Orbital Servicing Robots
Since the launch of the first artificial satellite in 1957, the number of man-made objects in Earth’s orbit, such as spent satellites and rocket debris, known as “space debris,” has continued to increase. These objects pose a risk of collision with active satellites and the International Space Station, creating a significant problem. In response to these challenges, in-orbit services that repair, refuel, and remove malfunctioning satellites are gaining attention and are considered key to sustainable space utilization. The Yoshida Laboratory at Tohoku University has been at the forefront of research into orbital service robots, participating in orbital experiments with the world’s first robotic experimental satellite, the “Technical Test Satellite VII” (ETS-7), launched in 1997. The Kuwabara Laboratory is developing technology to enable satellites to move freely between orbits, contributing to the construction of next-generation space infrastructure.
Lunar/Planetary Exploration Robots
Lunar and planetary exploration robots move across the surfaces of celestial bodies such as the Moon and Mars, collecting data on terrain, soil, and the environment. By autonomously traveling, observing, and analyzing data even in extreme environments, these robots are expected to play an important role as a foundation for future manned exploration and resource utilization. In the Hayabusa asteroid exploration project, which was launched in 2003 and returned in 2010, Tohoku University played a key role. The university contributed significantly to the development of sample collection technology on asteroid Itokawa and the analysis of samples brought back from Itokawa. Additionally, from 2011 to 2018, the university participated in the international lunar exploration competition “Google Lunar XPRIZE,” engaging in technical collaboration with global competitors. The outcomes of these activities have been inherited by ispace Inc., a startup company aiming for lunar landing.
Robotics for Lunar Outpost Construction
In recent years, the possibility of water ice existing in the polar regions of the moon has increased, attracting significant attention. These water resources can be used not only for drinking water and oxygen production but also as raw materials for rocket propellants, making them a key element for future sustainable lunar activities. Currently, under international collaboration, the exploration of water resources on the moon and the construction of manned bases are being considered. At the Yoshida Laboratory at Tohoku University, as part of the Cabinet Office’s Moon Shot Research and Development Program, research and development is underway on a modular AI robot system designed to support lunar exploration and base construction. This technology is expected to bring revolutionary changes to future lunar activities. Additionally, Tohoku University is actively advancing research in life sciences to support long-term human stays in space environments, as well as studies related to space agriculture.
Microsatellite Missions
The Yoshida-Kuwahara Laboratory at Tohoku University has been engaged in pioneering development of ultra-small satellites to demonstrate space utilization and space exploration. The “RISING” satellite launched in 2009 and its successor, “RISING-2,” successfully achieved high-resolution Earth observation and multi-wavelength imaging, demonstrating the potential of advanced missions using ultra-small satellites to the world. These developments are also significant as practical education programs where students are involved in all aspects of design, manufacturing, testing, and operation, contributing to the cultivation of comprehensive space technology capabilities. Furthermore, such initiatives have led to the emergence of university-based startups in the space field, such as “ElevationSpace Co., Ltd.” and “Sisuruna Technology Co., Ltd.,” contributing to the social implementation of research outcomes and the creation of new space businesses. Tohoku University is recognized as a core hub for ultra-small satellite development and space innovation in Japan.
