Politica fundamental de las actividades espaciales de la NASDA.

Revisado por la Comision de Actividades Espaciales el 24 de Enero de 1996.

Tabla de Contenidos

Chapter1. Basic Policy and Space Development

1-1.Basic Policy

1-2.Development

Chapter2. Organisation of Space Development

2-1.Priority Areas for Space Development

2-2.Space activities in Individual Fields

Chapter3. Institutional Structure of Space Development

Chapter4. International Cooperation

Chapter5. Promotion of Space Activities in the Private Sector

5-1.Promotion of Space Activities in the Private Sector

5-2.Promotion of the Use of Space in the Private Sector

Chapter6. Preparations for the Promotion of Space Activities

6-1.Public Understanding

6-2.Training

6-3.Facilitation of Information Flow

6-4.Indirect Measures for Space Development

6-5.Securing Financial Resource

6-6.Orderly Space Development

PREFACIO

Life on Earth started in the sea, then moved to land and then to the sky. Mankind, now in the forefront of evolution is using science and technology to move into space.

Mankind has been long seeking answers to basic questions: Why does space and the solar system exist? How was life created on the Earth? Scientific research into those question conducted in space will become increasingly important in the 2lst century. Knowledge obtained by space activities is likely to make us all think differently about the universe, the Earth, and life itself, contributing to the creation of a new philosophy and culture, and to the establishment of an intellectual, mature society.

As we have already seen, satellite services have become an essential part of our daily lives. These services include satellite communication and broadcasting, navigation by the global positioning system (GPS) for ships and cars, and weather forecasts by meteorological satellites. These satellite services will become more sophisticated , an indispensable part of an advanced information society, and contribute to improved life styles. In addition, unique characteristics of space such as the microgravity environment is expected to yield new materials and medicines.

Satellites can also detect and observe accurately changes in the weather, oceans , and land surfaces, as well as global warming, deforestation, increase in desertification, the state of ozone layer, and disasters. Activities in space, then, have considerable potential for contributing to science, and for preserving the environment.

Furthermore, space technology must be high reliable and operate in a severe environment. As such, it is a highly sophisticated generic technology which integrates various fields of science and technology. Efforts to develop and advance space technology could yield new industrial technologies in fields such as materials, computer, robotics, electronics, communications, and information processing. It is expected to create a new industrial sector using these technologies.

Finally, space can be one of the most challenging fields for young people to pursue. It is, therefore, very important to make young people dream of space, and give them an enterprising spirit. This will contribute to development, not only in science and technology, but also in other fields, as well as maintain the vitality of our economy and society.

With the importance of developing space in mind, Japan has made incessant efforts in this field, beginning with the development of small rockets at Tokyo University's Institute of Industrial Science. Since then, Japan has become highly regarded by the international community in various fields of space science. In space development and application fields , such as communications, broadcasting, and meteorological satellites, Japan has developed its own technology. Through successful launches of the H-II, and the development of various satellites, Japan has achieved world class standards in some space technologies.

The US and Russia are now shifting the emphasis of their space programs from military projects and matters of national prestige, to cost/benefit contexts and high technology development for use in commercial applications.
In addition, Europe is actively promoting commercial launch services, and China is participating in commercial activities with its own technology. There is thus a growing emphasis among those major countries on the civilian use of space.
Another new development in space is Russia's participation in the International Space Station Project, a collaborative project between the US, Europe, Japan, and Canada. That international cooperation is likely to become common, especially in the field of large space development projects like the space station.
Two factors can thus be identified as important themes for worldwide space development in the 2lst century : civilian use and international cooperation.

As a result of the above- mentioned changes at home and abroad, Japan should now take a new approach to its space activities in the 2lst century. We should recognize the significance of space development and the world wide trend towards both civilian use and international cooperation in space activities. We have to play an active role in international space projects by improving our level of our space technology, and by pursuing the use of space from a global standpoint.

The Basic Law on Science and Technology enacted in November 1995 proclaims the promotion of science and technology as one of the most important national themes, and requires that science and technology be promoted in a well- balanced, well-organized manner. We consider it extremely important not only to encourage space science and earth science, but also to stimulate R & D in advanced space technologies in order to create new technology or new industries . To promote science and technology in accordance with the afore mentioned Basic Law, we must pursue more robust and qualified space development.

The Space Activities Commission formulated the Fundamental Policy for Japan's Space Activities, a long-term basic guideline for Japan's space activities, in March 1978. Since then the Commission has revised the policy twice, in February 1984 and June 1989, to accommodate changes in the domestic and world situations.
The Space Activities Commission has now revised the policy again, based upon the above-mentioned notions and upon the report called " Toward the Creation of a Space Age in the New Century " produced by the Special Committee on Long- Term Vision, one of the Committees under the Commission. The revised version should shape the future direction and framework of Japan's space activities for the next ten years.

To ensure the appropriateness of Japan's space development policy, the revised version will be reviewed regularly in light of progress in science and technology, or on domestic and foreign events.

1 . Basic Policy and Implementation of Space Development

1- 1. Basic Policy

Japan promotes the development of space in the context of the domestic and international situation, and for peaceful purposes, based on the following basic policies.

1. Promotion of Creative Science Research and Technology Development We will promote

• • Space science which deepens our understanding of the origins, structures, and evolution of the universe and the solar system,
  • Earth science which investigates long-term changes in the global environment, and other matters related to the use of satellite observation data, as well as,
  • Material and life sciences which use space.

1. Encouragement of Development to Meet Social Needs
   We will make an efforts to apply the results of our development of space to other areas in society. At the same time, we will encourage the development of space by keeping close contact with users.
2. Improvements in Space Economics
   Special efforts will be made to cut space transportation costs and to increase the cost/benefit ratio of satellites, to gain public support for space development.
3. Promotion of International Cooperation
   Keeping the characteristics of space development in mind, we will pursue an active role in international space cooperation, and one appropriate to Japan's position in the world.
4. Well-Balanced Development of Manned and Unmanned Space Systems
   Taking into account the current level of our technology and scale of development, we will continue to emphasize unmanned systems, and develop their reliability and sophistication. Manned systems will be developed within the framework of international cooperation, such as our participation in the International Space Station Project.
5. Development of Space Industry
   To ensure the smooth and effective development of space, it is important to ensure the development of a space industry in Japan, including equipment and component manufacturers. Consideration will therefore be given to healthy development of the space industry in implementing Japan's national space development policy.
6. Preservation of Space Environment
   Space debris has been accumulating since the beginning of space exploration. Due consideration must therefore be given to preserving the environment of space by avoiding the production of more space debris in future space activities.

1-2. Implementation

1. Japan's space activities are being implemented under the "Space Development Plan", a Fundamental Policy of Japan's Space Activities formulated by the Space Activities Commission (SAC), in line with the spirit of the Fundamental Policy, and the " Basic Plan for Space Development " laid down by the Prime Minister acting on SAC's advice.
2. Based upon discussions by SAC subcommittees, we will evaluate the on-going space projects and their results in a timely manner, and develop space in a planned but flexible way.
3. Major space activities are classified into two categories, " development program " and " research program", according to purpose and mission.
4. The " space development program " is divided into the following stages :

• • " development study " establishing system requirements
  • " development " design to launch
  • " operation " after launch

1. With space technology becoming increasingly sophisticated and diverse some of the mission equipment, which requires high technical know- how and a longer time to development, such as the Earth observation sensors , will be transferred from the " research program " stage to the " development program " stage, if necessary, although there may be some uncertainties in tying together systems of related.
2. Programs other than " development " and " research " programs, such as the launching of applications satellites bought by the government, and the consolidating facilities, are also dealt with in the " Space Development Plan .
3. With Japan's financial situation in mind, we will try to eliminate unnecessary expenses.
4. We will cease classifying major space activities into the "space development series", except for some satellites which require systematic and consistent development. This will be described later.

Chapter 2 . Organisation of Space Development Activities

2-1. Priority Areas for the Development of Space

1. Promotion of Satellite Observation and Earth Science
   Satellite observation is becoming increasingly important as a source of useful information for Earth science and as a means of resolving global environment problems.
2. To respond to social needs we will, therefore, develop and operate Earth observing satellites. As a part of this process, we will develop observing sensors, restructure the existing information networks, and reinforce the institutional structure for wide use of observation data.

   In addition to these endeavors, we will try to establish a global Earth observation system through the coordination of observing satellites from various countries.

3. Promotion of Space Science and Lunar Exploration
   We have received high praise from other countries for our efforts in space science. We will now make further efforts to promote astronomical observation and conduct scientific research on the solar system, planets, and asteroids. We will also accumulate scientific knowledge about the moon, including lunar exploration, to evaluate the possibility of exploitation of the moon.
4. Consolidating Space Activities
   The Japanese Experiment Module (JEM), which will be attached to the International Space Station, is called an " Orbital Laboratory " . JEM is expected to play a central role in research activities both in space, and on the ground. An over- all research system will be established in association with the Laboratory in order to consolidate space activities .
5. The Sophistication of Satellite Generic Technology and Utilization
   Japan has accumulated generic satellite technology by developing and operating its engineering test satellites. Japan will further develop these technologies as well as develop advanced satellite missions and equipment for telecommunication, broadcasting, and navigation.
6. Development and Operation of New Infrastructure for Space
   New space infrastructure necessary for our space activities, such as systems and facilities, will be developed and operated. For example, the following projects will be undertaken:

• • The Advanced H-II launch vehicle (H- IIA) will be designed to be both economical and to adapt to growing demands for launching different satellite missions
  • HOPE- Xwill be designed to establish the main technologies for a reusable transportation vehicle capable of drastically reducting transportation costs.
  • Data Relay Test Satellite (DRTS) system will be designed to ensure effective transmission of Earth observation and experimental data

2- 2. Space Activities in Individual Fields

1. Satellite Observation and Earth Science
2. Satellite observation and Earth science contribute to our understanding of many areas, including weather forecasting, climate change prediction, monitoring oceanic phenomena, geology, resources exploration, vegetation, agricultural products , and the oceanic ecosystem. They also provide basic knowledge about how to cope with global environmental issues (global warming, ozone layer depletion, etc.) and natural disasters (earthquake, volcanic eruption, etc.). As a result, it is important to expand the activities in this field.

   (1) Series of Earth Observation Satellites
   A series of Earth observation satellites will be developed and operated in a way to efficiently meet users' needs at home and abroad, and to maintain harmony with other countries' observation and research projects. This will be done through a collaboration by the National Space Development Agency of Japan (NASDA, a development and implementing agency), as well as universities, national research institutes, the private sector, and government agencies. The Earth observation satellite series consists of two categories: atmospheric and oceanic observation satellites and land observation satellites.

   The development/implementing agency and user organizations, will co-operate to improve sensor precision and resolution, and to develop a new sensors. Aircraft, the JEM, and satellites will be used, if necessary, to ensure effective implementation of new sensor developments.

   Meteorological satellites will be launched and operated continuously to provide regular observation data.

   (2) Use of Observation Data
   To improve the use of observational data from Japanese and foreign earth observation satellites, work to verify data validity, standardize data quality and format, and create data processing and analytical software, will be pursued. At the same time, ground stations and an information network for users will be established.

   The development and implementing agency and the user organizations will make joint efforts to reinforce the institutional framework for data use, by using the existing systems for cooperative research and for inviting researchers.

   (3) Global Earth Observation System
   Japan will try to play a proper role in establishing a global earth observation system, in harmony with the earth observing satellites of other countries and through positive international consultation and coordination.

3. Space Science
4. Space science is expected to play an important role in investigating the Earth and solar systems, astrophysics, the evolution of the solar system, and the evolution and structure of the universe. As one of the leading nations in this field, we consider it important for Japan to seek international cooperation and expand our activities in the future.

   (1) Series of Medium- Size Science Satellites and Space Probes
   The medium- size science satellites and space probes will be developed and launched by the M- V rocket about once a year. By using these satellites, science exploration of the near earth space, the moon and asteroids and of the solar system will be conducted together with astronomical observation on wider wavelengths, in conjuction with observation from the Earth.

   (2) Large Science Satellites and Space Probes
   Scientific research and astronomical observation of the sun and planets will be conducted using a large satellite and a space probe, launched either by the H-II launch vehicle or through international collaboration.

5. Moon Exploration
6. As the moon is the closest and most familiar celestial body, exploration of the moon is a first step in extending our space activities beyond the Earth. It is important to accumulate scientific knowledge about the moon, and survey its topography, geology, and mineral composition and mass distribution.

   (1) Unmanned Exploration
   NASDA and the Institute of Space and Astronautical Science (ISAS), in cooperation with other agencies , will conduct an unmanned lunar exploration project including the development of a lunar orbiting satellite and a lunar landing vehicle. Project planning will take into account and international aspects of the venture as well as progress in technology.

   (2) Scientific Observation and Exploration from the Moon
   Keeping other countries' Lunar programs in mind, the National Astronomical Observatory, ISAS, and NASDA will jointly promote research and development of observation technology and lunar infrastructure technology. This will be done for future moon projects such as international lunar observatory and a long-term lunar mission.

7. Communication, Broadcasting, and Navigation
8. In the fields of satellite communication, broadcasting, and navigation, we will deal with growing sophistication and diversification of social needs. It is also important to develop high-risk technology, requiring verification through a series of mission demonstration satellites (described later). This fits in with international trends and with Japan's contribution to the advancement of a future global information and communication system.

   (1) Communication
   Development of personal satellite-based mobile communications will be promoted to help strengthen our communication infrastructure. Advanced satellite communication technology, such as gigabit-class, ultra high-speed satellite communication technology, millimeter-wave or laser satellite communication technology, will be developed with the aim of establishing an international high-speed satellite communication network.

   (2) Broadcasting
   Digital and high precision broadcasting, satellite broadcasting technology related to mobile digital multimedia broadcasting and new broad-bandwidth satellite broadcasting will be developed.

   (3) Navigation
   The GPS navigation satellites launched by the U.S. is used by ships and cars, and as a research tool for determining causes of earthquakes and volcanic activity as well as for measurement required for public use. In order to cope with the growing sophistication and diversification of needs in our country, we will develop elementary technology for navigation systems, to improve precision. We will also develop new navigation technologies associated with communications.

   (4) The Aviation
   A satellite will be launched and operated to ensure safety and efficiency of air traffic control.

9. The Use of Space
10. Space is characterized by microgravity and high vacuum. Research on how to use those characteristics will contribute significantly to scientific knowledge and to creating key technologies for new industries. In particular, the Japanese Experiment Module JEM) which is an " orbital laboratory ", will provide useful research opportunities .

    In addition, we should pursue research on uses of space in various ways including international cooperation, orbital experiments, and joint research projects on the ground among NASDA, universities, and national research laboratories.

    (1) Space Experiments
    In addition to promoting JEM's development and operation, we will perform space experiments using drop towers, aircraft, small rockets, recoverable capsules, and the US Space Shuttle, choosing the facility according to the experiment's characteristics . We will also develop experimental equipment and technology, such as unmanned space experiment systems, to meet various demands for space utilization.

    (2) Research System
    With a view to ensuring wide use of results from future space projects, it is important that we enhance the research system so that researchers from universities, national research institutes, and the private sector can participate.

    In this sense, NASDA, universities, the national research laboratories, and the private sector will promote joint research projects. NASDA will make use of the personnel exchange program to play a leading role in this field.

    NASDA will also promote effective and wide use of the research system by strengthening the existing support system. At the same time, we will work to ensure safety of on-board equipment, construction of a database for research results, and establishment of an information network for research.

11. Manned Space Activities
12. Manned space missions have significant implications for exploring the possible expansion of human activities , acquiring new scientific knowledge and pursuing the effective use of space. It is, therefore, meaningful to promote manned space flight.

    (1) Manned Space Technology
    Experience and expertise in crew selection, training, and healthcare will be accumulated through JEM's development and operation, as well as the use of US Space Shuttle. The Technology for intravehicular activity, extravehicular activity, and manned space systems, including safety and reliability, will also be acquired.

    (2) Space Medical Science
    Research on the calcium depletion of human bone, and on the radiation effects of stays in space will be expanded.

    Moreover we will endeavor to study the closed ecosystem necessary for man to live in space, to acquire basic technology related to manned space activities, and to train personnel for the job.

13. Basic Satellites Technology
14. We have accumulated the basic technologies common to all satellites . We now feel it will be necessary to look forward and develop technology to cater for the growing sophistication and diversification of demand.

    (1) Mission Demonstration Satellites Series
    It is necessary to develop mission equipment, including earth observation sensors, with a view to familiarizing the public with the use of space. For the development of communications , broadcasting, and navigation, we must reduce technological risks by using operational satellites to verify technology.

    As a matter of fact, some mission equipment and space missions have been verified using the Engineering Test Satellites (ETS)series. This verification work will now involve developing a new series of the mission demonstration satellites. Implementing the new series will require cooperation between NASDA, the government agencies, universities, national research laboratories, and the private sector, including making satellite development cheaper and easier by adopting a common satellite bus . We are now also discussing the introduction of announcement of opportunities (AOs).

    (2) Engineering Test Satellites (ETS) Series
    We will emphasize further development and efficiently responce to more sophisticated and diversified needs in future satellites. With this in mind, we will use the ETS series to develop generic technologies, such as platform satellite technology and rendezvous-docking technology.

    By developing the ETS series, we will acquire basic satellite technologies such as on-board equipment miniaturization, Iight-weight materials, and power reduction and conservation. In addition, we will be able to improve the reliability of electronic and mechanical devices, as well as the performance of on-board software.

    (3) Satellite Bus Technology
    We have several different kinds of satellite bus in Japan. We will now reduce development risks and cost of the mission demonstration satellites and the earth observing satellites by adopting a common satellite bus . Furthermore, element devices for satellite buses will be standardized and designed for easy conversion into general use.

15. Space Infrastructure

Chapter 3 Institutional Structure of Space Development

It is important to co-ordinate Japan's space development and utilization activities with one body, and increasing their efficiency by devising a definite plan. In this context, NASDA and ISAS, Japan's space development and implementing agencies, will be consolidated. This move will enhance their technological ability, and their cooperative relations with other organizations, and improve the efficient development of space.

There is also a growing need to improve cooperation between space science and practical space application. Closer and more efficient relations between NASDA and ISAS, which play leading roles in their own fields, will be ensured in the fields of moon exploration, space environment utilization, and others.

(1)

The Space Activities Commission will be given more power to formulate important policies, to coordinate different policies presented by relevant government agencies, and to evaluate new or on-going space projects.
The administration of the government agencies will also be improved.

(2)

Research into satellites (including the space station) is performed by user agencies and NASDA, based upon requests from user agencies circumstances. NASDA is responsible for projects in the "development" phase. However, development of mission devices like observation sensors and element devices related to the satellite bus may be also performed by users, if the users wish to and have the necessary technological competence. NASDA will, not only upgrade its technological capacity to meet relevant agencies' requests, but also strengthen its institutional systems including the research system open to other institutes.

These development agencies will keep in mind the importance of ensuring healthy development of our satellite manufacturing industry. They will also make efforts to shorten the development period, reduce its cost, simplify project management methods, and diffuse results obtained by their development methods .

On the other hand, satellite development in space science will be performed in principle by ISAS since such development is closely related to space research activity. The development system in this field will be strengthened, to attain the most advanced scientific objectives.

(3)

The development of the satellite launch vehicle will be conducted by NASDA. NASDA will increase its technological abilities and improve its ability to meet other agencies' requests.

ISAS will continue to develop the M-V launch vehicle, one of the M series launch vehicles , while paying due attention to the suitability of the launch site at its Kagoshima Space Center, and to its ability to develop all stages of a solid fuel rocket.

Since it is appropriate to make use of NASDA's rockets for space science missions, large science missions beyond the capacity of the M-V rocket apart from international missions will be launched by NASDA's rockets. NASDA's rockets are the most valuable space transportation systems in Japan.

(4)

NASDA and the user agencies, jointly or individually, will expand the use of Earth observation systems and Earth sciences, and upgrade their applications.

Universities, national laboratories, and private bodies will take a broader approach to the use of space. At the same time, NASDA will take either tackle the field jointly with those institutes, or on its own. With a view to ensuring more efficient and wider use of JEM, NASDA will also reinforce its supporting systems to meet researchers' needs .

(5)

NASDA will provide tracking services to determine satellite orbits. When users have tracking and control facilities for their satellites or deep space probes, it is important to ensure those facilities keep in close contact with NASDA's facilities. Better communication systems centering on NASDA will be established for this kind of tracking activity.

Orbital satellite control services will be performed by the satellite operator. However, if the operator has no proper means to control the satellite, the tracking and control services will be provided by NASDA.

(6)

The national laboratories and research institutes working on space development will promote their research on satellites, rockets, and so on, as well as related development and application technologies. Simultaneously, these institutes will cooperate with the development efforts of NASDA, and will refurbish their facilities for this purpose. Special research programs of these institutes will be strengthened.

(7)

Universities (including ISAS) will be expected to conduct research using satellites, rockets and so on, and to cooperate with NASDA's development work.

(8)

In light of the growing important role of the private sector for space development, R & D facilities and research personnel in the private sector are to upgrade their technological capacity and to take part in government projects. In particular, space manufacturers and users will be expected to enhance their technological base, with a view to future commercial launch services, improved satellite development and manufacturing, and effective use of space.

Chapter 4 Promotion of International Cooperation

In space development we will be expected:

• to develop our indigenous technology,
• to contribute to technological improvements worldwide,
• to utilize the results of space activities for the promotion of space development internationally, and
• to take the initiative in promoting international cooperation.

When we engage in such cooperation, we must ensure mutual benefits and reciprocity by taking full account of our national condition as well as that of cooperating partners . It is also essential to clearly define the purposes and objectives of the cooperation, and to conduct it in a well-organized manner. To those ends , we will implement the following measures:

(1)

International cooperation in the field of information exchange, personnel exchange, and collaborating projects will be facilitated. We will introduce the necessary institutional arrangements for cooperation.

(2)

Efforts will be made to set up forums for discussion and consultation over a cooperative project at an early stage. The forums will be attended by participating countries to form a common understanding of the project.

(3)

There are many items suitable for international cooperation in the fields of Earth observation, Earth science, the use of space and space science. They are, for example, joint observation systems, installation of observing devices on partner's satellites or space probes, sharing experimental apparatus, joint study and sharing of observation data, and formulation of an information network. These activities will be steadily promoted.

(4)

To implement space activities on a world-wide scale, we should develop and manage a large-scale space infrastructure through different forms of international cooperation. We will, therefore, facilitate such cooperation by selecting the most suitable cooperative approaches to establish individual elements of space infrastructure.

(5)

Keeping in mind requests from the Asia-Pacific region in the fields of Earth observation, communication, broadcasting, and space environment utilization, we, as a part ot the region, will expand our cooperative activities through various means, such as the provision of research and verification opportunities in space, joint projects, cooperative research, personnel exchange, and technology transfer.

(6)

We will actively participate in and support international activities conducted by the U.N., Intelsat, Inmarsat, and other international organizations.

Chapter 5 Encouragement of Space Activities in Private Sector

5-I Enforcement of Space Activities in Private Sector

To familiarize the public with space activities and integrate them into daily life, the private sector must conduct more vigorous activities. In addition, to help implement the national space projects, the space manufacturing industry must consolidate.

Our space industry will be expected to improve its technology and expand its business activities. To improve the private sector's space activities, the Japanese government will take the following measures:

(1)

Strengthen technology by urging the private sector to join government projects and stimulate cooperative research between public and the private sectors.

(2)

Provide the private sector more opportunities for technology verification and experiments in space.

(3)

Transfer technical information held by the government and NASDA to the private sector.

(4)

Encourage the private sector to use the government's and NASDA's test facilities.

(5)

Stimulate the private sector's technical development and facility investment through monetary and tax measures.

(6)

Improve the standardization of parts and components for use in space.

(7)

Exchange personnel between NASDA and the private sector.

(8)

Prepare an environment for commercial launch services and export of space related parts and equipment.

5- 2 Encouraging the use of Space in the Private Sector

The private sector's use of space will expand as social and public needs increase, due to reduced costs and increased reliability of space. The expansion in use will also contribute both to creating new industries, and expanding the space manufacturing industry through increased demand for space equipment.

For the purpose of encouraging the use of space in the private sector, the following measures will be taken to:

(1) Introduction of proper monetary and tax measures.

(2) By paying attention to our participation in the use of space at reasonable cost.

Chapter 6 Preparation for Promotion of Space Activities

6- I Public Understanding

It is the responsibility of those who take charge of space development to gain public understanding and support for space activities. In that context, public relations activities informing persons in every walk of life, particularly young people, about the significance of space development and its expected results are indispensable. Those activities will also provide people with an opportunity to see the development of space through various media, exhibitions, and meetings.
It is, therefore, important to reinforce our public relations activities by taking the following measures:

(1)

Provide information on space development widely through TV, newspapers, magazines, and the Internet.

(2)

Support science museums across the nation, and other aero-space related centers by providing space exhibits, video films, pictures, and other material and by sending experts.

(3)

Send more scientists and experts to symposiums, workshops, and other gatherings on space public relations.

(4)

Use " Space Day " and other events to conduct various space-related activities for school children, open space agency facilities to the public, and conduct public experiments.

(5)

Further strengthen cooperative PR activity between the public and the private sectors, and between Japan and other countries.

6- 2 Manpower Training

Future space development will require more and better trained pesonnel in the space field. For this reason, special measures will be introduced to find and train the researchers and engineers who will be the main promoters of space development, and young people who will be responsible for this field in the future. These include:

(1)

Placing more emphasis on the under graduate and post graduate educational systems, to improve research and engineering staff training.

Following the expected expansion of space activities in the 2lst century, efforts will be made to train researchers and engineers, not only in space science, astronomy, earth science, space medicine, but also in material science and life science using the space environment. Moreover, additional efforts will be made to train personnel in the fields of humanities and the social sciences, such as space law and space psychology.

(2)

Improve training for researchers and engineers in space development agencies.

(3)

Improve training and foreign study systems in relevant agencies, including personnel exchange programs with other research institutes and foreign countries.

(4)

Expand support for programs run for junior researchers, including university students. Such programs include summer seminars, space experiments using the space station, meeting with foreign researchers, and the use of laboratory facilities. There is another program, the satellite design contest, which publicly invites good design ideas. The possibility of using the winner's idea will be considered.

(5)

Young people's interest in space development is increasing, because they will be responsible for it in the next generation. Schools and other educational institutes are therefore expected to allow more time for space activities, including explanations of the significance of the development of space.

More opportunities will be provided for young people to have on-site experience in space activities, such as participating in space camps and other space related social events. These opportunities will create incentives for them to join future space activities. Additional efforts will also be made to foster their instructors by providing training opportunities.

(6)

To expand our cooperation with countries in the Asia-Pacific regions, we will accept researchers and engineers from the region in our space development agencies, through exchange programs .

6- 3 Facilitation of Information Flow

Since space activities are connected with a number of scientific and technological disciplines and are subject to a rapid change, it is important to ensure the efficient use of research results, technical information, and observational data. To achieve that aim, an effort will be made to restructure the information flow system, such as relevant data bases and information networks . Moreover, we will also encourage the connection of our networks with foreign information networks, to provide domestic and foreign data on Earth observation and on space environment utilization to users. We will also ensure more effective distribution of development results over those networks.

6- 4 Indirect Measures of Space Development

(1)

It is important to secure launch options to satisfy the likely increase in launch demands. Therefore, we will endeavor to obtain the full understanding of all persons concerned, and introduce proper measures.

(2)

As we receive cooperative support in the form of satellite tracking and control services from the U.S. and other countries, we will continue this kind of international cooperation.

6-5 Securing Financial Resources

In order to implement the items proposed in the Fundamental Policy of Japan's Space Activities, we will try to share the financial burden with the private sector. Specifically, we will try to secure a steady increase in the national budget, and make use of other resources, including private ones.

6-6 Orderly Space Activities

(1)

For proper implementation of space activities at the international level, we will promote further advances in international areas like space treaties.

(2)

Taking into consideration our responsibilities as a result of changes in the international situation, we will take appropriate measures to secure safe maintenance and to prevent intervention.

(3)

In implementing our space activities, we must pay due attention to risk management. Space insurance is a useful means to this end. We will use such insurance appropriately, according to the characteristics of each satellite.

 

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