io/c/54/e9/54e9159b-1345-41dd-b7dd-180de33edc5b/content/images/2025/04/04-myanmar-synspective-bridge.jpg) *Synspective SAR image of collapsed Myanmar bridge. Credit: Synspective* - **Japan-India Collaboration** - **Astroscale** announced [partnership agreements with Digantara and Bellatrix Aerospace in India](https://www.reuters.com/technology/space/japans-space-debris-firm-astroscale-tie-up-with-indias-digantara-bellatrix-2025-03-21/?ref=japanearthobserver.com) \[Reuters\]. Astroscale will gain access to the rapidly growing India market through the new partners, who will likewise gain access to the Japan market. Digantara provides orbital monitoring services (space situational awareness) and Bellatrix makes satellite propulsion systems. The partnership announcement does not include financial terms, but presumably the partners will team to bid on contracts together. - Skyperfect JSAT-spinoff **Orbital Lasers** made [a similar agreement with InspeCity in December](https://www.reuters.com/science/japan-india-startups-study-laser-equipped-satellite-tackle-space-debris-2024-12-17/?ref=japanearthobserver.com). Orbital Lasers is testing technology that can be mounted on satellites like InspeCity’s and used to ablate surfaces on a spinning satellite in order to stop the spin and make it easier to deorbit. - Funding for the **ISRO-JAXA Chandrayaan-5 mission** has been [approved by the Indian government](https://www.thehindu.com/sci-tech/science/centre-has-accorded-approval-for-chandrayaan-5-mission-isro-chief/article69337932.ece?ref=japanearthobserver.com) \[The Hindu\]. Also known as LUPEX, the mission will deliver a 350 kg rover to the permanently shadowed south pole region of the lunar surface to search for water sources. JAXA is expected to provide the H3 rocket to launch the probe from Tanegashima in 2028-2029\. The lander will be built by ISRO, and the rover will be developed by JAXA for a planned 100 day mission. There will be 10 science payloads: five from JAXA, three from ISRO, and one each from NASA and ESA. ![05-jaxa-isro-lupex-plan.png](https://storage.ghost.io/c/54/e9/54e9159b-1345-41dd-b7dd-180de33edc5b/content/images/2025/04/05-jaxa-isro-lupex-plan.png) *Design renderings of Lupex mission. Credit: JAXA* ## 📆 Asia-Pacific Conferences & Events This newsletter is mostly focused on Japan, but I also like to highlight events across the Asia-Pacific region as well. Some upcoming conferences include: **April 2025** - [Locate25](https://locate.geospatialcouncil.org.au/?ref=japanearthobserver.com) \- 6 - 10 April - Brisbane, Australia - [International Conference of Deep Space Sciences](https://www.spaceagenda.com/event/2025-international-conference-of-deep-space-sciences/?ref=japanearthobserver.com) \- 7 - 11 April - Hefei, Anhui, China - [CSIS Webinar: Deepening the U.S.-Japan Space Security Relationship](https://www.csis.org/events/deepening-us-japan-space-security-relationship?ref=japanearthobserver.com) \- 11 April, 1p - 4p ET, Washington DC, United States - [Apophis T-4 Years: Workshop on Planetary Defense](https://www.hou.usra.edu/meetings/apophis2025/registration/?ref=japanearthobserver.com) \- 9 - 10 April - Tokyo, Japan - [Drones and Uncrewed Asia](https://www.dronesasia.com/?ref=japanearthobserver.com) \- 9 - 10 April - Singapore - [GEO Connect Asia](https://www.geoconnectasia.com/?ref=japanearthobserver.com) \- 9 - 10 April - Singapore - [Earth Observation Data Use Business Community (BizEarth)](https://earth.jaxa.jp/conseo/news/20250314-1.html?ref=japanearthobserver.com) (地球観測データ利用ビジネスコミュニティ) - 21 April - Tokyo, Japan - 10th China Space Day - 24 April - Shanghai, China - marks anniversary of China’s first satellite launch, Dongfanghong-1 in 1970 - [3rd Machine Learning for Remote Sensing (ML4RS) Workshop](https://ml-for-rs.github.io/iclr2025/?ref=japanearthobserver.com) \- 27 April - Singapore - [Cloud Native Geospatial (CNG) Conference](https://2025-ut.cloudnativegeo.org/?ref=japanearthobserver.com) \- 30 April - 2 May - Snowbird, Utah, United States - this conference isn’t in the Asia-Pacific region, but it’s a unique event for which there isn’t yet a regional equivalent **May 2025** - [Global Space Exploration Conference (GLEX)](https://iafastro.directory/iac/browse/GLEX-2025/?ref=japanearthobserver.com) \- 7 - 9 May - New Delhi, India - [GeoSpace Bharat](https://geospacebharat.org/?ref=japanearthobserver.com) \- 14 - 16 May - Visakhapatnam, Andhra Pradesh, India - [Langkawi International Maritime and Aerospace Exhibition (LIMA)](https://lima2025.com/?ref=japanearthobserver.com) \- 20 - 24 May - Subang, Selangor, Malaysia - [Australian Space Summit and Exhibition](https://www.spaceconnectonline.com.au/ausspacesummitandexhibition/?ref=japanearthobserver.com) \- 27 - 28 May - Sydney, Australia - [Satellite Asia 2025](https://asiatechxsg.com/satelliteasia/?ref=japanearthobserver.com) \- 27 - 29 May - Singapore **June 2025** - [APSAT International Conference](https://apsat.assi.or.id/?ref=japanearthobserver.com) \- 2 - 3 June - Jakarta, Indonesia - [International Space Summit](https://www.iss2025.com/en/main?ref=japanearthobserver.com) \- 3 - 5 June - Daejeon, South Korea - [9th Shanghai International Aerospace Technology and Equipment Exhibition](http://en.airexpochina.com/?ref=japanearthobserver.com) \- 11 - 13 June - Shanghai, China - [India Space Congress](https://www.indiaspacecongress.com/?ref=japanearthobserver.com) \- 27 - 27 June - New Delhi, India - [UN Committee on the Peaceful Uses of Outer Space (COPUOS)](https://www.unoosa.org/oosa/en/ourwork/copuos/2025/index.html?ref=japanearthobserver.com) 25 June - 4 July - Vienna, Austria - [37th Space Studies Program (SSP)](https://www.isunet.edu/ssp/?ref=japanearthobserver.com) \- 30 June - 22 Aug - Ansan, Gyeonggi, South Korea **July 2025** - [43rd Aerospace Numerical Simulation Technology Symposium](https://branch.jsass.or.jp/aerocom/ryu/ryu57/?ref=japanearthobserver.com) \- 2 - 4 July - Tokyo, Japan - [Spacetide](https://spacetide.jp/en/news/4225/?ref=japanearthobserver.com) \- 7 - 10 July - Tokyo, Japan - [35th International Symposium on Space Technology and Science (ISTS) & 14th Nano-Satellite Symposium (NSAT) Joint Symposium](https://ists.ne.jp/the35th/?ref=japanearthobserver.com) \- 12 - 18 July - Asti Tokushima, Japan - [18th Australian Space Forum](https://australianspaceforum.com.au/?ref=japanearthobserver.com) \- 15 - 16 July - Adelaide, South Australia, Australia - [IEEE Space](https://www.ieeespace.org/?ref=japanearthobserver.com) \- 21 - 23 July - Bengaluru, Karnataka, India - [SPEXA Space Business Exp](https://www.spexa.jp/tokyo/ja-jp.html?ref=japanearthobserver.com) \- 30 July - 1 Aug - Tokyo, Japan It’s not really a conference but Synspective is offering a free webinar on using SAR images with QGIS. You can sign up at [https://synspective.com/on-demand-class-2/2025/qgis\_ondemand/](https://synspective.com/on-demand-class-2/2025/qgis%5Fondemand/?ref=japanearthobserver.com). --- # Japan’s High Tech Labor Pains Even a casual observer of Japan will have likely learned that it faces significant demographic challenges. A steep fall in the birth rate and long life expectancies have combined to create a decline in both the absolute population and the working age population. ![07-oecd-japan-working-age-population.png](https://storage.ghost.io/c/54/e9/54e9159b-1345-41dd-b7dd-180de33edc5b/content/images/2025/04/07-oecd-japan-working-age-population.png) *Japan’s working age population 1970-2025\. Credit: OECD* The numbers are stark. In 2024, fewer than 721,000 babies were born out of a population of 123m. That is 5% fewer than the previous year and the ninth straight year of decline. Despite those long lives, deaths now outnumber births by more than two to one. Other advanced economies, like South Korea, Germany, and Italy also face declining working age populations, but while South Korea has even lower birth rates than Japan’s today, it only began its population decline in 2020, while Japan’s began in the mid-1990’s. By 2050, Japan’s working age population is forecast to be only 60% of its peak in 1995. ![06-japan-working-age-population.png](https://storage.ghost.io/c/54/e9/54e9159b-1345-41dd-b7dd-180de33edc5b/content/images/2025/04/06-japan-working-age-population.png) *Working age population projections 2000-2050\. Credit: OECD/Statista* The working age population really matters because the taxes paid by the working population fund support for the growing cohort of elderly. By 2030, one person in three will be over 65\. There are a myriad of reasons for the low birth rate: inflexible family laws, low financial support for child care, few child care facilities, expensive schooling, and fewer women choosing to marry and raise families. For example, while [parental leave laws appear generous on paper](https://www.tokhimo.com/post/maternity-paternity-and-childcare-leave-in-japan-1?ref=japanearthobserver.com) (both parents are eligible for a minimum of one year of paid leave), in actual practice mothers often lose their jobs, and a mix of company policy and social/cultural pressure mean that many fathers may only take a week or two of leave. A recent survey suggested that [52% of young people do not want to have children](https://unseen-japan.com/japan-youth-no-children/?ref=japanearthobserver.com) \[Unseen Japan\]. Some pioneering cities, like Akashi in Hyogo prefecture (west of Kobe) and Nagareyama outside Tokyo, have implemented long-term policy changes that have aimed to [radically improve public services for families raising children](https://www.economist.com/asia/2023/12/16/how-to-entice-japanese-couples-to-have-babies?ref=japanearthobserver.com) \[The Economist\]. These cities have seen significant population growth as a result, but they remain the exception and fundamental policy changes at the national level still seem far off. ![08-japan-pop-pyramid.png](https://storage.ghost.io/c/54/e9/54e9159b-1345-41dd-b7dd-180de33edc5b/content/images/2025/04/08-japan-pop-pyramid.png) *Japan population pyramids for 1950, 2005, and 2055\. Credit: Japan National Institute of Population and Social Security Research* ## Chronic labor shortages Japan now faces chronic labor shortages in almost every industry with [two-thirds of employers indicating they have too few workers](https://www.reuters.com/sustainability/sustainable-finance-reporting/japan-firms-face-serious-labour-crunch-aging-population-survey-shows-2025-01-15/?ref=japanearthobserver.com) \[Reuters\]. While there have been a range of policy responses, government policy often reflects contradictory priorities. For example, in an effort to reduce accidents and improve working conditions for truck drivers, restrictions on overtime were implemented in April 2024\. This created a huge shortage of truck drivers, significantly reducing transportation capacity and snarling logistics across the country. A shortage of construction workers has caused delays and budget overages on projects across the country, and agriculture, manufacturing, health care, and other industries all face chronic understaffing. The labor shortage is not limited to blue collar jobs like transportation, construction, and manufacturing. With the shift to EVs and self-driving vehicles, software has become as important as manufacturing expertise, and [Japanese carmakers now face an estimated shortage of 33,000 software professionals this year](https://asia.nikkei.com/Business/Automobiles/Japan-s-carmakers-fight-for-software-engineers-in-EV-self-driving-push?ref=japanearthobserver.com) \[Nikkei Asia\]. Japan is aiming to significantly expand the space economy and is attempting to shift from a relatively centralized workforce employed by government agencies and large corporations to a more diverse and dynamic industry structure that includes hundreds of small- and mid-sized ventures. The JPY 1 trillion Space Strategy Fund is helping to make this possible, but at the [Spacetide conference](https://spacetide.jp/conference/tide2024/?ref=japanearthobserver.com) in July 2024, every speaker from a Japanese space company cited workforce shortages as a significant challenge. The **Astroscale** CEO, Okada Nobu, estimates that [Japanese universities only graduate about 50 space engineering students](https://payloadspace.com/the-rise-of-japans-commercial-space-industry/%20?ref=japanearthobserver.com) \[Payload\] annually and building a company that can compete on the world stage will require AI, software, sales, marketing, and product managers, and it’s not clear that the domestic workforce will be sufficient. ## Responses to the labor shortage Given the broad concerns about labor shortages across all science, technology, and engineering roles, you would imagine that the government would be doing everything possible to both recruit and retain research and engineering talent. There are, indeed, many government policies and initiatives aimed at recruiting people for roles in high demand as well as a range of complementary industry responses. **Expand the workforce** If you don’t have enough workers, the most obvious step would be to increase the number of workers. Unemployment in Japan is very low, and the [labor force participation rate is already among the highest in the world](https://www.oecd.org/en/data/insights/statistical-releases/2025/01/labour-market-situation-updated-january-2025.html?ref=japanearthobserver.com) \[OECD\], clocking in at 81.7% (76.2% for women and 87% for men) of adults aged 15-64\. But Japan also has some of the healthiest senior citizens, so why not encourage those healthy elderly to keep on working? While France went through convulsions trying to raise the retirement age from 62 to 64, Japan implemented a new law in 2021 that effectively raised the retirement age from 65 to 70 without significant backlash. Employees are not required to work to that age, but employers are strongly encouraged (with some financial incentives) to offer one of several options to make it possible to continue working up to age 70, though not necessarily at the same salary and working conditions. **Immigration** Another obvious path to expanding the workforce is to fling open the doors to potential immigrants. Japanese public opinion toward immigration has long been ambivalent. Many Japanese recognize the need for immigration to deal with labor shortages, and some welcome the greater cultural diversity and revitalization this might bring. However, [there is general anxiety around the potential impact of large-scale immigration](https://www.u-tokyo.ac.jp/focus/en/features/z0508%5F00213.html?ref=japanearthobserver.com) \[Univ. of Tokyo\]. Many people associate immigrants with higher crime rates, and there are concerns about impacts on social cohesion and the culture. In general, most people view immigrants as “guests” rather than permanent members of society that will be integrated over the long term. While the government has not pursued policies that would allow large-scale immigration, the numbers have steadily increased for the past two decades and are expected to continue rising in the decades to come. The number of [foreign residents in Japan reached 3.77 million in 2024](https://asia.nikkei.com/Spotlight/Japan-immigration/Japan-foreign-population-grows-twice-as-fast-as-expected-on-worker-influx?ref=japanearthobserver.com) \[Nikkei Asia\], increasing by 10.5% in a single year. Visas for skilled worker programs rose by 36.5% since 2023 and so-called “highly skilled professionals” were up by 19.8%. There are also more [flexible conditions for digital nomad](https://japanevisa.net/blog/japan-launches-digital-nomad-visas-for-49-nations/?ref=japanearthobserver.com) and entrepreneur visas. While foreign residents from China outnumber every other country, much of the recent increase is from Vietnam, Nepal, Myanmar, Sri Lanka, and Indonesia. These increases are not necessarily coordinated actions between government and industry, but there are explicit government policies aimed at [increasing foreign direct investment and skilled technology workers from India and Southeast Asia](https://asia.nikkei.com/Spotlight/Japan-immigration/Japan-targets-India-and-Southeast-Asia-to-recruit-tech-workers?ref=japanearthobserver.com) \[Nikkei Asia\]. Japanese universities actively recruit foreign students and there is often a path to employment following graduation. Further, if a Japanese company wants to hire a highly skilled foreign worker, the process of acquiring a visa is relatively straightforward (I make this statement as a former employer and sponsor of advanced technology visa holders in the United States, where the process is extraordinarily bureaucratic, time-consuming, arbitrary, and expensive). **Improve working conditions** If there are not enough tech workers, an obvious strategy would be to provide better salary and working conditions in order to both attract new folks and retain the ones you have. While after 30 years of a flat economy, salaries in Japan are now below those in Europe and North America, and for the researcher, scientist, and technology roles, China and other parts of Asia have emerged as key competitors for the most talented workers. But there are some signs of upward movement on salaries, and more than half of office workplaces in Japan support [hybrid or fully remote positions](https://asia.nikkei.com/Business/Business-trends/Singapore-and-Japan-lead-Asia-s-shift-toward-flexible-working?ref=japanearthobserver.com) \[Nikkei Asia\]. Carmakers that are [struggling to recruit software engineers for the EV and self-driving future](https://asia.nikkei.com/Business/Automobiles/Japan-s-carmakers-fight-for-software-engineers-in-EV-self-driving-push?ref=japanearthobserver.com) \[Nikkei Asia\] are building attractive new offices in downtown Tokyo, replacing seniority pay scales with ability-based systems, abolishing mandatory retirement and recruiting mid-career professionals in India and Vietnam. **Formalize space industry career paths** Following the lead of cybersecurity, IT, and other advanced technology roles with constrained labor supplies, the Japanese government is [developing a set of standards to support career transitions to the space industry](https://asia.nikkei.com/Spotlight/Work/Japan-seeks-more-space-industry-talent-by-defining-roles?ref=japanearthobserver.com) \[Nikkei Asia\]. The new standards are being developed by JAXA and industry leaders and aim to clarify the skills being sought for the dozens of job categories involved in rocket and satellite development roles. The standards will also be used by universities to develop programs and curricula necessary to attract and train young professionals. While space industry workforce concerns are less pronounced in the United States, industry leaders have called for [similar measures to develop structured career pathways](https://spacenews.com/clearer-career-pathways-needed-to-sustain-space-industry-growth/?ref=japanearthobserver.com) \[SpaceNews\] in order to grow the workforce. **Build offshore outposts** I have been surprised by the number of Japanese space companies that open subsidiaries in Europe and North America at a much earlier stage than I would have expected. **Astroscale** already has offices in Israel, France, the UK, and the U.S., and **ispace** has outposts in Denver and Luxembourg. I think there are likely a number of reasons for this pattern. First, the domestic Japanese space marketplace is too small to reach the scale to grow and innovate at a speed necessary to be globally competitive, and opening an EU, UK, or North American subsidiary is a way to access the much larger customer markets in these regions. Second, the space industry remains highly reliant on governments as both a customer and R&D funding source, and governments are universally reluctant to fund R&D efforts occurring outside their borders. Third, rocketry and satellites always have national defense and intelligence applications, and export control regulations often require work to be performed domestically. Finally, though, and most relevant to the labor topic, opening a subsidiary in bigger labor markets provides access to a much larger pool of talent. ## Precarious careers from good intentions Above, I outlined a raft of tactics that the government and industry have been using to grapple with a very difficult workforce capacity challenge. However, other policy efforts have ended up having unintended and pernicious consequences that have been damaging and counterproductive. For the research, science, and technology communities, the single greatest recent disruption has been the delayed effects of a labor law reform enacted in 2013, during Prime Minister Abe’s administration. To understand the origins of this issue, I will have to delve a bit into both some history and some unique characteristics of labor conditions in Japan. Many people outside Japan have an image of Japanese workers joining a company after high school or university and then maintaining a lifetime employment relationship with a single company until retirement. However, this lifetime employment system and the archetypal salaryman, while real, has never represented all workers in Japan, and the number of so-called “regular employees” has been declining since the 1990s. Japan essentially has a two-track employment system. *Regular employees (正社員 or 正規雇用)* are usually recruited when they finish their schooling and tend to remain with a single employer for much of their working career. These positions have a great deal of job security; termination is possible but legally challenging. Regular employees must be provided with a range of mandatory social insurance benefits - health, pension, and unemployment - as well as retirement allowances, family allowances, bonuses and access to supplementary perks such as support for housing and commuting expenses. They generally enjoy higher social status and receive bonuses as well as structured, annual salary increases based on seniority. It is a bit like being a tenured professor at a university in North America. However, in exchange for permanent employment, higher pay, benefits, and status, employer expectations are almost unbounded; the employee may be expected to work hours, transfer to another company location, and other demonstrations of commitment to the organization. The relationship is sometimes described as “membership-based” employment (メンバーシップ型雇用), rather than “job-based employment” (ジョブ型雇用). Often a regular employee is not hired for a given set of skills, but rather to become a long-term member of the employer organization and may take on many different jobs over the course of a multi-decade career. *Non-regular employees (正社員以外 or 非正規雇用)* is a broad category that includes temporary workers (アルバイト), part-time (パートタイマー), workers dispatched by temp agencies (派遣社員), fixed-term contract employees (有期契約社員), task-based (or “entrusted”) contract employees (契約社員), and miscellaneous other forms of employment. There are stark gender- and age-based differences. Most regular positions are occupied by men, and while female workforce participation has risen the past several decades, the increase is primarily in non-regular employment. For workers age 65+, 77% are non-regular employees. Pay for non-regular employees is usually lower. On average, non-regular employees received about 67% of regular employees, but seniority-based pay for regular employees means that the discrepancy rises over time and while it [may be 10-20% wage gap for a young person, it rises to a 50% difference for a worker in their 50s](https://www5.cao.go.jp/zenbun/wp-e/wp-je06/06-00301.html?ref=japanearthobserver.com) \[Japan CAO\]. The pay discrepancy is notwithstanding the fact that non-regular employees often work alongside regular employees, performing the same work. Non-regular employees working more than 20 hours per week receive social insurance benefits (unemployment, health, and pension insurance), but they generally do not receive other benefits, opportunities for career advancement, bonuses, or pay increases. The number of regular employees rose with population growth until the early 1990s. The bursting of the real estate asset bubble in 1993 marked the beginning of a multi-decade economic stagnation. The ruling LDP party implemented a series of laws [deregulating the labor market, effectively making it easier for employers to shift people from regular to non-regular employment](https://apjjf.org/2014/12/15/scott-north/4106/article?ref=japanearthobserver.com) \[APJJF\]. All of those permanent employees and their benefits were expensive, and employers subsequently reduced the number of regular employees, and the number of non-regular employees rose from 16.4% of the workforce in 1985 to 36.7% in 2022\. The 2008-2009 financial crisis saw many temporary employees abruptly lose their jobs and public pressure grew to make employment less precarious. A series of labor law reforms were subsequently enacted from 2007 to 2022, effectively re-regulating the labor market and encouraging employers to shift more employees into regular employee status. Here’s a [graph summarizing the changes over the past 40-odd years](https://www.jil.go.jp/english/jli/documents/2023/044-05.pdf?ref=japanearthobserver.com) \[Takahashi\], with breakdowns by gender. ![09-2023-takahashi-employment-trends.png](https://storage.ghost.io/c/54/e9/54e9159b-1345-41dd-b7dd-180de33edc5b/content/images/2025/04/09-2023-takahashi-employment-trends.png) *Trends in regular and non-regular workers. Credit: Takahashi Koji, “Non-regular employment measures in Japan”, Japan Labor Issues, Autumn 2023.* Those labor market reforms that started in 2007 have worked…kinda. The number of regular employees has indeed started rising again. Further, more non-regular workers are now covered by social safety net provisions, like unemployment, health, and pension insurance. However, [significant wage gaps remain](https://www.jil.go.jp/english/jli/documents/2023/044-05.pdf?ref=japanearthobserver.com) \[Takahashi\]. Investment in [on-the-job training that might help workers advance their careers is actually falling](https://www5.cao.go.jp/j-j/wp/wp-je21/h06%5Fhz030201.html?ref=japanearthobserver.com) \[Japan CAO\], and some efforts to mandate conversion of long-term employees to regular status have had the opposite effect. And none of the new reforms cover freelancers or platform (gig) workers. Ok, so that was a quick thumbnail sketch of the labor market. You are probably wondering what this has to do with the space industry, or, more broadly, STEM workers in general. Enter the Revised Labor Contract Law of 2013 (改正労働契約法). This well-intentioned reform mandated that non-regular employees with fixed-term contracts could apply to become regular employees after 5 years. If they were researchers, then the time limit was 10 years. Essentially, if you are employing someone on fixed contracts for more than five (or ten) years, you won’t be able to keep doing that indefinitely and avoid providing them the benefits, raises, and job security you give to your regular employees. This was called the “Indefinite Term Conversion Rule” (無期転換ルール). Sounds good, right? Well, it hasn’t quite turned out that way. All of those benefits, job security, and extra pay are expensive, so instead of allowing workers to convert to regular employment (and raise their costs), many employers are simply firing people shortly before the five or ten year time limit arrives. Japan’s government R&D funding to universities and national labs has grown rapidly since the mid-1990s. That seems like good policy: the real estate bubble burst, and the economy is in the crapper, so you invest in research and infrastructure (the future). Japan doubled government research spending in 5 years. As the research projects proliferated, new researchers were hired under fixed-term (non-regular) contracts. This gave the research institutions a lot of flexibility - theoretically, if a research project lost its funding, they could cut the researchers loose - but in reality, most fixed-term employment contracts were renewed indefinitely. Then this new Conversion Rule arrives in April 2013\. If you are a researcher, you might initially be really happy; if you work hard on your research for 10 years, you will win regular (permanent) employee status, right?. But then in early March 2023, you receive notice that you have been fired instead, just weeks before you could request the conversion. And that is exactly what happened in universities and research labs across Japan. Further, for new research hires since 2013, almost no one receives a contract that will exceed 10 years. As an example, RIKEN, the National Science Lab (理化学研究所), was a significant beneficiary of the growth in research funding. In the mid-1990s, RIKEN had 400 employees, most of whom had regular status. [By 2022, RIKEN had grown to 2,893 workers](https://www.science.org/content/article/mass-layoff-looms-japanese-researchers?ref=japanearthobserver.com) \[Science\], but 77% of them were fixed-term (non-regular) workers. When the 10 year limit was reached in March 2023, some researchers were given regular status, but [out of 203 subject to the 10-year rule that year, 97 were terminated](https://www.tokyo-np.co.jp/article/252517?ref=japanearthobserver.com) \[Tokyo Shimbun\]. An additional number were demoted. Another 87 people left because their team leader had been terminated and the research team disbanded. By October 2024, it was reported that [1 in 8 researchers had lost their jobs](https://mainichi.jp/articles/20241016/k00/00m/040/205000c?ref=japanearthobserver.com) \[Mainichi Shimbun\] and the ripple effects extend well beyond the people directly affected. Almost 60% of researchers in Japan say that they have been negatively affected by the Conversion Rule. Many people that lost their jobs have had offers for similar roles at higher pay in China, Korea, and Taiwan. Some have managed to find new work at other research institutions in Japan (presumably, resetting the 10 year clock), but even when they are able to secure a new position, they will have to join or build a new team, procure new research equipment, and secure funding, setting back their research by months or years. I live in the United States, and over the past few weeks, I have had to watch mass layoffs at NIH, CDC, NSF, NASA, NOAA, universities, and other science and engineering organizations. So I suppose no government has a monopoly on opportunities to perpetrate arbitrary and pointless acts of cruelty. But whether it’s Japan’s Conversion Rule or DOGE in the United States, these types of actions are the definition of counterproductive and self-destructive. We all have to do better than this. Situations like the Conversion Rule are not isolated, and the lifetime employment system is being undermined on several fronts. It is becoming more common for regular employees to change jobs, and [almost a million people did so in 2024, an increase of more than 60% over the past 10 years](https://www.economist.com/asia/2025/03/27/japanese-people-are-starting-to-quit-their-jobs?ref=japanearthobserver.com) \[Economist\]. In a recent survey, only 21% of young Japanese employees indicated that they plan to stay with their employer until retirement. Younger workers are critical of the seniority-based pay and lifetime tenure that results in “old men that don’t work” (働かないおじさん). These senior staff collect much higher salaries, occupy senior management roles, and limit career growth for younger people. On the other hand, workers in their 40s and 50s may be more spry than the youngsters give them credit; the number of middle-aged job hoppers has increased 6x over the past ten years. A more dynamic workforce is developing, and it suggests significant changes are on the way for legacy institutions. Japan has accomplished a great deal in science, technology, and engineering over the past 150 years, often with modest resources. These accomplishments have required innovation and technological development, but the key to making them possible has always been the people that envision, invent, and eventually bring the ideas to reality. There were fewer than 9,000 people employed in Japan’s space industry in 2022, a small increase over 2020 and 2021, but a decrease over the employment levels in the mid-1990s and far short of what will be necessary if Japan is to meet its many goals in space over the next decade: multiple advanced remote sensing constellations, a large data analysis industry ecosystem, post-ISS LEO commercial development, lunar exploration, planetary exploration, and, all told, doubling the size of its space industry by the early 2030s. But lofty goals and financial support like the Space Strategy Fund will not be enough. The most important investments will be toward nurturing the current workforce while inviting both young people to enter the field and new entrants joining the field from other industries. They will not just be a “workforce”; they will be thousands of individuals that will need learning opportunities, great teams around them, and thoughtful leadership. If you’ve made it this far, thank you for reading. Please be in touch via [LinkedIn](https://www.linkedin.com/in/rcheetham/?ref=japanearthobserver.com) with any feedback, questions, comments, or requests for future topics. And if you have a friend or colleague that you think would enjoy JEO, please feel free to share it! Until next time, Robert --- The bush warbler Rephrasing itself again Rephrasing itself – Fukuda Chio-ni (1703-1775) 鶯や また言ひなほし 言ひなほし *Uguisu ya* *Mata iinaoshi* *Iinaoshi* ### JEO 3 - Japan's Space Strategy Fund URL: https://www.japanearthobserver.com/jeo-3-japans-space-strategy-fund/ Last updated: 2025-09-17T14:46:27.000Z *Welcome to Japan Earth Observer (JEO), a free monthly newsletter with a news roundup and one in-depth article about the space, Earth observation and geospatial industries in Japan. In addition to a news roundup, in this edition I’m also going to write a bit about the Space Strategy Fund, the Japanese government’s latest industrial policy aimed at catalyzing a globally competitive space sector.* ## News & Announcements ### 💱 Contracts and Funding - Following up on the [JAXA contract announcement in November](https://www.japanearthobserver.com/japan-earth-observer-2-the-curious-orbits-of-qzss/) \[JEO\], **ArkEdge Space** [closed a Series B funding round](https://spacenews.com/arkedge-space-raises-jpy-8-billion-in-series-b-funding-to-become-leading-satellite-system-integrator-accelerating-satellite-mass-production-and-business-expansion/?ref=japanearthobserver.com) \[SpaceNews\] for JPY 8 billion (\~US$ 52.5 million) led by Incubate Fund KK. This brings ArkEdge’s total funding to JPY 10.7 billion. The JAXA contract is to develop technologies for a lunar navigation satellite system, but navigation systems is only part of its offerings. ArkEdge’s core work is designing and building standardized satellite bus systems for 6U satellites (about 50 kg) that can be used for a range of Earth observation, maritime, IoT, and communications missions. The company has grown quickly to 120 employees and an order book of JPY 32 billion including [significant orders for satellite constellations for the Taiwan and Rwanda space agencies](https://asia.nikkei.com/Business/Aerospace-Defense-Industries/Seven-year-old-startup-leads-Japan-s-lunar-navigation-bid?ref=japanearthobserver.com) \[Nikkei Asia\]. ArkEdge can manufacture a few dozen satellites per year today, and aims to expand that capacity to 100 satellites per year by 2026. - A bunch of Astroscale news this month: - The **UK subsidiary of Astroscale** has secured a [590,000 Euro (USD 614,000) contract from the ESA](https://contents.xj-storage.jp/xcontents/AS82438/ab0665ee/cfd4/4aab/9e3e/0c656032686c/140120250120552889.pdf?ref=japanearthobserver.com) \[TSE notice\]\[[English translation](https://moneyworld.jp/discl-pdf/tdnet/2025012055289001GENERAL.pdf?ref=japanearthobserver.com)\] to develop the Capture Bay for Active Debris Removal (CAT) for In-Orbit Demonstration (IOD). The mission is aimed at maturing and adapting its ELSA-m rendezvous proximity operations (RPO) technology for the CAT in-orbit demonstration. [Astroscale UK will be the mission and platform prime contractor for Phase A](https://astroscale.com/advancing-in-orbit-servicing-astroscales-role-in-esas-cat-iod-mission/?ref=japanearthobserver.com) \[Astroscale\]. The ESA is keen to develop a capacity to service its Copernicus Earth observation satellites on-orbit as well as make progress toward its 2030 Zero Debris initiative. This is a feather in Astroscale’s cap and will help extend its lead in both debris removal and on-orbit servicing. - **Astroscale’s UK subsidiary** also successfully [completed its Mid-Term Review of Phase 2 for the UK Space Agency’s Active Debris Removal (ADR) mission](https://spacenews.com/astroscale-and-clearspace-reach-development-milestone-for-dual-satellite-deorbit-mission/%20?ref=japanearthobserver.com) \[SpaceNews\]. Astroscale is competing with Swiss firm, ClearSpace, to be selected for Phase 3 and the actual manufacturing, testing and launch of a deorbit mission that will remove two satellites using a robotic arm. Phase 2 is expected to be completed by the end of March. Astroscale already has a contract with the UKSA and ESA to deorbit a defunct OneWeb satellite in the next year using a magnetic capture mechanism on the ELSA-m vehicle. - **Astroscale UK** inked a [contract with BAE Systems to design, build, and test a modular satellite](https://payloadspace.com/astroscale-bae-systems-team-on-isam-demo-by-2030/?ref=japanearthobserver.com) capable of being serviced in-orbit. - **Astroscale Japan** was [awarded a JPY 7.27 billion (\~USD 48.5 million) contract with the Japan Ministry of Defense (JMoD)](https://astroscale.com/astroscale-japan-secures-contract-with-japanese-ministry-of-defense-to-develop-a-responsive-space-system-demonstration-satellite-prototype/?ref=japanearthobserver.com) to develop and test a compact, highly maneuverable satellite that can operate in geostationary orbit in a space domain awareness (SDA) role as well as serve as an optical data relay. The initial three-year contract (through JFY 2027), if successful, will be followed by a separate contract to support launch and operations phases. Astroscale has previously focused on the civilian government and commercial sectors and this is its first defense and intelligence contract. Geostationary SDA satellites are usually large and immobile, but China has demonstrated reconnaissance satellites that are mobile and agile, and the U.S., Japan, and allies are racing to catch up. Astroscale recent demonstrations of rendezvous and proximity operations (RPO) capabilities give it a head-start. - **Astroscale France** has convinced [Pierre Omaly to depart Centre National d'Etudes Spatiales (CNES) and join them as as a Senior Technical Expert](https://news.satnews.com/2025/03/04/astroscale-france-appoints-a-senior-technical-expert/?ref=japanearthobserver.com). AT CNES Omaly led development of technologies for on-orbit rendezvous and proximity operations (RPO) and satellite detumbling techniques, work that is closely aligned with Astroscale’s ambitions. - Astroscale has all of these subsidiaries in each country in order to comply with regional contracting and export control regulations, and it raises questions about the degree to which it can leverage economies of scale across the various organizations. The question came up a couple of times in the most recent [earnings call Q&A](https://contents.xj-storage.jp/xcontents/AS82438/9aa59f1f/3796/4ada/84fe/a9c4bb8b7e22/20250131141824757s.pdf?ref=japanearthobserver.com), and Astroscale acknowledged that, for example, in Europe, they are required to use a local supply chain so they have to build the satellite bus for European projects using local components while the Japanese contracts use a different set of components. It seems like they are trying to share as much as regulations will allow across the various units, but it does indeed introduce some inefficiencies. - Eutelsat signed a contract for a bunch of H3 rocket launches from **Mitsubishi Heavy Industries (MHI)** in Sept 2024 for launch in 2027, but [Eutelsat’s recent bank and ratings agency downgrades](https://www.fitchratings.com/research/corporate-finance/fitch-downgrades-eutelsat-to-bb-outlook-negative-on-oneweb-challenges-01-02-2024?ref=japanearthobserver.com) plus board departures could put the company (and this order) in jeopardy. SpaceX Starlink, Amazon Kuiper, and Telesat are all ahead or directly competing with Eutelsat’s OneWeb on providing LEO broadband, and, given its already high debt, it’s not clear that Eutelsat will have the funds to get its second generation constellation into orbit at sufficient scale and speed to compete. That said, it’s possible that if SpaceX Starlink support is withdrawn from Ukraine, Eutelsat’s broadband could fill a particularly acute need. I think the withdrawal of support for Ukraine by the Trump administration has convinced European leaders that they need to have a sovereign LEO broadband capability under their own control. - **LSAS Tec** will build a [space debris monitoring facility in Yamanashi Prefecture](https://news.satnews.com/2025/02/02/space-debris-monitoring-base-to-be-built-at-the-kiyosato-resort-in-japan/?ref=japanearthobserver.com) \[SatNews\]. The resort town of Kiyosato is a few hours drive west of Tokyo and boasts a 1,200m elevation, a lot of clear days, and an empty primary school. [LSAS Tec](https://lsas-tec.co.jp/en/?ref=japanearthobserver.com), a geospatial systems integrator will renovate the former school and add a monitoring telescope to the grounds to support debris tracking. - **ElevationSpac**e [booked a launch of its 200kg AOBA payload on an Isar Aerospace Spectrum rocket](https://spacenews.com/isar-aerospace-secures-first-asian-customer-ahead-of-debut-launch/?ref=japanearthobserver.com) in the second half of 2026\. The initial launches of the German Spectrum rocket will occur from the Andøya Spaceport in northern Norway. - **Q-shu Pioneers of Space (iQPS)** has [signed a second launch contract with RocketLab](https://news.satnews.com/2025/03/03/rocket-lab-signs-2nd-multi-launch-deal-eight-electron-missions-with-iqps/?ref=japanearthobserver.com) \[SatNews\], bringing the total to eight dedicated launches under contract. Currently six are expected to launch in 2025 and two more in 2026\. RocketLab is also launching ten satellites for iQPS’s rival SAR constellation, Synspective. - **Tenchijin** has been [selected by JAXA as a data service provider for the ALOS-4](https://news.satnews.com/2025/02/28/tenchijin-selected-as-data-service-provider-of-jaxas-alos-4/?ref=japanearthobserver.com) \[SatNews\] phased array L-band synthetic aperture radar (PALSAR-3) sensor, launched in July 2024\. If you read [last month’s newsletter](https://www.japanearthobserver.com/japan-earth-observer-2-the-curious-orbits-of-qzss/), this might sound like deja vu. In January, there was a similar announcement about a team led by PASCO (with RESTEC and Tellus) receiving a similar contract. PASCO has been a long-time distributor of ALOS data and currently supports online tasking requests for the ALOS-2 satellite as well as data search, distribution and download services for ALOS, ALOS-2, and Terra ASTER through its [PLATFORM tool](https://satpf.jp/spf/?ref=japanearthobserver.com). JAXA seems to be hedging its bets by awarding a second contract to Tenchijin, which already operates a [COMPASS tool](https://compass.tenchijin.co.jp/%20?ref=japanearthobserver.com) that displays analytical results such as agricultural productivity, surface temperature, heat stroke risk, and land use/land cover maps. Tenchijin’s three-year contract will run through March 2028 (JFY2027) will enable them to build a new online distribution tool as well as provide training and workshops on how to use the data. I’ll be curious to see how Tenchijin’s distribution approach will differ from that of PASCO. ![02-tenchijin-compass-screenshot.png](https://storage.ghost.io/c/54/e9/54e9159b-1345-41dd-b7dd-180de33edc5b/content/images/2025/03/02-tenchijin-compass-screenshot.png) Tenchijin COMPASS application displaying mid-summer heat stroke risk. Credit: Tenchijin ### 🛰️ Technology and Infrastructure - The **Geospatial Information Division Lab (地理空間情報課ラボ)**, a unit at the Ministry of Land, Infrastructure, Transport, and Tourism (MLIT) is [soliciting public feedback on the Real Estate Information Library (不動産情報ライブラリ)](https://www.mlit-gis-lab.jp/reinfolib/?ref=japanearthobserver.com), a real estate data application that was launched in April 2024\. The application had 15 million page views in its first 10 months and they want input on how to improve it. Any user can submit a one page proposal on how to improve the application and selected proposals will have a 30 minute interview. I think this kind of user research is becoming more common in government agencies, but flinging open the doors to the entire public user base is an extraordinary step for a country of \~125 million and 65 million real estate parcels. This initiative follows [a survey for input on which geospatial data formats to use for future data distribution in February](https://www.mlit-gis-lab.jp/ksj/?ref=japanearthobserver.com) (my vote was for Geoparquet and PMTiles). Kudos to the MLIT GIS Lab for the proactive and courageous user research.. - The **ispace** Hakuto-R [Resilience lander has raised its orbit and is now on a low energy transfer orbit to the Moon](https://www.space.com/ispace-resilience-moon-lander-1st-lunar-flyby%20?ref=japanearthobserver.com) \[Space.com\], where it is expected to attempt a landing at Mare Frigoris in early June. It did a successful lunar flyby on Feb 15\. This was Milestone 5 of the mission, and the next steps will be testing of control maneuvers and deep space survivability before lunar orbital insertion. At a [mid-flight press briefing](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=9sVj3TmAELo&ref=japanearthobserver.com) \[YouTube\] \[[Japanese version](https://www.youtube.com/live/MD-FYaw-Dzw?ref=japanearthobserver.com)\] on March 3, ispace announced that they currently project the lunar landing to occur at 4:24am JST on June 6\. The ispace press briefing also highlighted how ispace has incorporated lessons from Mission 1 into its development process. These lessons learned have resulted in a 40% reduction in development time, a 50% reduction in cost, and a 60% reduction in the time from launch to operational status. ![03-ispace-hakuto-r-m2-orbit.png](https://storage.ghost.io/c/54/e9/54e9159b-1345-41dd-b7dd-180de33edc5b/content/images/2025/03/03-ispace-hakuto-r-m2-orbit.png) Ispace Hakuto-R M2 lander lunar transfer orbit. Credit: ispace ![04-ispace-hakuto-r-m2-lessons-learned.png](https://storage.ghost.io/c/54/e9/54e9159b-1345-41dd-b7dd-180de33edc5b/content/images/2025/03/04-ispace-hakuto-r-m2-lessons-learned.png) Mission 2 performance improvements. Credit: ispace - **Marble Visions** is [kicking off development of a high resolution, high frequency 3D imaging satellite constellation](https://www.nttdata.com/global/en/news/press-release/2025/february/022600?ref=japanearthobserver.com) \[NTT Data\] to support development of digital twins. By collecting 3D data at 40 cm resolution and on a higher revisit cadence, they aim to update global 3D maps annually and every three to six months for major urban areas. So-called “digital twins” are high fidelity digital models of the physical environment. At the scale of a single structure, like a building or bridge, they can help with planning construction, upgrades, and maintenance, while at the scale of a neighborhood or city, a digital twin can be used for urban planning, emergency management, and public safety. NTT Data has form in this domain as it has been providing a [global 5m 3D data product called AW3D](https://www.aw3d.jp/?ref=japanearthobserver.com) using a mix of Maxar Worldview and DAICHI ALOS satellite data in collaboration with [RESTEC](https://www.restec.or.jp/?ref=japanearthobserver.com). Marble Visions is a joint venture led by [NTT Data](https://www.nttdata.com/?ref=japanearthobserver.com) (60%) as part of its [Constellation 89](https://group.ntt/en/aerospace/?ref=japanearthobserver.com) initiative and also includes PASCO (30%) and [Canon Electronics](https://en.canon-elec.co.jp/?ref=japanearthobserver.com) (10%). Marble Vision was an early recipient of funding from the JAXA Space Strategy Fund (see below) in 2024 and they received final grant approval earlier this year. NITT’s initial capital investment was JPY 5 billion with phased funding through 2026 and an initial satellite launch planned for 2027. - **Space Compass** and **NTT DOCOMO** have [successfully tested 4G LTE communications between a smart phone and a high altitude, long-duration airplane](https://space-compass.com/en/news/000074.html?ref=japanearthobserver.com) \[Space Compass\] (in the argot, a high altitude platform station or HAPS). The test occurred over Kenya from the stratospheric height of 20km using an Airbus Zephyr aircraft. Space Compass, which is a joint venture of NTT DOCOMO and SkyPerfect JSAT, is aiming to launch a commercial wide-area HAPS service in 2026 and has a longer-term objective of developing an integrated HAPS and space-based communications system. - **JAXA**, **Sony**, **TOMY**, and **Doshisha University** [won the Prime Minister’s Award at the 7th Japan Open Innovation Prize for a tiny transformable lunar rover](https://global.jaxa.jp/press/2025/02/20250206-2%5Fe.html?ref=japanearthobserver.com) called LEV-2 and nicknamed SORA-Q. The tiny robot has a 78 mm diameter and weighs only 228 grams. It integrates toy technology from TOMY, IoT and image sensors from Sony, robotics from Doshisha University and space tech from JAXA. ![05-nano-rover.png](https://storage.ghost.io/c/54/e9/54e9159b-1345-41dd-b7dd-180de33edc5b/content/images/2025/03/05-nano-rover.png) Collaborators on the SORA-Q project. Credit: JAXA ### 🔭 Science - The **XRISM observatory’s** X-ray [spectrometer has detected oscillating hot gas motion in a galaxy cluster](https://www.xrism.jaxa.jp/en/topics/science/1112/?ref=japanearthobserver.com) \[JAXA\] for the first time, providing evidence of how galaxy clusters are shaped by collisions and mergers. ### 🗺️ International Collaborations - The **Luxembourg Space Agency (LSA)** and **ispace** have started releasing [a multi-episode documentary about the TENACIOUS micro-rover](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=WOmwFHthi4M&ref=japanearthobserver.com) \[YouTube\] that is currently making its way to the moon aboard the Hakuto-R M2 lander. While ispace is a Japanese company, it has subsidiaries in the United States and Luxembourg, and the Luxembourg unit, ispace-EUROPE, developed the rover with funding support from LSA and ESA. Additional episodes of the documentary will be released as the M2 lander makes its way to the moon. - **Ispace** is also busy. On Feb 13, [ispace and **King Fahd University of Petroleum and Minerals (KFUPM)** inked an MOU](https://ispace-inc.com/news-en/?p=7017&ref=japanearthobserver.com) \[ispace\] for collaboration lunar exploration, which could include joint research as well as ispace hauling some KFUPM payloads to the lunar surface. KFUPM is the top-ranked university in Saudi Arabia and its Interdisciplinary Research Centre (IRC) for Aviation and Space Exploration will lead and coordinate the collaboration. --- ## 📆 Asia-Pacific Conferences & Events This newsletter is mostly focused on Japan, but I also like to highlight events across the Asia-Pacific region as well. First, YouTube [videos of the FOSS4G Japan 2024 conference sessions](https://www.osgeo.jp/events/2024-2/foss4g-2024-japan/coreday?ref=japanearthobserver.com) held at Senhu University in November 2024 are now available. Some upcoming conferences include: - [India Space Congress](https://www.indiaspacecongress.com/?ref=japanearthobserver.com) \- 27-27 June 2025 - New Delhi, India - [Spacetide](https://spacetide.jp/en/news/4225/?ref=japanearthobserver.com) \- 7 - 10 July 2025 - Toranomon, Tokyo, Japan - [35th International Symposium on Space Technology and Science (ISTS) & 14th Nano-Satellite Symposium (NSAT) Joint Symposium](https://ists.ne.jp/the35th/?ref=japanearthobserver.com) \- 12 - 18 July 2025 - Asti Tokushima, Japan --- # Japan's Space Strategy Fund: space industrial policy at scale Japan has leveraged industrial policy for more than a century. In the Meiji era, government policy promoted steel and defense industrial production. After World War II, the national government established financial and policy support for the iron, steel, shipbuilding, machining, electrical equipment, and chemicals industries that would be necessary to rebuild the country. Later, support was added to promote automobile manufacturing, petrochemicals and nuclear power, and then, in the 1980s, computers and semiconductors were targeted as strategic industries. In addition to supporting growth and development in some industries, Japan has managed the decline of others, including chemical fertilizers and textiles. Industrial policy can take many forms: - Targeted grants to support early stage research - Loans to enable expansion and achieve economies of scale - Establishing and funding industry consortia and research institutes to overcome technological barriers - Becoming the initial customer for a nascent industry or buying from multiple firms to encourage competition - Administrative guidance (行政指導) to advise, encourage, and persuade corporations and individuals in a desired direction - Subsidies, tax concessions, import permits - Encouraging universities to support certain career paths where labor shortages are anticipated - International diplomacy to encourage exports and purchase of goods in the global marketplace Japan is not unique in leveraging state funds and power to promote the development and advancement of strategic industries; most countries deploy industrial policy to some extent. While it does not intervene extensively in most markets, the national administrative apparatus in Japan is not shy about using industrial policy when it perceives an opportunity to grow and support an industry it believes is strategic or in which it can be competitive. The rapidly growing space industry satisfies both of these concerns. The ability to launch payloads and operate in space based on an independent and capable domestic industrial capacity is seen as a strategic priority for both national defense and commercial reasons. Further, Japanese industry has potential competitive advantages in some areas that could potentially become global industrial leaders. ## Money Strategy Enter the [Space Strategy Fund](https://fund.jaxa.jp/?ref=japanearthobserver.com) (宇宙戦略基金), a JPY 1 *trillion* (\~US$ 6.7 billion) investment fund that aims to advance Japan’s space industry over a 10 year period in three key priority areas - 1) space transportation (rockets, spaceports, etc.); 2) satellite technology, and 3) Earth/lunar exploration - plus a category for cross-cutting topics. The fund is an industrial policy response to several observations: - The emergence of many new space industry actors - there are now 77 space agencies around the world today, 16 of which have domestic launch capacity - A sense that Japan’s space capabilities have seen declining international competitiveness - the rapid pace of developments in the U.S. and China are raising competitive concerns around the world - Maintaining an independent, sovereign space capacity will require supply chain autonomy, investment in technology innovation, and government support as both R&D funder and customer. As I have written in previous newsletters, Japan has endured deliberate efforts by the United States to [restrict its rocket launch capabilities in the 1960’s and 1970’s](https://www.japanearthobserver.com/japan-earth-observer-1-2024-year-in-review/#next-generation-h3-rockets-launch) as well as the [evisceration of its domestic satellite industry](https://www.japanearthobserver.com/japan-earth-observer-2-the-curious-orbits-of-qzss/#some-history) through the application of the Section 301 trade law in the 1980’s and 1990’s. Combined with the Taepo Dong incident in 1998 (and no doubt reinforced by recent U.S. actions to withdraw support for Ukraine’s effort to defend itself), Japan has a healthy desire to maintain and advance a sovereign launch and satellite production capability. Further, demographic decline and nearly static economic growth limit the size of domestic market demand and generate a sense that Japanese firms need to expand internationally in order to be competitive. The new Fund is part of the current government space policy document, known as the “Basic Plan on Space Policy” (宇宙基本計画) approved in June 2023\. That plan articulates a few high-level goals: 1) expand the commercial space industry from JPY 4 trillion in 2020 to JPY 8 trillion by the early 2030’s; 2) leverage space technology to address global issues such as energy, climate change, agriculture, forestry, water, health, etc.; and 3) cultivate knowledge of space and advance critical technologies. In the meantime, the new Fund represents a significant increase in the Japan’s civilian space budget. ![06-nz-mfat-japan-space-budget.png](https://storage.ghost.io/c/54/e9/54e9159b-1345-41dd-b7dd-180de33edc5b/content/images/2025/03/06-nz-mfat-japan-space-budget.png) Japan’s annual core budget, supplementary budget, and Space Strategy Fund 2010-2024 Credit: New Zealand Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Trade Officially launched in April 2024, the Fund provides long-term, flexible, and strategic support for private companies, universities, and national research centers. Funding for space-related priorities in Japan is split across several agencies. Overall strategy is overseen by the Cabinet Office (CAO 内閣府). Budgets related to space are allocated across four agencies: Ministry of Internal Affairs and Communications (MIC 総務省), Ministry of Education, Culture, Sports, Science and Technology (MEXT 文部科学省), the Ministry of Economy, Trade and Industry (METI 経済産業省), and the Ministry of Defense (JMoD 防衛省). The Fund does not include defense concerns per se so JMoD is not technically part of the organizational structure, but most space technologies have dual uses, and I would expect there has been some collaboration in terms of the specific themes being pursued. Otherwise, the funds flow from supplemental budgets allocated to MEXT, METI, and MIC. Using funds from these three ministries, the Japanese space agency, JAXA, is responsible for commissioning projects, organizing review committees, distributing funds, and managing the projects. ![07-space-strategy-fund.png](https://storage.ghost.io/c/54/e9/54e9159b-1345-41dd-b7dd-180de33edc5b/content/images/2025/03/07-space-strategy-fund.png) Overview of agency responsibilities and three priority areas. Credit: JAXA Within the three priority areas - transportation, satellites, and exploration - the Cabinet Office has identified some specific quantitative results they would like to see during the 10-year life of the fund: **Space Transportation** - Increase government and commercial rocket launch cadence to 30 launches per year by the first half of the 2030s. **Satellites** - Establish at least five commercial satellite systems by 2030 at the earliest. - Complete implementation of at least 30 major satellite data services provided by domestic commercial entities by 2030 at the earliest. **Exploration** - Enable private firms and universities to participate in at least 10 space missions to the Moon, Mars, or beyond. - Establish 10 or more new business projects by Japanese private entities utilizing low Earth orbit (LEO) by 2030 at the earliest. In pursuit of these objectives, JAXA and the other ministries have put together an [initial list of 22 themes](https://fund.jaxa.jp/techlist/?ref=japanearthobserver.com) across the three priority areas. Starting in July 2024, solicitations were released to the private sector, committees were convened to review the proposals and contract awards have now been announced for almost all of the themes (one theme, lunar water sensors, was re-posted after no awards were made from the original solicitation). This represents a ton of work for a single year, and a crew of people at JAXA deserve some serious kudos. While the following 22 themes represent the initial year and many of these awards will be multi-year, I would expect that JAXA will adjust the themes and issue new solicitations as necessary in subsequent years. | Theme | **MinistrySponsor** | **SolicitationDate** | **ResultsDate** | **Awards** | | -------------------------------------------------------------------- | ------------------- | -------------------- | ------------------- | -------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- | | **宇宙輸送Space Transportation** | | | | | | Improve weight, performance,and cost of transport vehicles | MEXT | 7/5/2024 | 10/25/20241/30/2025 | Nikon Shimizu Maruhachi Mitsubishi Heavy Industries | | Ground infrastructure andspaceports | MEXT | 7/19/2024 | 12/20/20241/17/2025 | Nippon YusenSPACE COTAN | | Integrated navigation andpositioning | METI | 7/19/2024 | 11/15/2024 | Mitsubishi Precision | | Mass production of materialsfor solid fuel motors | METI | 8/23/2024 | 1/31/2025 | IHI Aerospace | | **衛星等Satellites** | | | | | | Accelerating the construction of commercial satellite constellations | METI | 7/5/2024 | 11/29/2024 | ArkEdge Space iQPS Synspective NEC | | High-resolution, high-frequencyoptical EO satellites | MEXT | 7/19/2024 | 11/29/2024 | Marble Visions | | Space-borne LIDAR using high-power lasers | MEXT | 7/19/2024 | 11/29/2024 | Kyoto University | | Optical routers for satellite constellations | MIC | 7/26/2024 | 11/22/2024 | NEC | | Satellite quantumcryptography communication | MIC | 7/26/2024 | 12/20/2024 | National Institute of Information and Communications Technology (NICT) | | High-precision satellite formation flying | MEXT | 8/7/2024 | 12/20/2024 | Interstellar Technologies Nagoya University Tokyo University | | Overseas satellite datautilization system (feasibility study) | METI | 8/23/2024 | 2/7/2025 | Umitron Ocean Eyes Ocean Solution Technology Space Tech Accelerator Solafune Pacific Consultants Japan Space Forum | | Satellite supply chaindevelopment | METI | 8/23/2024 | 2/28/2025 | WEL Research NEC Space Technologies NU-Rei Composite Tailors Sharp Energy Solutions GS Yuasa Technology Mitsubishi Electric (2) INDUSTRIAL-X ASTEC | | **探査等Exploration** | | | | | | Regenerative fuelcell systems | MEXT | 7/5/2024 | 11/29/2024 | Toyota Motor | | Lunar-Earth communicationssystems (feasibility study) | MIC | 7/5/2024 | 11/15/2024 | KDDIFukui University of Technology | | Lunar positioning systems | MEXT | 8/7/2024 | 11/22/2024 | ArkEdge Space | | Lunar water sensingand exploration | MIC | 7/5/2024 | 11/29/2024 | \[No awards\] | | Lunar water sensing andexploration (re-posted RFP) | MIC | 2/14/2025 | TBD | | | Semi-permanent lunarpower supply systems | MEXT | 8/23/2024 | 1/10/2025 | Japan Atomic Energy Agency | | LEO experimental systems | MEXT | 7/26/2024 | 11/22/2024 | Space BD | | LEO autonomous flightmodule systems | MEXT | 7/26/2024 | 11/15/2024 | Japan LEO Corp. | | Supply chain independenceand flexibility | MEXT | 8/7/2024 | 12/13/2024 | Japan LEO Corp. IHI Aerospace | | Low-cost atmosphericreentry and deceleration | MEXT | 8/7/2024 | 1/10/2025 | NeSTRA | | **分野共通Common Areas** | | | | | | R&D Hub for SpaceTransformation (SX) | MEXT | 8/23/2024 | 1/31/2025 | Nagoya University Tokyo University Ritsumeikan University National Astronomical Observatory of Japan (NAOJ) | ## Other space R&D funding mechanisms The Space Strategy Fund is new but Japan operates many other funding programs to develop new technology. **K Program:** The Cabinet Office (CAO) operates a Key and Advanced Technology R&D through Cross Community Collaboration Program (K Program). The Japan Science and Technology Agency (JST) and the New Energy and Industrial Technology Development Organization (NEDO) together manage a JPY 500 billion (\~ US$ 3.3 billion) fund aimed at research and development of key technologies critical for maintaining Japan’s global competitiveness. The five to ten year timeline is a good match for aerospace applications, and JAXA participates in the K Program and funds are [supporting Astroscale on-orbit refueling program](https://astroscale.com/astroscale-japan-selected-to-develop-in-space-refueling-technologies/?ref=japanearthobserver.com) \[Astroscale\], for example. **J-SPARC:** JAXA operates its own program called JAXA Space Innovation through PARtnership and Co-creation (J-SPARC), and, as the name implies, the emphasis is on partnership and co-creation. Commercial businesses are able to propose joint R&D ideas to JAXA, which, if approved, will bring human resources and funds to collaborate with business to demonstrate feasibility for a concept. A recent example is a [digital twin concept being co-developed by JAXA and Space Data](https://global.jaxa.jp/press/2024/10/20241031-1%5Fe.html?ref=japanearthobserver.com) \[JAXA\] using the environmental sensors on the KIBO research module on the ISS. J-SPARC has supported about 50 projects to date, including: Astroscale, Synspective, Space One, Sony, and Kawasaki Heavy Industries. !\[\]\[image8\] *J-SPARC co-creation process Credit: JAXA* **JAXA-SMASH:** The [JAXA-Small Satellite Rush Program](https://aerospacebiz.jaxa.jp/jaxa-smash/launch-service/?ref=japanearthobserver.com) (JAXA-SMASH) was launched in 2022 and is aimed at accelerating the entry and commercialization of small- and medium-sized businesses developing rockets for small satellite (<50kg) missions. Recipients have so far included BD Space, Space ONE, Interstellar, and Mitsui Bussan Aerospace. **Frontier Innovations Fund** was [established in 2024](https://www.frontier-innovations.jp/2-2?ref=japanearthobserver.com) as an independent commercial venture capital fund. JAXA is the “anchor” limited partner (LP) with additional LPs from financial institutions and institutional investors. Frontier Innovations operates the fund as a General Partner with a focus on seed and early-stage investments. **SBIR:** Small Business Innovation Research (SBIR) is an innovation funding program originally developed in the United States and has since been extended to most federal research agencies in the U.S. as well as inspiring similar programs around the world. Japan established its own SBIR program in 1999 to support innovative technology development in small businesses. It differs significantly from the U.S. SBIR program that inspired it. Rather than independent SBIR programs operated by each agency, Japan’s SBIR is an inter-ministerial program operated by the Cabinet Office and administered by the New Energy and Industrial Technology Development Organization (NEDO). Historically, only a small number of awards followed the two-phase structure (prototype and feasibility phase followed by a commercialization phase) and proportionally many awards went to relatively established firms as well as individuals, rather than the small startup companies targeted in the U.S. Further, there is no emphasis on technology transfer from universities to commercial firms, and, at least historically, the SBIR program has not provided additional commercialization support services or incentivized additional investment from venture capital funds. Following [evaluations that it had been ineffective in terms of growing both sales and employment](https://journals.sagepub.com/doi/pdf/10.1177/2158244017690791?ref=japanearthobserver.com) \[Inoue and Yamaguchi, 2017\], Japan’s SBIR program was significantly reformed in 2021. SBIR awards have played a fairly significant role supporting Japan’s space program over the past several years. Astroscale has been awarded a [US$ 80m SBIR from MEXT through 2028 for a debris inspection](https://www.satellitetoday.com/technology/2023/10/02/japanese-government-awards-astroscale-up-to-80m-for-debris-inspection-mission/?ref=japanearthobserver.com) \[Satellite Today\] mission (this is separate from the ADRAS-J effort funded by JAXA). Ispace has [an SBIR to support the Mission 6 lunar lander](https://ispace-inc.com/news-en/?p=6996&ref=japanearthobserver.com) \[ispace\], scheduled for 2027\. Tenchijin received [an SBIR to develop a land surface temperature](https://spacenews.com/jaxa-startup-tenchijin-developed-a-land-surface-temperature-product-with-next-level-of-resolution-and-frequency/?ref=japanearthobserver.com) \[SpaceNews\] feature for its COMPASS product. Space One, Innovative Space Carrier, and Space Walker have been participating in a [multi-year bake-off style competition to build satellite launch vehicles](https://asia.nikkei.com/Business/Aerospace-Defense-Industries/Japan-s-government-emerges-as-incubator-for-space-industry?ref=japanearthobserver.com) \[Nikkei Asia\] and funded through the SBIR program and MEXT funds. METI SBIR funds are also supporting remote sensing satellite development. **University research funding:** Japan demonstrates a great deal of collaboration between universities and the private sector and government funding for university research and space-related projects is not insignificant. In addition, several space startups have been spun out of university research programs. ## International competitors It would be tough to summarize all of the international competitors to Japan’s efforts to advance its space program, so I would like to focus on a couple of near peers, with a similar scope of ambitions: South Korea and India. **South Korea** established KARI, its first aeronautics and space agency in 1989\. Korea launched its first rocket in 1993 and its first satellite, Arirang 1, in 1999\. In addition to sending an astronaut to the ISS, it has successfully built a three-stage rocket, the Korean Space Launch Vehicle (KSLV-II) (also known as Nuri) providing access to geostationary orbit. In 2024, KARI was absorbed into a new agency, KASA, along with the Korea Astronomy and Space Science Institute (KASI) and a variety of other scattered space program initiatives. Like JAXA, KASA is explicitly tasked with growing the aerospace economy in Korea, catalyzing the establishment of new firms and jobs. Though expected to double to US$ 1.1 billion by 2027, KASA’s budget remains much smaller than JAXA’s, but it has big ambitions, including seven key objectives: 1. Make South Korea a top-five space power by 2045 2. Increase Korea’s global space flight market share to 10% 3. Create more than 2,000 space-related companies and 500,000 jobs in the space industry 4. Land on the Moon by 2032 5. Establish a lunar base by the 2040s 6. Send an orbiter to Mars by 2035 7. Land on Mars by 2045 Korea also plans a trip to the Apophis asteroid in 2029, implementation of a Korean controlled navigation and positioning system by 2035 (similar to [Japan’s QZSS](https://www.japanearthobserver.com/japan-earth-observer-2-the-curious-orbits-of-qzss/#the-qzss-a-gps-for-japan-but-better)), and development of high resolution imaging satellites. While the objectives vary somewhat from Japan, South Korea is targeting similar strategic aims: build and maintain a sovereign, domestic launch capacity that supports both defense and industry; grow the domestic space economy in order to both maintain a domestic supply chain and remain internationally competitive; maintain or expand access to resources and capabilities in Earth orbit, the lunar surface, and Mars; and make significant contributions to global advances in space exploration and science. **India** has been in the space game since the 1960s, but over the past couple of years, it has begun rapidly increasing the budget and ambitions of ISRO with overall strategic goals that include capturing 8% of the global space market and growing the domestic space economy to US$ 44 billion by 2033\. India already has a [regional navigation system (IRNSS)](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Indian%5FRegional%5FNavigation%5FSatellite%5FSystem?ref=japanearthobserver.com) that uses a similar quasi-zenith orbit design to the [Japanese QZSS](https://www.japanearthobserver.com/japan-earth-observer-2-the-curious-orbits-of-qzss/#the-qzss-a-gps-for-japan-but-better). It has already successfully developed complex multi-stage rockets, launched multiple lunar orbiters and landers, and reached Mars with the [Mars Orbiter Mission](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Mars%5FOrbiter%5FMission?ref=japanearthobserver.com) in 2014\. It has recently started a crewed space program, Gaganyaan, aimed at crewed flights by 2026 and development of its own crewed space station, [Bharatiya Antariksha Station](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Bharatiya%5FAntariksha%5FStation?ref=japanearthobserver.com), by 2035\. And in February it announced [the Indian National Space Promotion and Authorization Centre (IN-SPACe)](https://payloadspace.com/india-launches-58m-space-fund/?ref=japanearthobserver.com) \[Payload\] technology adoption fund. At ₹5 billion (\~ US$ 57.7 million), the new fund is less than 1% of the Japanese fund, but India has made a speciality out of achieving major space exploration milestones on very limited budgets. Further, it builds on a ₹10 billion (\~US$ 115.5 million) venture capital fund established in 2024\. Like Japan and Korea, India seeks to promote early-stage technologies from Indian companies into globally competitive commercial offerings, promote domestic R&D, reduce India’s dependence on imported solutions, position India as a significant player in the global space market, and demonstrate engineering and science leadership on the global stage. ## Is 10 years enough time to grow and wean an industry? Japan’s Space Strategy Fund will run through 2034\. That may seem some time away but many space technologies require not only capital but also many years of experimentation and even serial failure before they mature. JAXA and the other Japanese agencies involved in this policy may not be able to continue ponying up this kind of funding beyond the 10-year life of the fund. This raises several questions. One question will be whether Japan’s space industry ecosystem will be able to expand enough to outgrow the initial dependence on government contracts and subsidies. Can it become a sustainable, industry-led ecosystem that is internationally competitive? Second, it is unlikely that every Fund recipient will be successful; that is the nature of high risk technology development. JAXA has the authority to suspend funding to any recipient that does not meet objectives and milestones, but will it have the discipline to do so? Third, JAXA will have to strike a balance between allowing adequate time to experiment, build, and mature new technology while maintaining a sense of urgency and cultivating the agility to shift direction as technology evolves and new competitors emerge. The rapid gyrations and turmoil of the AI industry over the past three years is a reminder that industrial policy can easily be overtaken by events. Until next time, Robert --- Eating a persimmon, a bell rings: the Horyuji. – Masaoka Shiki (1867-1902) - translated by William Scott Wilson 柿くへば 鐘が鳴るなり 法隆法隆寺 *Kaki kueba* *Kane ga narunari* *Houryuuji* ### JEO 2 - The Curious Orbits of the QZSS URL: https://www.japanearthobserver.com/japan-earth-observer-2-the-curious-orbits-of-qzss/ Last updated: 2025-02-07T15:43:12.000Z *Welcome to Japan Earth Observer (JEO), a free monthly newsletter with a news roundup and one in-depth article about the space, Earth observation and geospatial industries in Japan. In addition to a news roundup, in this edition I’m also going to do a deep dive on Japan’s QZSS navigation satellite constellation.* ## News & Announcements ### 💱 Contracts and Funding - **ArkEdge Space** won a contract from JAXA to [develop a lunar navigation system](https://insidegnss.com/arkedge-space-selected-by-jaxa-to-lead-lunar-navigation-system-development/%20?ref=japanearthobserver.com) \[Inside GNSS\]. We’re all familiar with GPS and other Earth navigation systems, like Galileo and Beidou (see below for a discussion of Japan’s unique QZSS system), but with more missions going to the moon, we’re going to need a similar system for our favorite moon. Enter LunaNet, a Lunar Navigation Satellite System (LNSS) aimed at supporting lunar exploration and development. JAXA will be providing [ArkEdge](https://arkedgespace.com/?ref=japanearthobserver.com) with ￥5 billion (\~US$32.5 million) in a four year contract to develop the key technology components. - Space robotics firm, **GITAI**, [raised another US $15.5 million in venture funding](https://spacenews.com/gitai-gets-funds-to-develop-in-orbit-robotic-servicer/%20?ref=japanearthobserver.com) \[SpaceNews\], for a total of $83 million, to continue building its in-orbit servicing capabilities. Japanese billionaire (and astronaut), Maezawa Yusaku, led the funding round. GITAI was founded in Japan, but moved its headquarters to the United States in late 2023 in order to pursue United States space and defense markets. The firm is engaged in development of robotic arms, lunar rovers, lunar construction robots, and other products and services. They have a 1.5m S2 robotic arm on the ISS, and their next launch will be a 500kg spacecraft launch with SpaceX in October 2025. - **Synspective**, one of two Japanese companies building and operating synthetic aperture radar (SAR) satellite constellations, [went public on the Tokyo Stock Exchange](https://payloadspace.com/synspective-goes-public-on-tokyo-stock-exchange/%20?ref=japanearthobserver.com) \[Payload\] on 19 December. The public offering raised more than US $60 million, and in mid-January, they had a market cap of about ￥57 billion (\~US$370 million). CEO Arai Motoyuki and Shirasaka Seiko founded the firm in 2018 as a spinout of a Japanese government research program. - **Interstellar** landed a new [￥7 billion (\~US$44 million) investment from Woven by Toyota](https://spacenews.com/interstellar-and-toyota-forge-strategic-partnership/?ref=japanearthobserver.com) \[SpaceNews\] as part of the first tranche of a Series F round. “Woven by Toyota” may sound like an adventurous new textile venture for cars, but it’s actually a Toyota innovation unit started in 2021 and aimed at developing new autonomous logistics and transportation solutions for land, sea, and air. This new funding is doubling-down on an earlier investment of US$21 million for Interstellar’s Series E in August 2024, and an additional round is expected as soon as June 2025\. Interstellar is racing SpaceX, Amazon, and others to create a vertically integrated satellite manufacturing, launch, and communications business (similar to SpaceX’s Starlink). In addition to funding, Toyota has been helping with manufacturing, mass production, and supply chain expertise, and Woven by Toyota CEO, Kumabe Hajime will be joining the Interstellar board. - **PASCO** has been awarded a [JAXA contract to distribute Daichi-4 (ALOS-4) radar imagery](https://news.satnews.com/2025/01/26/pasco-to-provide-data-for-japans-newest-radar-satellite/?ref=japanearthobserver.com) \[SatNews\]. The ALOS series of Earth observation satellites includes both SAR sensors and multi-spectral optical sensors. Both ALOS-2 and ALOS-4 collect SAR data, specifically, phased array L-band synthetic aperture radar (PALSAR). ALOS-4 was constructed by Mitsubishi Electric, launched in July 2024 on an H3 rocket, and is designed to provide 3 meter resolution data with a 200km observation swath. PASCO is the lead on the contract, but they’ll also be working with RESTEC and Tellus to promote use of the ALOS-4 data. - **Astroscale** has been [selected to develop on-orbit refueling technologies](https://spaceanddefense.io/astroscale-japan-to-develop-in-space-refuelling-technologies/%20?ref=japanearthobserver.com) \[Space & Defense\]. The ￥12 billion (\~US$77 million) 5-year contract is being awarded under the K Program. Officially known as the "Key and Advanced Technology R&D through Cross Community Collaboration Program”, the K Program is operated by the Cabinet Office and Japan Science and Technology Agency (JST) and it’s aimed at supporting initiatives that have the potential for impact on Japan’s global competitiveness. - **Synspective** has been [selected by METI to develop a synthetic aperture radar (SAR) data solution for monitoring ground displacement in mining facilities](https://synspective.com/press-release/2025/globalsouth-cocreation-subsidy/?ref=japanearthobserver.com) \[Synspective\] in Latin America and Africa. The work will rely on Synspective’s InSAR\*2 analysis technology, and its team will include Yokogawa Electric, Insight Terra, and SRK Consulting. - **iQPS** signed a contract to use [four Rocket Lab Electron rockets to launch its SAR satellites in 2025 and 2026](https://investors.rocketlabusa.com/news/news-details/2025/Rocket-Lab-Signs-Multi-Launch-Contract-with-iQPS-for-Four-Electron-Missions/default.aspx?ref=japanearthobserver.com). IQPS is building toward a 36-satellite SAR constellation. - **Planet Labs PBC** inked a [US$230 million deal with **SkyPerfect JSAT** to build and operate a high resolution Pelican constellation](https://spacenews.com/sky-perfect-jsat-is-the-customer-behind-planets-230-million-leo-order/?ref=japanearthobserver.com) \[SpaceNews\]. JSAT has been around for more than 35 years, and for most of that time, it has been providing satellite communications and TV services for the Asia Pacific market and it currently operates seventeen such satellites. But it has been expanding into Earth observation, including a major investment in iQPS (see above). JSAT will create a U.S. subsidiary, JSAT Beyond Innovation, to own the new constellation, thereby enabling access to the U.S. defense and intelligence market while continuing to sell to the Japan Ministry of Defense (JMoD). Planet will build out the ten-satellite constellation over the next seven years. This is a big deal for Planet and has been a fillip to their stock price ([PL](https://www.google.com/finance/quote/PL:NYSE?window=6M&ref=japanearthobserver.com)) since the deal was announced. ### 🛰️ Technology and Infrastructure - The Japanese government will [invest in expanding H3 launch facilities to increase the launch cadence](https://japannews.yomiuri.co.jp/science-nature/technology/20241222-229219/?ref=japanearthobserver.com) \[Yomiuri Japan Times\]. Japan wants to launch at least six H3 rockets per year, but the current facilities at Tanegashima require one and a half to three months to prepare each launch. The **Ministry of Education, Culture, Sports, Science and Technology (MEXT)** (文部科学省) will invest in upgrading the H-IIA rocket assembly building to support H3’s, expand a fuel storage tank farm, and improve equipment for inspecting parts at the Mitsubishi Heavy Industries H3 factory. This kind of facilities investment will likely need to continue for several years if Japan is to reach the 30 launches per year goal it has set for the early 2030’s. - The **ispace** [Hakuto-R M2 lunar lander (aka Resilience) is on its way to the moon](https://spacenews.com/falcon-9-launches-american-and-japanese-commercial-lunar-landers/%20?ref=japanearthobserver.com) \[SpaceNews\]. The launch was a SpaceX Falcon 9 rideshare with a Blue Ghost lunar lander, but Resilience is on a different, lower energy trajectory to the moon. It will attempt a landing in the Mare Frigoris in about four months. ![ispace-hakuto-r.png](https://storage.ghost.io/c/54/e9/54e9159b-1345-41dd-b7dd-180de33edc5b/content/images/2025/02/ispace-hakuto-r.png) The ispace Hakuto-R M2 lunar lander, during prelaunch preparations. Credit: ispace - **NTT** **Data** will [use **Arlula** GeoStack software to task satellites for the Japanese government](https://www.arlula.com/arlula-and-ntt-data-partner-to-support-japanese-government-agency-satellite-mission/?ref=japanearthobserver.com) \[Arlula\]. Arlula is an Australian technology startup that creates software for managing EO satellite constellations. NTT Data will provide the GeoStack software to government agencies in order to manage imagery data and more easily task satellites. - **Synspective** is expanding its infrastructure both on the ground and in orbit. On December 21, [Rocket Lab launched a sixth StriX SAR satellite](https://spacenews.com/rocket-lab-launches-sixth-synspective-radar-imaging-satellite/?ref=japanearthobserver.com) \[SpaceNews\], the last in its initial Electron launch services contract. It signed a deal for ten more Electron launches in June 2024, and those will happen 2025 to 2027\. To support a higher production volume, it has [begun full scale manufacturing operations](https://synspective.com/press-release/2024/yamatotechnologycenter/%20?ref=japanearthobserver.com) \[Synspective\] at its Yamato Technology center. The new center can build twelve satellites per year. - **ispace** will [work with Magna Petra to mine Helium-3 on the moon](https://www.space.com/the-universe/moon/japanese-company-ispace-plans-to-land-helium-3-mining-missions-on-the-moon?ref=japanearthobserver.com) \[Space.com\]. Helium-3 is rare and in short supply on Earth but, due to the lack of atmosphere and magnetic field, it is much more common in lunar regolith. Ispace will transport the Magna Petra mining equipment to the moon and then transport the Helium-3 back to Earth, potentially for use in future fusion reactors - Another [engine explosion will further delay the first **Epsilon S** launch](https://gizmodo.com/japans-epsilon-s-rocket-test-ends-in-fiery-explosion-marking-another-big-setback-2000530138?ref=japanearthobserver.com) \[Gizmodo\]. JAXA oversees two flagship rocket programs. The new liquid fueled, medium-lift H3 rocket is now in regular production by Mitsubishi Heavy Industries after four successful launches since March 2024\. The other program is a three-stage, solid fuel rocket, called Epsilon. The latest Epsilon S model is being developed for JAXA by **IHI Corporation**. This was the second engine test failure and plans for an initial launch test for March 2025 will now be delayed again. - **Space One**’s [second KAIROS launch](https://spacenews.com/second-kairos-launch-fails/?ref=japanearthobserver.com) \[SpaceNews\] did better than the first one, but it still didn’t make it to orbit. SpaceOne is trying to be the first commercial company in Japan to successfully launch an orbital rocket. The three-stage, solid fuel KAIROS No. 1 blew up on the launch pad last year. This [second attempt in December survived twenty minutes into its flight before being terminated](https://english.kyodonews.net/news/2024/12/c985a20d7cd2-update1-japanese-startup-space-one-fails-to-launch-rocket-for-2nd-time.html?ref=japanearthobserver.com) \[Kyodo News\] because it deviated from its intended flight path. It was carrying five small satellites for the [Taiwan Space Agency](https://www.tasa.org.tw/?ref=japanearthobserver.com) (TASA), [Space Cubics](https://spacecubics.com/?ref=japanearthobserver.com), and Terra Space. Space One was set up by **Canon Electronics**, **Shimizu**, and **ISI Corporation** in 2018 and it operates out of Space Port Kii (スペースポート紀伊) in Kushimoto, Wakayama Prefecture, Japan’s first commercial spaceport. Space One is aiming for a rapid turnaround launch service capable of twenty launches per year. - **L3Harris** has [completed the Preliminary Design Review (PDR) for the imager that will be on the Himawari-10 weather satellite](https://news.satnews.com/2025/01/09/l3harris-completes-pdr-for-key-components-of-new-geostationary-meteorological-satellite/%20?ref=japanearthobserver.com) \[SatNews\]. L3Harris won a contract in 2023 to adapt its Advanced Baseline Imager (ABI) technology for the next Himawari (ひまわり) weather satellite being built by **Mitsubishi Electric**. The same L3Harris ABI tech was also used on NOAA’s most recent generation of GOES-R weather satellites. The Himawari-10 is currently planned for a 2028 launch. Himawari means “sunflower” in Japanese. - **Starlab Space h**as [opened a German subsidiary](https://payloadspace.com/starlab-space-announces-european-subsidiary/?ref=japanearthobserver.com) \[Payload\] in order to provide better access to the EU market. Starlab, a joint venture between **Voyager Space**, **Airbus**, **Mitsubishi Corporation**, and **MDA Space, is** one of several firms vying to replace the ISS after it is deorbited in 2030\. Leveraging its investors, Starlab has also signed research collaborations at the [Shonan Health Innovation Park](https://www.shonan-ipark.com/en/about/?ref=japanearthobserver.com) in Fujisawa, Japan and the [George Washington Carver Science Park at Ohio State University](https://gwcsp.osu.edu/about?ref=japanearthobserver.com). - **Pale Blue** signed a contract to [apply its water propulsion system for D-Orbit](https://payloadspace.com/pale-blue-is-bringing-water-based-propulsion-to-space/?ref=japanearthobserver.com) \[Payload\]. Pale Blue is a Japanese startup that has developed a 1U+ water ion thruster. Most rocket and satellite fuel propellants are toxic to humans. Water would be a low cost, safe propellant. D-Space plans to test the technology in launches planned for June and October. - Following successful demonstration, **GITAI** is [upscaling its product line](https://spacenews.com/gitai-expanding-satellite-product-line-after-successful-demo/?ref=japanearthobserver.com) \[SpaceNews\]. GITAI flew a 20kg, 16U satellite on the January 12 SpaceX Transporter-12 rideshare launch. The success of the pathfinder mission is a step toward 50kg, 200kg, and 500kg versions of its satellites. There are several companies that promise to manufacture and deliver a satellite. However, all of these firms rely on third party components and have struggled with supply chain issues in the face of high demand. As a result, lead times are often measured in years. GITAI is aiming to build all of the components (except mission-specific sensors and cameras) in-house, including avionics, attitude control, and electrical and chemical propulsion. They expect that this will reduce costs and enable more rapid delivery to customers as they won’t rely on any third parties. The 20kg test satellite had 60% of the components built in-house, and GITAI expects this to be 100% by the end of 2025. - **JAXA and NEC** [successfully demonstrated optical data relays between satellites](https://global.jaxa.jp/press/2025/01/20250123-1%5Fe.html?ref=japanearthobserver.com) \[JAXA\]. This test was done between the new Daichi-4 (ALOS-4) Earth observation satellite launched to LEO in July 2024 and a data relay satellite in GEO orbit. Contemporary EO satellites collect a shocking amount of data, but if they aren’t within sight of a ground station, they can’t always relay it quickly down to Earth. It may seem counterintuitive to send data further away (40,000 km orbit) before sending the data back to Earth, but by relaying via laser to a satellite in geostationary orbit (one that is presumably sitting over a ground station), the data can reach the surface in a single, high speed microwave transmission, rather than several radio transmissions from LEO broken up across several ground stations. Faster transmission means imagery can be used more quickly. NEC adapted technology it had previously used for terrestrial and marine fiber-optic systems. ![03-lucas-diagram.png](https://storage.ghost.io/c/54/e9/54e9159b-1345-41dd-b7dd-180de33edc5b/content/images/2025/02/03-lucas-diagram.png) LUCAS optical data transmission system diagram. Credit: NEC ### 🔭 Science - **Japan Space Systems (JSS)** will [test space-based solar power supply](https://asia.nikkei.com/Business/Science/Japan-takes-first-step-toward-space-based-solar-power-supply?ref=japanearthobserver.com) system with funding from the Ministry of Economy, Trade and Industry (METI). JSS will fly a plane with microwave energy transmitters over Suwa (Nagano prefecture). Thirteen ground receivers will convert the beamed microwaves into electrical power. The next step will be a space-based test of a 150kg satellite that the team expects to launch in FY2025. - A Japanese [astronomer has captured several meteor strikes on the moon](https://www.space.com/stargazing/meteors-showers/astronomer-captures-possible-geminid-meteors-smashing-into-the-moon-video%20?ref=japanearthobserver.com) \[Space.com\]. Daichi Fujii, the curator of the **Hiratsuka City Museum** in Japan, captured the strikes December 6-8, during the annual Geminid meteor showers. - A joint AI project by **Yamagata University** and **IBM Research** has [nearly doubled the number of known Nazca geoglyphs](https://www.yamagata-u.ac.jp/en/information/info/20240924/?ref=japanearthobserver.com). It took almost 100 years to discover the first 430 geoglyphs. The AI-enabled project found 303 more in just six months. \[[Full paper](https://www.pnas.org/doi/pdf/10.1073/pnas.2407652121?ref=japanearthobserver.com)\] ![25-02-04-nazca-geoglyphs.png](https://storage.ghost.io/c/54/e9/54e9159b-1345-41dd-b7dd-180de33edc5b/content/images/2025/02/25-02-04-nazca-geoglyphs.png) Fifteen of a total of 303 newly discovered relief-type figurative geoglyphs from the AI-assisted survey. Credit: PNAS paper authors: Masato Sakai, Akihisa Sakurai, Siyuan Lu, and Marcus Freitag - **University of Tokyo** [researchers have developed a data set and model of the long-ignored mesophere layer of atmosphere](https://www.space.com/the-universe/earth/earths-elusive-ignorosphere-could-shed-new-light-on-auroras%20?ref=japanearthobserver.com) \[Space.com\] - The joint **ESA-JAXA BepiColombo** mission has [successfully completed its sixth Mercury gravity-assist flyby](https://www.esa.int/Science%5FExploration/Space%5FScience/BepiColombo/Top%5Fthree%5Fimages%5Ffrom%5FBepiColombo%5Fs%5Fsixth%5FMercury%5Fflyby?ref=japanearthobserver.com) \[ESA\]. This is the last gravity-assist maneuver until the spacecraft makes its final arrival in Mercury orbit in late 2026. - Ryugyu samples returned from the [**Hayabusa 2** mission have helped reveal early solar system magnetic fields](https://www.space.com/the-universe/asteroids/asteroid-pieces-brought-to-earth-help-reveal-how-our-solar-systems-planets-and-moons-grew%20?ref=japanearthobserver.com) \[Space.com\]. The second of Japan’s Hayabusa asteroid missions returned material from the Ryugu asteroid in 2020, but five years later, the science from that mission is still unfolding. - A joint **Japanese-French science team**’s [research suggests that the rings of Saturn formed much earlier than previously thought](https://www.pbs.org/newshour/world/study-suggests-saturns-rings-could-be-4-5-billion-years-old-just-like-the-planet?ref=japanearthobserver.com) \[PBS\]. Evidence from the Cassini mission to Saturn had suggested formation of the rings had occurred in the past 300-400 million years. However, this new research, led by Hyodo Ryuki, Chief Scientific Officer (CSO) at **SpaceData** and including Gustavo Madeira from **IPGP** and Université Paris Cité, and Genda Hidenori from **Science Tokyo** (University of Tokyo) indicates that the rings may have formed 4.5 billion years ago, around the same time as the planet formed \[[IPGP article](https://www.ipgp.fr/en/news-and-agenda/news/a-new-perspective-on-the-age-of-saturns-rings/?ref=japanearthobserver.com)\] ### 🗺️ International Collaborations - Japan [plans to join the **Habitable Worlds Observatory** project](https://english.kyodonews.net/news/2025/01/7c2e16616686-japan-to-join-us-led-space-telescope-project-in-search-for-life.html%20?ref=japanearthobserver.com) \[Kyodo\]. NASA is developing the [Habitable Worlds Observatory (HWO)](https://science.nasa.gov/astrophysics/programs/habitable-worlds-observatory/?ref=japanearthobserver.com) concept for launch in the 2040s. It will be the first space telescope designed specifically to not only find Earth-like exoplanets but also signs of water and atmosphere that could support life. It will be a successor to the currently operating James Webb Space Telescope and the Nancy Grace Roman Space Telescope expected to launch in 2027\. NASA currently expects it to be a major international effort with as many as 50 countries making contributions. A specialized team from within JAXA will work on potential contributions; it’s expected to leverage Japanese experience developing instruments for the Subaru Telescope in Hawaii. - The **U.S. Space Force** has [activated a new unit in Japan](https://www.usfj.mil/Media/Press-Releases/Article-View/Article/3984003/space-force-activates-component-field-command-in-japan/?ref=japanearthobserver.com) \[U.S. Forces Japan\]. This is the sixth service component created by the U.S. Space Force and is based at [Yokota Air Base](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Yokota%5FAir%5FBase?ref=japanearthobserver.com) (横田飛行場) in Tokyo. The Japan Ministry of Defense (JMoD) has established multiple space force units under the SDF, and the new U.S. component is an effort to better integrate U.S. and Japan defense efforts with particular attention to [countering China’s rapidly growing space defense capabilities](https://spacenews.com/u-s-and-japan-forge-stronger-space-alliance-to-counter-china/%20?ref=japanearthobserver.com) \[SpaceNews\]. This new unit is called USSPACEFOR-JPN and it will be overseen by HQ USSPACEFOR-INDOPAC \[if the U.S. military ever decides to replace bullets with acronyms, they will have a massive arsenal\]. The U.S. Space Force’s [“hosted payload” on the new QZS-6 satellite represents an early bilateral victory lap](https://www.spaceforce.mil/News/Article-Display/Article/4055022/space-systems-command-japan-launch-first-bilateral-space-effort/?ref=japanearthobserver.com) \[USSF\]. ## Asia-Pacific Conferences & Events This newsletter is mostly focused on Japan, but I also like to highlight events across the Asia-Pacific region as well. First, YouTube [videos of the FOSS4G Japan 2024 conference sessions](https://www.osgeo.jp/events/2024-2/foss4g-2024-japan/coreday?ref=japanearthobserver.com) held at Senhu University in November 2024 are now available. Some upcoming conferences include: - [International Space Industry Exhibition (ISIEX)](https://www.jetro.go.jp/en/database/j-messe/tradefair/detail/139977?ref=japanearthobserver.com), 29 - 31 January 2025 - Tokyo Big Sight - Nikkan Kogyo Shimbun - this event had 20,000 visitors in 2024 - - [Global Space Technology Convention & Exhibition 2025](https://space.org.sg/gstce/%20?ref=japanearthobserver.com) (GSTC) - 26 - 28 February 2025 Singapore - [FOSS4G Hokkaido](https://foss4g.hokkaido.jp/2024/?ref=japanearthobserver.com), 14 February 2025, Sapporo, Hokkaido, Japan - [State of the Map Japan](https://stateofthemap.jp/2024/%20?ref=japanearthobserver.com) \- 15 February 2025, 1p - 6p, Sapporo, Hokkaido, Japan - [India Space Congress](https://www.indiaspacecongress.com/?ref=japanearthobserver.com) \- 27-27 June 2025 - New Delhi, India - [Spacetide](https://spacetide.jp/en/news/4225/?ref=japanearthobserver.com) \- 7 - 10 July 2025 - Toranomon, Tokyo, Japan - [35th International Symposium on Space Technology and Science (ISTS) & 14th Nano-Satellite Symposium (NSAT) Joint Symposium](https://ists.ne.jp/the35th/?ref=japanearthobserver.com) \- 12 - 18 July 2025 - Asti Tokushima, Japan ## The QZSS: a GPS for Japan, but better On February 2 a Mitsubishi Heavy Industries H3 rocket [successfully launched the Michibiki 6 navigation satellite](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=uZkj9FkYMyQ&ref=japanearthobserver.com) \[YouTube\] for Japan’s QZSS constellation. This the fifth launch of the new H3 rocket was in its H3-22S configuration with two solid fuel strap-on boosters necessary to loft the almost 5,000kg satellite to its initial geosynchronous transfer orbit. From there, it will move itself into a geosynchronous orbit and join the other QZSS satellites. ### Some History The Quasi-Zenith Satellite System (QZSS) (準天頂衛星システム) is a significant departure from other global navigation satellite systems (GNSS). To understand how and why it is different, it may be helpful to delve into a bit of history. The U.S. GPS system (formerly, Navstar) is the oldest GNSS with the first satellite launched in 1978 and a full constellation of 24 satellites completed in December 1993\. Initially designed for military purposes, the GPS was declared a dual use (military and civilian) national asset by President Clinton in 1996 and on 2 May 2000 the so-called “Selective Availability” feature (whereby civilian use of the GPS was deliberately degraded) was turned off and never turned back on. From one day to the next, a radio signal could be processed to determine a fairly accurate location (+/- 5 meters) for anyone possessing a compatible receiver. Applications from surveying to aircraft and vehicle navigation rapidly became available, and with smart phones and applications like Google Maps, instant access to location and navigation tools became part of our daily lives. The United States has launched new GPS satellites to gradually improve the accuracy and utility of the system. However, GPS upgrades have been veeeerrrry slllloooowwww 🐌🐌🐌🐌. GPS III was approved by Congress in 2000 but the first Block III satellite was not launched until 2018, there are still only seven of them, and a full constellation of 24 is still many years away. A modernized ground control segment, called OCX, began development in 2010 but it is billions of dollars over budget and is still not complete, fifteen years later (nice work, Raytheon). Given the military legacy, the selective availability “feature”, and other reasons, Russia, the European Union, and China moved to develop their own independent navigation constellations to rival the GPS, known as GLONASS, Galileo, and BeiDou (北斗), respectively. The GLONASS and BeiDou constellations developed separately, but after some initial tension, the US and Europe agreed in 2004 to collaborate on the design of the new Galileo radio signals. Galileo and GPS would use different radio frequencies that could coexist without interference while also supporting combined use of both systems by end users, though this would require new receivers to detect the Galileo signal. At the same time, in case of a war, NATO and the United States would be able to use electronic warfare systems to selectively block either or both signals within a given conflict theater. ![25-02-05-GPS-Galileo-friends.jpeg](https://storage.ghost.io/c/54/e9/54e9159b-1345-41dd-b7dd-180de33edc5b/content/images/2025/02/25-02-05-GPS-Galileo-friends.jpeg) GPS and Galileo are friends, though GPS has 3 arms, for some reason. Credit: Google Galileo AI ### How do navigation satellites work? All of the GNSS constellations work in fundamentally the same way. Each satellite carries extremely stable atomic clocks that are synchronized with one another as well as similar clocks located in a network of ground stations distributed around the planet. The satellites regularly send signals to the ground stations. Because the speed of radio waves (e.g. speed of light) is a constant, and the ground and satellite clocks are all synchronized and very accurate, the time it takes for the signal to arrive can be measured in order to determine the distance between the two. By calculating this distance from multiple ground stations, the location of the satellite can be computed with a high degree of precision. Each satellite keeps a log of its own position and time, which it broadcasts continuously. If you have a receiver on the Earth, say your smart phone, and your view of the sky includes at least four satellites, your receiver can calculate your position in four dimensions (x, y, z, and time). \[It’s actually a bit more complicated than that because those atomic clocks get a tiny bit less accurate as they age, the satellites are whizzing around in medium Earth orbit (MEO) at about 14,000 kph, their roughly circular orbits aren’t perfectly circular, and, well, relativity (h/t to Einstein). So the clocks in orbit drift a bit over time and they have to be corrected by the ground stations.\] ## Why does Japan need its own satellite navigation system? Much of the public justifications provided by the government for Japan building its own navigation system have focused on civilian applications like better navigation, road safety, precision agriculture, disaster response, and autonomous vehicles. And, to be sure, Japan does have a lot of mountains and urban canyons (which create location accuracy problems) as well as labor supply shortages that create demand for robotics and autonomous vehicles. And, of course, having better navigation accuracy and precision is undoubtedly a good thing. However, I think we also have to consider two other factors: national security and domestic industrial pressure. ![06-michibiki-agriculture.png](https://storage.ghost.io/c/54/e9/54e9159b-1345-41dd-b7dd-180de33edc5b/content/images/2025/02/06-michibiki-agriculture.png) Michibiki enables autonomous farm vehicle operation. Credit: Japan Cabinet Office On the defense front, Japan faces significant regional threats from North Korea, China, and Russia. These concerns struck home with significant potency when North Korea launched its first Taepo Dong ballistic missile in 1998 on a flight path that went directly over the Japanese islands. The Taepo Dong Shock (テポドン・ショック), as it became known, was a watershed moment in Japan, akin to the effect that the Sputnik launch had in the United States. Further, it coincided with the early stages of a long period of economic stagnation, several high profile and expensive failures in the Japanese space program, and the collapse of the domestic satellite manufacturing industry after the U.S. applied its Section 301 trade law. A wholesale reexamination of both defense and space priorities followed. Japan had been worried about DPRK missile capabilities for some time. The government allowed the Self-Defense Forces (SDF) (自衛隊) to use space-based observation and communications systems where they already existed, but that pretty much amounted to buying imagery from commercial companies like Digital Globe and Space Imaging (now Maxar), but, critically, the government did not allow the SDF to develop its own defense satellites. Japan was thus completely reliant on what the United States military was willing to pass along. The United States had a very sophisticated signals intelligence and military observation capability with dozens of satellites and ground facilities (including an eavesdropping facility in Misawa, Japan). It turned out that an American reconnaissance satellite had seen the flames from the launch of the Taepo Dong missile but had not relayed that information to the relevant folks in Tokyo. In the aftermath, the Japanese government made a rapid series of decisions aimed at developing its own capabilities. First, it bought a new Patriot missile array and anti-missile capabilities for its existing Aegis destroyers. Next, in December 1998, Japan began developing a constellation of optical and radar military observation satellites. Developed in secrecy and given the bland moniker, “Information Gathering Satellite” (IGS), they borrowed from the existing civilian ALOS and JERS Earth observation technology and were likewise manufactured by Mitsubishi Electric. In addition to IGS, Japan began developing electronic eavesdropping and communications satellites, known as Kirameki (きらめき), as well as an optical data relay satellite, Kodama (こだま). The fourth defense-related satellite program was a navigation system, the Quasi-Zenith Satellite System (QZSS), also known as Michibiki (みちびき - roughly translating as “guidance”). It’s important to note that these programs are funded and operated out of either the Japanese Ministry of Defense (JMoD) or the Cabinet Office (内閣府), rather than the explicitly civilian JAXA. As such, while civilian applications are emphasized in the public materials (and I am certaintly not suggesting that those civilian uses are insincere), the QZSS is clearly also a backup to the American GPS that is capable of helping military planes, ships, and missiles navigate their way to their intended targets. Beyond defense objectives, there were also business interests. The Keidanren (Japan Business Federation 日本経済団体連合会) had proposed a satellite navigation system in 1999 and the big manufacturers and systems integrators, like NEC, Toshiba, Itochu, and Mitsubishi Electric made various proposals as well. Given the evisceration of the domestic satellite industry over the previous decade by the application of Section 301 by the U.S, the industrial enthusiasm was understandable; it would enable them to get back in the satellite manufacturing game. Further, if the system had military applications, it would not be subject to Section 301\. Japan potentially could have accelerated the deployment of these new military satellites, but it chose to largely develop the technology domestically and thereby cultivate both the skills and the industrial capacity. ### It’s GPS… but better The QZSS navigation satellites were expensive systems to design, develop, and deploy. However, though the technology was developed and built domestically, Japan elected to work closely with the United States in order to make the systems interoperable. Essentially, Japan would create a navigation system that would *augment* the existing American GPS constellation, improving its accuracy and precision in the Asia-Pacific region, rather than building a separate global system in the way that Europe, China, and Russia had done. At the same time, it could potentially become a backup in case the GPS became unavailable. In close collaboration with the United States, the development team designed the system to transmit signals directly compatible with the GPS L1C/A signal, as well as the modernized GPS L1C, L2C signal and L5 signals. This signal design meant that, unlike Galileo, there would be minimal changes for existing GPS receivers to use the signal. But that was just the start. The QZSS would extend this core GPS signal design in several key ways. First, the QZSS broadcasts Sub-meter Level Augmentation (SLAS) data on the L1 band. This is similar in concept to the [Wide Area Augmentation System (WAAS)](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Wide%5FArea%5FAugmentation%5FSystem?ref=japanearthobserver.com) operated by the U.S. Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) to augment GPS for commercial aircraft. Next, a Centimeter Level Augmentation (CLAS) service provides a high-precision signal compatible with the Galileo E6 service, on the L6 band. Then there is another augmentation service called Multi-GNSS Advanced Orbit and Clock Augmentation – Precise Point Positioning (MADOCA-PPP) which further augments the CLAS L6 signal. In short, there are a lot of acronyms that add up to a lot of augmentation. Finally, there is also a public messaging service for disaster and crisis management, known as “DC Report” and broadcasting on L1S band in case of floods and earthquakes. Bottom line: the QZSS builds on the GPS concept but it provides higher accuracy and precision as well as additional services to a country that plays host to a lot of natural disasters. ### The Curious Orbits of the QZSS Since Japan’s aim was not to build a new global navigation system, but, rather, to accept the existing GPS as it is and augment it for regional needs, they designed a system that would only need four satellites to be fully operational. To support this the QZSS constellation uses a fairly unusual orbit. Most *global* systems rely on a minimum of 24 satellites in medium Earth orbit (MEO); that’s the number necessary to have four satellites visible from most locations on the Earth at any given time. MEO is about 24,000km above the Earth’s surface. ![06-earth-orbits.png](https://storage.ghost.io/c/54/e9/54e9159b-1345-41dd-b7dd-180de33edc5b/content/images/2025/02/06-earth-orbits.png) LEO, MEO, & GEO orbits from [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/List\_of\_orbits](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/List%5Fof%5Forbits?ref=japanearthobserver.com) Credit: Sedrubal, CC-BY-4.0 But Japan did not want satellites that spin around the Earth all day; QZSS needed an orbit that kept the satellites over the Asia-Pacific. They settled on a special type of geosynchronous Earth orbit (GEO), known as a Quazi-Zenith or [Tundra orbit](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Tundra%5Forbit?ref=japanearthobserver.com). QZSS has one satellite in geostationary orbit over Japan and three satellites that are at a similar geosynchronous height (\~40,000km) but are highly inclined. Each satellite orbits with a 120° separation from the other two. On the ground their orbit traces a figure-8 pattern over the Asia-Pacific region designed to ensure that one satellite is over Japan at all times. While the orbit was obviously designed for Japan’s needs, it provides the same benefits of improved location for the whole Asia-Oceania region. ![QZSS Orbit Polar View](https://storage.ghost.io/c/54/e9/54e9159b-1345-41dd-b7dd-180de33edc5b/content/images/2025/02/07-qzss-orbit-polar-view.gif) ![QZSS Orbit Front View](https://storage.ghost.io/c/54/e9/54e9159b-1345-41dd-b7dd-180de33edc5b/content/images/2025/02/08-qzss-orbit-equatorial-view-front.gif) ![QZSS Orbit Side View](https://storage.ghost.io/c/54/e9/54e9159b-1345-41dd-b7dd-180de33edc5b/content/images/2025/02/09-qzss-orbit-equatorial-view-side.gif) QZSS orbit animation from: \[https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Quasi-Zenith\\\_Satellite\\\_System\\#Satellites\](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Quasi-Zenith\_Satellite\_System#Satellites) Credit: Phoenix7777, CC-BY-4.0 ### Next Generation Michibiki The new QZS-6 that was just launched is the first of a three-satellite expansion of the current QZSS system. QZS-5 and QZS-7 are expected to be launched over the next year. An additional expansion to eleven satellites is also planned for the future. The expanded constellation structure will support redundancy, additional services, and the potential need to operate independently from GPS. Apart from growing the QZSS constellation, QZS-6 and QZS-7 will carry [an extra payload on behalf of the U.S. Space Force](https://executivegov.com/2024/12/us-japan-qzs-6-satellite-space-domain-awareness-payload/?ref=japanearthobserver.com). The extra sensors, which were [designed and built by the MIT Lincoln Laboratory](https://www.ll.mit.edu/news/lincoln-laboratory-designing-payload-integrate-japanese-satellites?ref=japanearthobserver.com), will improve detection and tracking of objects and orbital debris in geosynchronous orbit, a type of mission known as “space domain awareness”. While there are clearly civilian needs to better understand the location and trajectory of objects in GEO orbit, these sensors are also aimed at tracking increasingly sophisticated Chinese defense and reconnaissance satellites capable of dynamically altering their orbits. The U.S. and the EU collaborated to ensure that their GPS and Galileo projects were compatible, even if they had different signal designs. But if the U.S. and EU were friends on GNSS constellation development, the use and extension of the GPS signal design and hosting of U.S. sensors on QZSS satellites suggests that the U.S. and Japan are more than just friends in this domain. ![10-GPS-QZSS-dating.jpeg](https://storage.ghost.io/c/54/e9/54e9159b-1345-41dd-b7dd-180de33edc5b/content/images/2025/02/10-GPS-QZSS-dating.jpeg) *GPS and QZSS are more than just friends. Credit: Google Galileo AI* ### QZSS gets five star rating from India Several aspects of Japan’s approach to building a GNSS have been emulated by India. The [Indian Regional Navigation Satellite System (IRNSS)](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Indian%5FRegional%5FNavigation%5FSatellite%5FSystem?ref=japanearthobserver.com), also known as NavIC, is an autonomous regional system that leverages similarly inclined geosynchronous (the Tundra orbit that inscribes a figure-8 when viewed from the ground) and geostationary orbits to support navigation and timing services for India plus an area about 1,500km around it. Interestingly, India had an analogous experience to the Taepo Dong incident in Japan. In 1999, India and Pakistan went to war in Kargil. India requested access to the GPS and was denied by the United States. While Selective Availability was turned off the following year, the Indian government determined to build their own system and approved the project in 2006. ### Conclusion Building and operating a navigation satellite constellation is a gigantic technical challenge and a significant expenditure for any nation. Japan has been thoughtful, creative, and pragmatic in its efforts, building on the foundations created by the United States, while significantly extending those ideas with new capabilities that meet its domestic civilian and national security needs. In the meantime, it’s made navigation and positioning services better for everyone operating in the Asia-Pacific and Oceania regions. It deserves an enormous amount of credit. More soon, Robert Also delightful in the dark of night Stars in the stream. – Uejima Onitsura (1661-1738) - translated by William Scott Wilson 闇の夜も 又おもしろや 水の星 *Yami no yo mo* *mata omoshiro ya* *mizu no hoshi* ### JEO 1 - 2024 Year in Review URL: https://www.japanearthobserver.com/japan-earth-observer-1-2024-year-in-review/ Last updated: 2025-02-07T15:41:08.000Z ## Welcome to Japan Earth Observer *Welcome to the first edition of Japan Earth Observer (JEO), a free monthly newsletter with a news roundup and an in-depth article about the space, Earth observation and geospatial technology industries in Japan. In this edition, I’m going to write a bit about my motivations for the newsletter as well as summarize some major developments in 2024.* First, I should probably introduce myself and explain a bit about why I’ve started this newsletter. I have been working in the geospatial technology world for almost 30 years. I began my technology career doing geospatial data analysis and software development for municipal government in Philadelphia. After a four-year tour of duty in local government, I struck out on my own and started Azavea, a geospatial software engineering company (and a B Corporation) that I would lead and grow over the next 22 years. But before my geospatial career, I lived and worked in Japan. I had studied Japanese language, history, and culture at the University of Michigan and after I finished my degree, I worked in local government in a small town in Shiga Prefecture as a Coordinator for International Relations, a program operated by the the Ministry of Education, Culture, Sports, Science and Technology (MEXT). It was an incredible first professional experience, enabling me to improve my Japanese language skills as well as an opportunity to learn about the world of work and to travel broadly in Japan and the rest of Asia. I left Japan in 1994 to attend graduate school in Philadelphia, where I studied Landscape Architecture and received an introduction to geospatial technology. After more than two decades as the founder and CEO, I sold Azavea in 2023 to Element 84, and following a brief stint as Chief Strategy Officer with them, I found myself on an [unplanned sabbatical](https://www.linkedin.com/pulse/azavea-element-84-japan-whats-next-me-robert-cheetham-ymdhe/?ref=japanearthobserver.com). I decided to use some of my newly available time to travel, and at the top of my list was spending some time in Japan again. Apart from a brief vacation in Japan more than a decade ago, I had been away for almost 30 years. Being there again was revelatory for me. I found it unexpectedly nourishing and restorative for reasons I cannot entirely explain, and I returned to the U.S. with a conviction that I wanted to find opportunities to more substantively reconnect my life to Japan. A key challenge, however, is that while I have almost three decades of experience working with geospatial data, software, and Earth observation technology, my geo career has been in North America and in the English language, and I have neither the language nor the context to operate professionally in Japan. My Japanese language skills had slowly seeped back into my head while I was traveling there in 2024, but I had never acquired the vocabulary and context to be able to have meaningful conversations in Japanese about my geospatial technology work. So alongside my newfound conviction - reconnect with my life in Japan - I returned to Philadelphia with a pile of books and a desire to dive back into learning Japanese. I wrote and spoke on a range of technology and entrepreneurship topics for Azavea and Element 84\. This newsletter will be a bit different. Rather than building and growing a business, I hope it will represent part of my effort to combine two components of my professional life: geospatial technology development and Japan. Over my career, I’ve learned that if I really want to understand a topic, it helps me to write about it. The act of trying to explain something to others in written form helps me learn. Further, I have often found that writing helps me think. So that’s what this is, my effort to learn and think through writing. Along the way, I also hope to meet new people, reconnect with long-time colleagues, deepen my understanding on an array of Earth observation topics, and improve my Japanese language skills. For those of you familiar with my past work, I remain both fascinated and motivated by many of the same themes that drove my work at Azavea: cultivating an open knowledge ecosystem (open data, open source, open science, open standards), building institutions, and applying geospatial technology in service of public good, and this newsletter will likely reflect those interests as well. Thank you for joining me on this journey. ## News & Announcements - 2024 in Review For this first newsletter, I’m going to highlight a few major 2024 stories from the Japan space and Earth observation ecosystem, but for future editions, I plan to briefly summarize this type of information on a monthly cadence. ### Astroscale successfully approaches orbital debris and also goes public Astroscale, founded in 2013 by Okada Nobu, has had a big year. After a successful launch in February, the ADRAS-J mission tested an innovative spiraling approach orbit to a multi-ton H-IIA rocket upper stage. Unlike most industrial manufacturing endeavors, satellites do not really have an “after-market” whereby the equipment can be supported and maintained after it reaches orbit. That’s both a huge waste (we end up deorbiting satellites that may still have a useful life if they could be refueled) and leaves dangerous debris in orbit to potentially impact and damage other satellites. Astroscale’s ADRAS-J satellite was able to approach within 50m of an uncontrolled rocket body multiple times, observe the debris from close range, and test a collision avoidance system. The ability to safely approach a piece of debris, known as Rendezvous and Proximity Operations (RPO), is a major step toward being able to capture and actively remove orbital debris. The followup contract, to be carried out by ADRAS-J2, was awarded in August and will involve not only RPO but removal and deorbit of the rocket body using a robotic arm. While ADRAS-J was carried out for JAXA under the Commercial Removal of Debris Demonstration (CRD2) program, Astroscale sees a global market for its services and has opened offices in France, Israel, UK and the United States, and Astroscale U.S. has already been awarded a $25.5 million Space Force contract to develop a refueling spacecraft, and the UK Space Agency awarded two contracts this year to Astroscale for the ELSA-M and COSMIC debris removal missions. Astroscale is betting that active debris removal, refueling, life extension, and other services will make them a leader in on-orbit servicing missions. The various contracts mean that it’s already accumulating a good-sized contract backlog. - [ADRAS-J debris approach](https://astroscale.com/astroscales-adras-j-continues-to-make-history-successfully-demonstrates-fly-around-observations-of-space-debris/?ref=japanearthobserver.com) \[Astroscale\] - [Astroscale Finalizes Contract for Debris Removal Mission](https://spacenews.com/astroscale-finalizes-contract-for-japanese-debris-removal-mission/?ref=japanearthobserver.com) \[SpaceNews\] - [Satellite refueling concept of operations](https://spacenews.com/astroscale-reveals-concept-of-operations-for-its-in-orbit-refueling-vehicle/?ref=japanearthobserver.com) \[SpaceNews\] - [Astroscale valued at $1 billion](https://asia.nikkei.com/Business/Markets/IPO/Japan-space-debris-cleaner-Astroscale-valued-at-1bn-in-market-debut?ref=japanearthobserver.com) \[Nikkei Asia\] - [UK Space Agency contract for COSMIC deorbiting mission](https://payloadspace.com/astroscale-wins-next-phase-of-uks-cosmic-mission/?ref=japanearthobserver.com) \[Payload\] - [Astroscale and ELSA-M design review for de-orbit of OneWeb satellite](https://spacenews.com/astroscale-approaches-critical-design-review-for-oneweb-de-orbit-mission/?utm%5Fsource=ActiveCampaign&utm%5Fmedium=email&utm%5Fcontent=Vega%20C%20rocket%20prepares%20for%20first%20flight%20after%20redesign&utm%5Fcampaign=FIRST%20UP%202024-12-02) \[SpaceNews\] - [Japan is Ground Zero for Space Sustainability](https://payloadspace.com/how-japan-became-ground-zero-for-space-sustainability/?oly%5Fenc%5Fid=2248C3877912F8W&ref=japanearthobserver.com) \[Payload\] - [Astroscale IPO](https://spacenews.com/astroscale-shares-soar-in-tokyo-stock-market-debut/?ref=japanearthobserver.com) \[SpaceNews\] ![02-Astroscale-stock-chart.png](https://storage.ghost.io/c/54/e9/54e9159b-1345-41dd-b7dd-180de33edc5b/content/images/2025/01/02-Astroscale-stock-chart.png) ### Next generation H3 rockets launch Japan has been launching satellites to space with solid-propellent rockets since 1958 and liquid-fueled rockets capable of inserting satellites into geostationary orbit since 1975\. In the late 1960’s and early 1970’s, the United States government forced Japan to license outdated and blackboxed Thor-Delta technology to enable Japan’s early liquid-fueled rockets. The licensing restrictions and black-boxing were naturally irritating to the Japanese government, and Japan set out to build its own sovereign, domestic liquid-fueled rocket design in the 1980’s, The first H-I series rocket was launched from Tanegashima Space Center in August 1986\. Subsequent generations of H-II and H-IIA rockets have increased their capacity and capability while also steadily reducing the launch cost. The first test flight of the latest generation H3 rocket in March 2023 failed, destroying the ALOS-3 Earth observation satellite it carried, but 2024 saw the successful second, third, and fourth flights of the new H3 rocket. While it’s not reusable and probably not capable of the Falcon 9’s launch cadence, the H3 has reduced launch costs over previous generations, and Mitsubishi Heavy Industries, the primary manufacturer, successfully closed a deals to sell H3 launches scheduled for 2027 to Eutelsat and for the UAE Space Agency’s asteroid mission in 2028\. Japan is aiming for 30 launches per year by the early 2030’s. It was a big year for H3. - [H3 is successful on second launch attempt](https://spacenews.com/h3-reaches-orbit-on-second-launch/?ref=japanearthobserver.com) \[SpaceNews\] - [H3 launches ALOS-4 EO satellite in June 2024](https://spacenews.com/h3-launches-alos-4-advanced-earth-observation-satellite/?ref=japanearthobserver.com) \[SpaceNews\] - [H3 lofts Kirameki defense comms satellite in Nov 2024](https://spacenews.com/japan-launches-kirameki-3-military-communications-satellite-with-h3-rocket/?ref=japanearthobserver.com) \[SpaceNews\] - [MHI sells H3 launches to EUTELSAT](https://spacenews.com/eutelsat-signs-multi-launch-agreement-for-mhis-h3-rocket/?ref=japanearthobserver.com) \[SpaceNews\] - [UAE buys H3 launch for Asteroid Belt Mission](https://www.agbi.com/tech/2024/10/uae-and-mitsubishi-sign-agreement-for-asteroid-belt-mission/?ref=japanearthobserver.com) \[AGBI\] ![03-H3-rocket-config.png](https://storage.ghost.io/c/54/e9/54e9159b-1345-41dd-b7dd-180de33edc5b/content/images/2025/01/03-H3-rocket-config.png) *H3 launch vehicle configuration options. Credit: JAXA* ### Wooden Satellites! Japan is a land of people who craft amazing things, but building satellites out of wood? They are doing it. Kyoto University and Sumitomo Forestry have built a demonstration satellite in which all of the aluminum parts have been replaced by wood from magnolia trees. Why? There is increasing concern about pollution from metal particles in the upper atmosphere when satellites burn up on reentry. The research team had already sent wood samples for testing different tree species outside the Kibo research module on the ISS. The coffee mug-sized LignoSat (after the Latin word for wood, lignum) is the next step, it was launched to the ISS in November 2024, and it will be deployed from Japan’s Kibo module to test the impact of the orbital environment on the wood components for about six months before reentering the atmosphere. More than 70% of of the Japanese archipelago is covered with forest, and the Japanese people have created amazing things from wood for more than a thousand years. 2025 will see one of the largest wood structures, a huge wood ring building, completed for the Osaka Expo. Japan is also experimenting with using cellulose fibers (e.g. wood) to reduce plastic use in high performance vehicles. - [First wooden satellite](https://www.space.com/japan-september-launch-first-wooden-satellite?ref=japanearthobserver.com) \[Space.com\] - [Japanese Satellite Bets on an Ancient Material: Wood](https://www.nytimes.com/2024/11/05/science/japan-wooden-satellite.html?smid=nytcore-android-share&ref=japanearthobserver.com) \[NY Times\] - ['Grand Ring' by Sou Fujimoto for Expo 2025 Osaka](https://www.archdaily.com/1020560/completion-of-sou-fujimotos-grand-ring-highlights-expo-2025-osakas-master-plan?ref=japanearthobserver.com) \[ArchDaily\] - [Japan’s New Wood is Five Times Stronger than Steel](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=KM5b8xjHkc4&ref=japanearthobserver.com) \[Nikkei Film\] - [First Wooden Satellite Deploys from Space](https://www.nasa.gov/image-article/jaxas-first-wooden-satellite-deploys-from-space-station/?ref=japanearthobserver.com) \[NASA\] ![04-LignoSat.png](https://storage.ghost.io/c/54/e9/54e9159b-1345-41dd-b7dd-180de33edc5b/content/images/2025/01/04-LignoSat.png) *Internal view of LignoSat’s structure shows the relationship among wooden panels, aluminum frames, and stainless-steel shafts. Credit: Kyoto University* ### Mr. Kishida Goes to Washington Japan was one of the eight founding signatories of the [Artemis Accords](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Artemis%5FAccords?ref=japanearthobserver.com) in October 2000, and JAXA collaboration with NASA and NOAA has been ongoing for decades. But over the past year, Japan-US cooperation on space exploration and research has significantly deepened. The Biden administration has been working hard to cultivate bilateral security and technology relationships with a range of Asia-Pacific nations, and Japan has been a key focus. During an April 2024 visit, Prime Minister Kishida closed several agreements between Japan and the U.S. Under one of these, the “Lunar Surface Exploration Implementing Arrangement’, two Japanese astronauts will be joining future Artemis lunar missions, and, in exchange, Japan is going to contribute a pressurized lunar rover. To that end, JAXA and Toyota unveiled designs for a “[Lunar Cruiser](https://www.space.com/japan-moon-rover-lunar-cruiser-for-astronauts.html?ref=japanearthobserver.com)” they have been developing over the past five years. The Lunar Cruiser will be able to serve as a pressurized habitat in which astronauts can live for days or weeks at a time. When will it launch? I’d guess the early 2030’s. In addition to ongoing collaboration on the ISS, the Lunar Gateway, and other missions, there was also talk of Japan contributing to NASA’s [Dragonfly mission to Titan](https://science.nasa.gov/mission/dragonfly/?ref=japanearthobserver.com) and the [Nancy Grace Roman Space Telescope](https://roman.gsfc.nasa.gov/?ref=japanearthobserver.com) as well as NASA contributing to JAXA’s Next-generation Solar-observing Satellite (SOLAR-C). Other Japan-U.S. discussions in 2024 included efforts to improve defense and space manufacturing supply chain integration, Japan (alongside Poland) joining the Wideband Global Satcom (WGS) military communications infrastructure, and establishment of a U.S. Space Force service component, United States Space Forces – Japan (or, because who doesn’t like unwieldy acronyms: USSPACEFOR-JPN). It’s hard to say how this will develop under Trump, but both the Artemis Accords and the Artemis lunar program originated during the first Trump administration, and I would guess that much of this collaboration will continue. - [Astronauts and lunar rover agreement](https://www.space.com/japan-astronauts-moon-rover-artemis-agreement?ref=japanearthobserver.com) \[Space.com\] - [The U.S. and Japan need more supply chain cooperation](https://asia.nikkei.com/Editor-s-Picks/Interview/Utah-governor-calls-for-stronger-U.S.-Japan-supply-chain-cooperation?ref=japanearthobserver.com) \[Nikkei Asia\] - [Artemis Accords reaches 50 signatories](https://spacepolicyonline.com/news/artemis-accords-reach-50-with-panama-and-austria/?ref=japanearthobserver.com) \[Space Policy Online\] - [Japan and Poland joining Wideband Global Satcom (WGS)](https://spacenews.com/japan-poland-to-join-u-s-military-satellite-network/?ref=japanearthobserver.com) \[SpaceNews\] ![05-Toyota-rover.png](https://storage.ghost.io/c/54/e9/54e9159b-1345-41dd-b7dd-180de33edc5b/content/images/2025/01/05-Toyota-rover.png) *Artist's illustration of the planned Toyota/JAXA crewed rover on the moon. Credit: Toyota/JAXA* ### Japan Collaborates a Lot This will probably be an ongoing theme that I’ll highlight periodically: if you are JAXA and you only get ¥154 billion (\~$1b at recent exchange rates) for your budget (compare this to €7.8B for ESA and $24.875 billion for NASA), the best way to get things done and increase your impact is probably going to be partnering with others, and Japan has been actively collaborating with NASA, NOAA, ESA, ISRO, and others for decades. ![06-JAXA-budget.png](https://storage.ghost.io/c/54/e9/54e9159b-1345-41dd-b7dd-180de33edc5b/content/images/2025/01/06-JAXA-budget.png) *JAXA budget 2015 - 2024\. Credit: Stastista* Some contemporary JAXA collaborations include: - [NASA/JAXA XRISM X-ray observatory started yielding some great science](https://science.nasa.gov/missions/xrism/nasa-jaxa-xrism-mission-looks-deeply-into-hidden-stellar-system/?ref=japanearthobserver.com) \[NASA\] - [JAXA/ESA Bepi-Columbo mission](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/BepiColombo?ref=japanearthobserver.com) just did another flyby in it’s long trip to Mercury - [The ESA/JAXA EarthCARE research mission focused on clouds and aerosols launched in May](https://www.esa.int/Applications/Observing%5Fthe%5FEarth/FutureEO/EarthCARE/A%5Ffirst%5FEarthCARE%5Freveals%5Finner%5Fsecrets%5Fof%5Fclouds?ref=japanearthobserver.com) \[ESA\] - [Future JAXA and ESA will include asteroid Apophis, mars, moon, and planetary defense](https://spacenews.com/esa-and-jaxa-sign-statement-on-expanding-deep-space-cooperation/?ref=japanearthobserver.com) \[SpaceNews\] - The [Lunar Polar Exploration (LUPEX) lander](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Lunar%5FPolar%5FExploration%5FMission?ref=japanearthobserver.com) is a collaborative project between ISRO and JAXA. The current plan is for JAXA to provide the H3 launch vehicle and a lunar rover and for ISRO to develop the lander based on the [Chandrayaan-3](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Chandrayaan-3?ref=japanearthobserver.com) and [Chandrayaan-4](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Chandrayaan-4?ref=japanearthobserver.com) missions. The LUPEX mission is also expected to sport instruments from NASA and ESA. ![07-Bepi-Colombo.png](https://storage.ghost.io/c/54/e9/54e9159b-1345-41dd-b7dd-180de33edc5b/content/images/2025/01/07-Bepi-Colombo.png) *BepiColombo sixth flyby. Credit: ESA/BepiColombo/MTM* ### More Moon Stuff In addition to what I wrote a bit about Japan’s future involvement in the multi-national Artemis program, both JAXA and private Japanese companies are engaged in a range of activities aimed at the Moon. With the [Smart Lander for Investigating Moon (SLIM)](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Smart%5FLander%5Ffor%5FInvestigating%5FMoon?ref=japanearthobserver.com) landing on January 19 in Mare Nectaris, south of the Theophilus crater, Japan became the fifth country in history to successfully land on the moon. Despite a late-game thruster failure, the SLIM lander lived up to its "Moon Sniper" nickname and arrived within 50 meters of its planned location, successfully released two small lunar rovers, and then proceeded to survive several months of lunar nights. Japanese startup, [ispace](https://ispace-inc.com/?ref=japanearthobserver.com) (not to be confused with the Chinese space company [i-Space](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/I-Space%5F%28Chinese%5Fcompany%29?ref=japanearthobserver.com)), is planning a second moon landing attempt (the first crashed into the moon in April 2023 due to a software error). The Hakuto R mission 2 lander is now in Florida being prepared for a SpaceX Falcon 9 launch in early 2025\. It was a busy year for ispace as they also opened a new mission control center in Colorado. Finally, [Astrobotic Technology](https://www.astrobotic.com/?ref=japanearthobserver.com), a U.S. space robotics developer building yet another lunar rover, inked an agreement with Bridgestone to develop a special tire for the CubeRover. - [Japan’s Bet on the World’s Lunar Space Race](https://payloadspace.com/japans-bet-on-the-worlds-lunar-race/?ref=japanearthobserver.com) \[Payload\] - [SLIM makes pinpoint landing and releases rovers](https://spacenews.com/japans-slim-achieved-pinpoint-moon-landing-with-just-one-working-engine/?ref=japanearthobserver.com) \[SpaceNews\] - [ispace sets second moon landing attempt](https://payloadspace.com/ispace-sets-second-moon-landing-attempt-for-december/?ref=japanearthobserver.com) \[Payload\] - [ispace 2nd lunar lander arrives in Florida for early 2025 launch](https://www.space.com/space-exploration/missions/private-japanese-moon-lander-arrives-in-florida-ahead-of-january-spacex-launch-photos?ref=japanearthobserver.com) \[Space.com\] - [ispace sets up Colorado mission control center](https://ispace-us.com/2024/09/ispace-u-s-unveils-colorados-newest-mission-control-center-for-its-u-s-lunar-missions/?ref=japanearthobserver.com) \[ispace\] - [Astrobotic rover will have Bridgestone tires](https://www.astrobotic.com/bridgestone-partners-with-astrobotic-to-develop-lunar-rover-tire/?ref=japanearthobserver.com) \[Astrobotic\] ![08-Astrobotic-rover.png](https://storage.ghost.io/c/54/e9/54e9159b-1345-41dd-b7dd-180de33edc5b/content/images/2025/01/08-Astrobotic-rover.png) *Astrobotic rover with Bridgestone tire concept. Credit: Astrobotic* ### Setbacks While there have been an array of milestones and accomplishments in the Japan space and Earth observation ecosystem this year, there have also been a number of setbacks as well. **Rockets blowing up** - *Space One Kairos:* The first flight of the privately developed Japanese rocket, Kairos, built by Space One, ended in failure when the rocket exploded about five seconds after liftoff on March 12, 2024\. It was the first attempted launch from a new spaceport on the Kii Peninsula in western Japan. Kairos tried again this week and the rocket lasted longer, but blew up again about two minutes after launch. \[[Space News](https://spacenews.com/first-kairos-rocket-explodes-seconds-after-liftoff/?ref=japanearthobserver.com)\] \[[Space.com](https://www.space.com/space-exploration/private-spaceflight/private-japanese-rocket-explodes-after-liftoff-in-its-2nd-launch-failure-of-2024-photos?ref=japanearthobserver.com)\] - *Epsilon S booster test:* JAXA announced in December 2024 that the launch of the first Epsilon S rocket is unlikely to happen by March 2025 as planned due to a second explosion during ground tests for the second-stage solid-fuel booster. This had followed the first explosion in a test in July 2023\. \[[Asahi Shimbun](https://www.asahi.com/ajw/articles/15524097?ref=japanearthobserver.com)\] \[[Space.com](https://www.space.com/space-exploration/launches-spacecraft/new-japanese-rocket-engine-explodes-during-testing-for-2nd-time-in-16-months?ref=japanearthobserver.com)\] \[[Nippon.com](https://www.nippon.com/en/news/yjj2024120501082/?ref=japanearthobserver.com)\] **Science Spacecraft** - *XRISM door is stuck*: In January 2024, the X-ray Imaging and Spectroscopy Mission (XRISM), a JAXA mission with instruments developed in collaboration with NASA, experienced a failure of the aperture door for its Resolve instrument, which prevented the door from opening. While the instrument can still operate, the team decided to put attempts to open the door on hold for 18 months and move forward with the science program as-is. It’s producing good science, but it’s impeded by the door issue. \[[Space News](https://spacenews.com/nasa-and-jaxa-to-operate-xrism-as-is-despite-instrument-issue/?ref=japanearthobserver.com)\] - *Plucky Akatsuki Venus mission went silent:* Akatsuki (あかつき, 暁, "Dawn") was sent to Venus in 2010 but it’s main thruster failed the planned orbital insertion in December 2010\. However, in 2015 JAXA was able to use its attitude thrusters to move it into a highly elliptical orbit around Venus and start its original science mission to study the climate and atmosphere. While it had only a two year planned lifespan, its operation was extended by several years until April 2024, when JAXA lost contact. A [Dec 7 X/Twitter message](https://x.com/Akatsuki%5FJAXA/status/1865367645832507722?ref=japanearthobserver.com) suggested recovery operations are continuing, but it was humanity’s only active mission to Venus, and it’s unclear if it can be recovered. \[[Ars Technica](https://arstechnica.com/space/2024/05/our-only-mission-at-venus-may-have-just-gone-dark/?ref=japanearthobserver.com)\] \[[Space.com](https://www.space.com/jaxa-loses-contact-akatsuki-venus-probe?ref=japanearthobserver.com)\] - *BepiColombo has a dodgy thruster:* The BepiColombo spacecraft, a joint mission between ESA and JAXA launched in 2018, experienced a thruster “glitch” on 26 April 2024, causing a drop in power to the thrusters. Power was restored to 90% capacity by 7 May, but the spacecraft is continuing to operate without its full thrust, and it looks like this will delay its arrival at Mercury from 2025 to November 2026\. It has already been a long trip including an Earth flyby, two Venus flybys, and six planned Mercury flybys, all to provide gravity assists. BepiColombo just made its fifth Mercury flyby on 1 December 2024\. After a sixth gravity assist, it will make the orbital insertion to Mercury. BepiColombo actually has three components. The Mercury Transfer Module (MTM) is hauling everyone to the planet (and it’s the part with the dodgy thruster). When it arrives, it will release two additional orbiters. The Mercury Planetary Orbiter (MPO) was built by ESA and has eleven instruments (par for the course at ESA, every country and their brother has built an alphabet soup of sensors). The second orbiter, Mercury Magnetospheric Orbiter (MMO) was mostly built by Japan and has five instruments that will study the plasma, solar wind, dust, and magnetic field around Mercury. Most Japanese missions have a nickname, usually selected from suggestions by the public. The nickname for the MMO is *Mio*, which means “waterway” and is a nod to the Japanese and Chinese name for Mercury, the “water star” (水星) \[[Space.com](https://www.space.com/the-universe/mercury/bepicolombo-probe-captures-haunting-mercury-image-on-5th-of-6-gravity-assist-flybys-photo?ref=japanearthobserver.com)\] **Cybersecurity Breaches** After revelations in 2023 of major cybersecurity breaches and mishandling of classified documents in the Ministry of Defense, JAXA revealed it had also suffered a series of cyberattacks beginning in June 2023\. Hackers initially stole the personal data of approximately 5,000 JAXA personnel and employees from partner companies (including NASA, Toyota Motor Corp., Mitsubishi Heavy Industries Ltd. and the Defense Ministry) and then used that information to access the Microsoft 365 accounts of JAXA executives. More than 10,000 Microsoft Office files may have been stolen. JAXA said that no sensitive information related to national security or rocket technologies was lost, but it’s not a good look for JAXA. \[[Nikkei Asia](https://asia.nikkei.com/Spotlight/Cybersecurity/Japan-space-agency-hacking-reveals-cyber-espionage-risk?ref=japanearthobserver.com)\] \[[Asahi Shimbun](https://www.asahi.com/ajw/articles/15456087?ref=japanearthobserver.com)\] These setbacks represent significant challenges for Japan's space and Earth observation programs, but it is important to note that the Japanese space program has a history of resilience and innovation, and it is likely that they will be able to overcome these challenges and continue to make significant contributions. ### AI and Japan in 2024 Ok, so AI is not necessarily space and Earth observation, the topic of this newsletter. But I’m going to include it here as I think AI technology developments will have a significant impact on data processing of geospatial data transferred from Earth observation constellations. Further, at least one Japanese firm is a current leader in the development of a foundation geospatial model. If you only read the technology news in Europe and North America, you could easily come to the conclusion that all of the major developments in AI are all happening at Anthropic, OpenAI, Google, and Meta. That would be a mistake. In addition to significant progress at Chinese firms like O1.AI creating high quality AI models at low cost, Japan is attracting significant investment from US tech firms, and Japanese firms, like Sakana, are both pioneering new AI model development approaches and raising substantial funds to compete at the global level. First, the investments from abroad. On the heels of significant investments by AWS (more than $15 billion!), Google, Microsoft, NVIDIA, and Meta, OpenAI announced significant investments in both improving the speed of its Japanese language processing and creating a Tokyo subsidiary that will enable it to address local market needs. All told, U.S. tech firms have announced data center and AI-related investments of more than $26 billion in Japan. But while these massive investments will no doubt bolster the economy, they also carry the potential for increased dependence on U.S. digital technology. Japan continues to enjoy a trade surplus in manufactured goods, but it imports far more digital goods (everything from streaming media to cloud computing) than it exports, and the 2024 digital trade deficit was more than double that in 2015, rising to $ 33 billion. Thus far, the Japanese government has had a relatively light regulatory approach to AI and has actively courted foreign AI investment as well as supporting development of domestic capabilities. AI is seen as a key long-term mechanism to counter the impact of labor shortages from the declining population as well as a way to leverage long-term and ongoing investments in SE Asia. In addition to data centers. U.S., EU, Chinese, and Japanese firms are all investing in performance improvements to generative AI models for the Japanese language. The intricate writing system, lack of white space, and vibrant digital culture (emoji and kaomoji both originated in Japan) add complexity to LLM development and specialized evaluation systems and leaderboards have been created over the past year to test and measure model performance. Lastly, the domestic AI action. Tokyo-based R&D startup, [Sakana AI](https://sakana.ai/?ref=japanearthobserver.com), has raised $200 million to support AI model development in service of scientific discovery. Many of its Series A investors are Japanese companies, and catalyzing a domestic Japanese AI ecosystem is an explicit company objective. This will require investment in expanding the domestic AI talent pool as well as cultivation of an AI research community in Japan. Sakana’s initial year has focused on applying “nature-inspired” approaches to foundation model development, such as combining thousands of existing AI models to “evolve” better composite models through “crossover” and “mutation”. Most of the leading AI firms have been focused on building ever-larger AI models, improving performance but also incurring exponentially greater computing, energy, and financial cost. Rather than developing large models, Sakana aims to evolve a “diverse swarm of niche models” as a more sustainable path (e.g. less energy, less compute) to creating advanced AI agents. In August, Sakana announced [AI Scientist](https://sakana.ai/ai-scientist/?ref=japanearthobserver.com), a system for automating scientific discovery, from idea generation to iterative experimentation, paper writing, and paper evaluation. They also have [a great blog](https://sakana.ai/blog/?ref=japanearthobserver.com) and regularly publish in both English and Japanese. Sakana is not the only domestic AI story that caught my eye in 2024\. [Degas](https://www.degasafrica.com/?ref=japanearthobserver.com) is a Tokyo-based financial services firm that pairs smallholder farmer financing with training, tools, and practices that increase yields and encourage regenerative agriculture, thereby improving soils over time. Though based in Tokyo, most of their employees work directly with farmers in Ghana. They have gradually invested in mobile software, remote sensing data, and, recently, geospatial foundation AI models that enable them to improve the resources they can provide to farmers. It is entirely too common for a cool technical innovation to be developed for its own sake and only later are real-world applications considered; this has certainly been true for satellite remote sensing constellations, and I think many AI investments continue to search for business value proportional to their investment. I see Degas as a rare example of a firm for which the product or service came first, and the geospatial and AI technology are a means to that end. Efforts like [Clay](https://madewithclay.org/?ref=japanearthobserver.com) and the [NASA/IBM Prithvi](https://science.nasa.gov/science-research/ai-geospatial-model-earth/?ref=japanearthobserver.com) geospatial models have received a lot of attention, but Degas has quietly built a world-leading geospatial AI model by focusing on delivering value to its customers, smallholder farms in Africa, and they now have a model that can be applied to other geospatial applications as well. - AWS, Google, and Microsoft increase data center investments in Japan \[[Nikkei Asia](https://asia.nikkei.com/Business/Technology/Artificial-intelligence/AI-to-lift-cloud-investment-to-460bn-in-2025-more-than-Apollo-program?ref=japanearthobserver.com)\] \[[CloudPro](https://www.itpro.com/infrastructure/data-centres/aws-microsoft-and-google-see-massive-cloud-opportunities-in-japan-heres-why?ref=japanearthobserver.com)\] - Japan is light on AI regs \[[Nikkei Asia](https://asia.nikkei.com/Business/Technology/Artificial-intelligence/Japan-goes-light-on-AI-regulation-to-court-investment?ref=japanearthobserver.com)\] - OpenAI is invests in tripling Japanese language performance \[[Nikkei Asia](https://asia.nikkei.com/Business/Technology/OpenAI-triples-Japanese-language-processing-speed%20?ref=japanearthobserver.com)\] - Japanese Language LLM Leaderboards - Open Japanese LLM Leaderboard on HuggingFace \[[About](https://huggingface.co/blog/leaderboard-japanese?ref=japanearthobserver.com)\] \[[Leaderboard](https://huggingface.co/spaces/llm-jp/open-japanese-llm-leaderboard?ref=japanearthobserver.com)\] - Nejumi LLM Leaderboard Neo \[[Leaderboards, graphs, and explanation](https://wandb.ai/wandb-japan/llm-leaderboard/reports/Nejumi-LLM-Leaderboard-Evaluating-Japanese-Language-Proficiency--Vmlldzo2MzU3NzIy?ref=japanearthobserver.com)\] - Japan to help SE Asia with AI \[[Nikkei Asia](https://asia.nikkei.com/Business/Technology/Artificial-intelligence/Japan-to-help-Southeast-Asia-develop-AI-in-local-languages%20?ref=japanearthobserver.com)\] - Fujitsu investing in OpenAI rival \[[Nikkei Asia](https://asia.nikkei.com/Business/Technology/Artificial-intelligence/Fujitsu-invests-in-OpenAI-rival-Cohere-eyeing-Japanese-language-model%20?ref=japanearthobserver.com)\] - Sakana raises $200 million to fund alternative AI approach \[[Nikkei Asia](https://asia.nikkei.com/Business/Technology/Artificial-intelligence/Japan-s-Sakana-AI-by-Google-alums-to-become-unicorn-in-under-a-year%20?ref=japanearthobserver.com)\] - Degas uses generative AI on AWS to help smallholder farmers in Ghana \[[AWS re:invent](https://reinvent.awsevents.com/content/dam/reinvent/2024/slides/aes/AES303%5FDegas-uses-generative-AI-on-AWS-to-help-smallholder-farmers-in-Ghana.pdf?ref=japanearthobserver.com)\] ## Asia-Pacific Conferences & Events While I’m mostly focused on Japan in this newsletter, I’d like to highlight some events across the Asia-Pacific region as well as those in Japan. - [International Space Industry Exhibition (ISIEX)](https://www.jetro.go.jp/en/database/j-messe/tradefair/detail/139977?ref=japanearthobserver.com), 29 - 31 January 2025 - Tokyo Big Sight - Nikkan Kogyo Shimbun - this event had 20,000 visitors in 2024 - - [Global Space Technology Convention & Exhibition 2025](https://space.org.sg/gstce/%20?ref=japanearthobserver.com) (GSTC) - 26 - 28 February 2025 Singapore - [FOSS4G Hokkaido](https://foss4g.hokkaido.jp/2024/?ref=japanearthobserver.com), 14 February 2025, Sapporo, Hokkaido, Japan - [State of the Map Japan](https://stateofthemap.jp/2024/%20?ref=japanearthobserver.com) \- 15 February 2025, 1p - 6p, Sapporo, Hokkaido, Japan - [India Space Congress](https://www.indiaspacecongress.com/?ref=japanearthobserver.com) \- 27-27 June 2025 - New Delhi, India - [Spacetide](https://spacetide.jp/en/news/4225/?ref=japanearthobserver.com) \- 7 - 10 July 2025 - Toranomon, Tokyo, Japan - [35th International Symposium on Space Technology and Science (ISTS) & 14th Nano-Satellite Symposium (NSAT) Joint Symposium](https://ists.ne.jp/the35th/?ref=japanearthobserver.com) \- 12 - 18 July 2025 - Asti Tokushima, Japan --- A bee staggers out of the peony – Matsuo Basho (1644-1694) - translated by Robert Hass 牡丹蘂深く 分け出づる蜂の 名残り哉 *botan shibe fukaku* *wake izuru hachi no* *nagori kana*