SpaceRef - Government and Politics

SpaceRef - Government and Politics - Japan

NASDA (National Space Development Agency)

FAS Guide to Japanese Space Activities - This site, hosted by FAS, the Federation of American Scientists, provides an overview of governmental and commercial space activities in Japan.

Fundamental Policy of Japan's Space Activities - This January 1996 report by Japan's Space Activities Commission provdes an overview of the various research and technology programs to be undertaken by Japan. This includes launch vehicles, scientific probes, and commercial activities.

Institute of Space and Astronautical Science (ISAS) - The Institute of Space and Astronautical Science (ISAS) is the main institute dedicated to space and astronautical science in Japan. ISAS dates to the beginning of Japanese space science activity in launch systems and spacecraft. ISAS continuously conducts space science research by making the maximum use of its own launch vehicles, scientific satellites, planetary probes, and balloons.

Kashima Space Research Center (KSRC) - Kashima Space Research Center (KSRC) was established in May, 1964 as a branch of the Radio Research Laboratories (present Communications Research Laboratory), Ministry of Posts and Telecommunications to develop satellite communications technology. The study of satellite communication has grown to include large volume satellite communication, satellite broadcasting, and mobile communications. Radiowave remote sensing study was started as a result of the satellite radiowave propagation experiments. Satellite control technology is also one of the key study objectives. The Very Long Baseline Interferometry (VLBI) project at KSRC is originated from the radio astronomical study. The precise data provided by VLBI are used to monitor the Earth's rotation and for examining the plate tectonics.

National Aerospace Laboratory (NAL) - The NAL is part of Japan's Science and Technology Agency and is involved in all aspects of aviation and aerospace research and development.

National Astronomical Observatory of Japan (NAOJ) - As the Inter-University Research Institute for astronomical research in Japan, the National Astronomical Observatory provides advanced observational facilities to researchers from throughout Japan. The observatory organizes a variety of joint-research projects, and serves as a facilitator of international cooperation.

Space Activities Commission - The Space Activities Commission was established in the Prime Minister's Office in order to make a contribution to the planned and comprehensive promotion of Japan's space activities, and their democratic management. The Commission carries out planning, deliberation and decisions concerning important matters for space activities, and then, notifies the Prime Minister of these opinions.

Space Commercialisation Law and Policy in Japan - A summary from 1996 of commerical law and policy in Japan. Published by ESA.