Tokyo, Japan — July 16 ,2025
ASTRO GATE Inc.(Headquarters: Tokyo; President and Founder: Daisuke Ode), a Japan-based spaceport development and operations company, jointly conducts a study on the approaches to standardization and regulation of space transportation technology commissioned by the Cabinet Office, entrusted to The Japan Research Institute, Limited.(Headquarters: Tokyo; Representative Director, President and CEO: Jun Uchikawa) ,in collaboration with The Japan Research Institute, Limited and PACIFIC CONSULTANTS CO., LTD. (Headquarters: Tokyo; President: Osamu Omoto).
This study will examine the direction of efforts toward the standardization of technologies and services related to launch vehicles such as rockets and rocket launch sites (spaceports), with the aim of strengthening Japan’s international competitiveness in the field of space transportation.
■ Purpose and Scope of the Study
As the use of outer space increases worldwide, technological innovation in space transportation services is rapidly advancing. In Japan, the government has also expressed its intention to promote the research and development of next-generation space transportation technologies, leverage overseas technologies, and establish the necessary systems and environments to realize new space transportation businesses, as outlined in the Basic Plan on Space Policy (approved by the Cabinet on June 13, 2023).
As international harmonization of rocket launch regulations, led by the United States, continues to advance, it is essential for Japan to examine the framework of domestic standards, norms, and regulations related to space transportation technologies and services in order to enhance its international competitiveness in the space transportation sector.
In this study, we will identify the needs and challenges related to the standardization of technologies and services in Japan’s space transportation sector. Based on this analysis, and taking into account international trends in space transportation regulations, we will examine specific themes that Japan should address.
To promote momentum for standardization efforts within the domestic space transportation field and to define effective directions for future standards and regulations, a steering committee comprising experts from industry, academia, and other relevant institutions will be established. Through this public-private-academic collaboration, the study will advance concrete initiatives.
Furthermore, to ensure continuous progress, the study will also develop an action plan and organizational framework for activities in the following fiscal years.
ASTRO GATE is engaged in the planning and operation of spaceports around the world in collaboration with numerous domestic and international space transportation operators. The present study, which explores the standardization of space transportation technologies, is regarded as a key initiative for ASTRO GATE, a project that manages multiple spaceports.
Through this study, ASTRO GATE aims to enhance the safety and reliability of space transportation technologies, ensure interoperability, and promote collaboration among operators as well as the globalization of space transportation businesses. In doing so, the company seeks to contribute to strengthening Japan’s international competitiveness in the space transportation sector.
Comments from Daisuke Ode, President and Founder of ASTRO GATE Inc.
We are honored to be involved in this important research project on Japan’s space transportation, commissioned by the Cabinet Office..
Our company has been engaged in the planning and operation of spaceports in collaboration with governments and local governments around the world, while also fostering technical exchanges with rocket companies globally in preparation for launches. By leveraging this expertise and international network—along with the valuable experience and insights of our partners, The Japan Research Institute, Limited and PACIFIC CONSULTANTS CO., LTD—we are committed to contributing to the rational standardization of space transportation in Japan.
About ASTRO GATE Inc.
ASTRO GATE Inc. is a Japanese company dedicated to pioneering the future of space transportation through the planning, development, and operation of spaceports around the world. Working in close collaboration with national governments and private partners, the company provides end-to-end support for the establishment and operation of spaceports, while actively promoting orbital launches from various regions across the globe.
