Greetings – Prosperous Society through Satellite Earth Observation Technology
MAEJIMA Hironori, Senior Chief Officer of Earth Observation&
Director of the Satellite Applications and Operations Center, Space Technology Directorate I
Addressing global challenges such as climate change requires a more comprehensive understanding of the Earth’s system and improved accuracy in predicting the future of the global environment, and observation is indispensable for building the foundation knowledge to assess the current state of the Earth environment. Japan has well-developed ground-based observation networks, but it is not easy to observe in the waters surrounding the country. In addition, there are many countries that do not have a well-developed ground-based observation network. Satellite Earth observation is the most effective means of providing a bird’s eye view and continuous observation of the entire planet.
The Space Technology Directorate I of JAXA aims to contribute to creating a prosperous future, by focusing on the needs of future society and enhancing capacity to generate solutions for its achievement, toward the creation of even more necessary innovations, through R&D and utilization of Earth observation system, in collaboration with diverse partners both domestically and internationally.
Written in April 2025
OCHIAI Osamu, Director of the Earth Observation Research Center,
Space Technology Directorate I
EORC was established in April 1995 as a new organization to promote Earth Science research, calibrate and validate JAXA’s Earth Observation satellite data, and conduct applied research. EORC evolved from the Earth Observation Center (EOC), which was the center for receiving, recording, processing, and distributing data. The year 2025 marks the 30th anniversary of EORC and the start of JAXA’s new mid- to long-term plan. As we reach this critical milestone, we will build on our progress and achievements to enhance our activities further and maximize our achievement to develop the value creation of Earth Observation satellite data.
When EORC was established, JAXA had two Earth Observation satellites in operation. Since then, 14 satellites have been launched, with eight currently in operation, providing data on the Earth’s environment and its changes. Alongside international partners, JAXA will deliver observational data from these satellites to society and the scientific community while developing cutting-edge research results.
As an example of advanced results, the Japan-Europe joint mission “Hakuryu” (EarthCARE), which began observations in May 2024, became the first in the world to observe the three-dimensional structure of clouds and aerosols with high precision. Using data from Hakuryu, we are working to reduce the uncertainty of climate change projections and advance research into understanding changes in the global climate and environment. In July 2024, ” Daichi 4″ (ALOS-4) was launched as a next-generation satellite following Daichi 2, allowing for a wider observation range and increased observation frequency over a broader area. In addition, JAXA is expected to provide high value-added information, including future projections, to many people by combining satellite observation and analysis with ground observation data and analyzing it using the latest data processing technologies, such as artificial intelligence (AI).
Organization
In JAXA, Earth observation research and promotion of data application are conducted in four organizations: the Earth Observation Research Center, the Satellite Applications and Operations Center, the Earth Observation Center, and the Regional Satellite Applications Center for Disaster Management.
■ About Earth Observation Research Center
The Earth Observation Research Center (EORC) was founded in April 1995 to conduct acquisition and processing of Earth observation satellite data and application research.
Main activities of EORC are as below.
(1) Analysis of satellite data and scientific research
We analyze observation data acquired by Earth observation satellites, develop algorithms to derive geophysical parameters, calibrate and validate satellite data, and try to maintain the quality of the data.
We also promote application research of satellite data in the fields of meteorology, management of forestry and fisheries resources, disaster prevention and national land use, and global environmental changes. EORC organizes Research Project to conduct these activities smoothly.
(2) Research on observing sensor/Development and operation of the ground data handling system
(3) Cooperation with related institutions
To promote further utilization of satellite data, we also cooperate with related domestic and foreign institutions as well as international organizations and engage in mutual use of data and data application research.
JAXA EORC Pamphlet (PDF 1.5MB)
■ About Satellite Applications and Operations Center
The Satellite Applications and Operations Center (SAOC) was founded in May 2006 to promote the utilization of data obtained by Earth observation satellites, and develops, operates, and maintains ground systems.
Main activities of SAOC are as below.
(1) Promoting the utilization of satellite data
Support for actions to solve issues using satellite data in government and private sectors
Building and operating disaster prevention system, emergency response to large scale disasters in Japan and abroad
Cooperation with Asian countries and international coordination
Activity to promote the utilization of satellite data in various fields and User support
(2) Development, operation and maintenance of ground systems for satellites
Development, operation and maintenance of ground systems for Earth observation satellite control, data processing, data storage, and data provision
Related coordination, research and rollout of new technology/industry trend
■ About Earth Observation Center
The Earth Observation Center (EOC) conducts image processing, inspection and analysis. The processing data is provided to local governments, research institutes and universities and utilized in various fields, such as resolution of environmental issues, disaster monitoring and resource exploration. Also, in order to utilize satellite data effectively, a project to collect related data internationally and provide it as data sets is going on under the global cooperation.
■ About Regional Satellite Applications Center for Disaster Management
The Regional Satellite Applications Center for Disaster Management (RSCD) cooperates with Yamaguchi Pref. and Yamaguchi University and promote the utilization of satellite data for local disaster management, the development of analysis technology for disaster, the development of human resources to analyze satellite data, and so on. The result of these factual efforts is reported to other local government through Kyushu-Chugoku-Sikoku University regional disaster management liaison meeting and overseas through Sentinel Asia and the International Disasters Charter. Also, RSCD supports creation of new business using satellite data led by Yamaguchi Pref. and Yamaguchi University and the space education activity to develop educational leaders.
Donations
JAXA is also promoting research development based on generous donations. We welcome your kind support for further development of Earth observation research and the utilization of satellite data.
Donation to application research of satellite data etc. (Japanese only)
https://www.jaxa.jp/about/donations/type/type09_j.html
JAXA donations (Japanese only)
https://www.jaxa.jp/about/donations/
