December 26 updated

Japan is proud of its world-class solid rocket technology. In the next-generation solid-rocket system that will succeed the M-V rocket retired in 2006, we will simultaneously fulfill two competing requirements: high performance and low cost. In addition to improving the vehicle, we aim to innovate the launching system in order to enable frequent satellite launches.

Nobember 27 updated

The X-ray astronomy satellite Suzaku, launched in July 2005, observed a mysterious enhancement event of soft X-ray background radiation. Using the detailed spectral data obtained from the satellite, its origin was apparently confirmed to be the charge exchange interaction of solar wind ions with neutral materials around the earth.

Nobember 1 updated

Solar cell production shows rapid growth and the development of new quality-evaluation technologies plays an important role in their continued growth. A variety of evaluation methods are being developed using photoluminescence, allowing us to assess a huge number of test samples in a short time with high-accuracy.

July 9 updated

Material science research on the solar system has been advanced by meteorite analysis and groundbased observation of asteroids. One large discrepancy remained unsolved, however. This article introduces the observation results of the asteroid explorer HAYABUSA that challenged to resolve the mystery and presents expectations for future explorations following the HAYABUSA to elucidate the origin and evolution of the solar system.

July 2 updated

Research is progressing on propulsion systems using nitrous oxide and ethanol as a nontoxic liquid propulsion system that can also be used in education. With firing experiments already complete, the next target is to develop a flight model in the next five years with the aim of introducing the engine to future solid rockets or reusable space-transportation systems.

June 15 updated

A cataclysmic variable is comprised of two stars and changes its brightness drastically. Among the many mysteries of cataclysmic variables are the nature of the accretion disk and the boundary layer formed between the stars. These mysteries are being elucidated by recent, advanced X-ray spectroscopic observations including those by the X-ray astronomical satellite SUZAKU now in service.

May 28 updated

The Aurora-observation satellite REIMEI launched in 2005 is a small 70kg satellite. Its unique concept was an insistence on in-house development as much as possible. This article reviews the lessons learned and troubles experienced in the development of the attitude control systems critical for observation satellites. These lessons are useful for future satellite development.

March 23 updated

The Aurora shinning in the night sky is generated by high-speed charged particles entering the earth’s atmosphere. These charged particles originate from the solar wind. This article outlines the latest research and new discoveries regarding solar wind and the earth’s magnetosphere, and introduces a future plan for formation-flight observation by multiple satellites.

February 9 updated

Lightning is a very common luminous phenomenon to us, but still has many unsolved mysteries. This article outlines the latest observations of and research into lightning, and introduces an observation plan of the solar system’s planetary atmosphere with a space telescope now under planning.

January 24 updated

Inflatable structures, a typical example of which is the Tokyo Dome, have many advantages, such as the provision of a large space, light weight and few mechanical components. These features are also effective and advantageous in space. This article outlines technologies for the three processes - deployment, inflation and curing - required to build the structure and also introduces future applications in space.