Since the launch of Japan’s first artificial satellite OHSUMI on February 11, 1970, scientific satellite programs have been the most important mission for the former ISAS (currently, ISAS of JAXA). By May 2003, ISAS had sent 27 satellites and solar system explorers into earth orbit and interplanetary space, and achieved a number of results that led the world's space science. The new ISAS of JAXA succeeds past results and will continue to tackle many of the universe’s mysteries using scientific satellites and explorers, thus contributing to the progress of mankind.

• Catalogue of ISAS Missions

ISAS’s scientific satellite missions are selected through a unique procedure that ensures high-quality scientific research. Each project is managed systematically and carefully.

• ISAS Mission Selection Procedures
• Project Management at ISAS
• An Example: Development of the ASCA (ASTRO-D) Project