Sky Perfect JSAT is linking up with ispace in a new MoU in the area of lunar exploration. The two companies will exchange technical information and conduct system compatibility studies with the aim of establishing communications between JSAT Space Line ground stations and ‘ULTRA’, ispace’s next-generation lunar lander planned for Mission 3, currently targeted for launch in 2028. The collaboration will also explore the feasibility of demonstration activities between the spacecraft and ground stations. The two companies announced the MoU, July 16.
ispace is seeking to expand its options for ground station services and mission support capabilities. ispace will explore the feasibility of leveraging JSAT Space Line’s ground station infrastructure to support communications for future lunar exploration missions. The study will also examine the potential use of the service as a backup to the European Space Operations Centre (ESOC) ground station network operated by the European Space Agency (ESA).
The two companies will evaluate the demand for and value of domestic ground station services for lunar exploration missions, while working to build a communications infrastructure that will support Japan’s future lunar exploration activities. This partnership looks to contribute to the development of next-generation deep space communications infrastructure.
“Our collaboration with Sky Perfect JSAT toward Mission 3 is significant not only in validating the technical effectiveness of Jsat Space Line, but also in expanding the potential use of commercial ground station infrastructure in Japan for lunar exploration missions. We will continue advancing this collaboration as an initiative that contributes not only to future lunar exploration activities but also to strengthening the foundation of Japan’s space industry,” ispace founder and CEO Takeshi Hakamade said in a statement.
