Among recent projects, Global Observing SATellite for Greenhouse gases and Water cycle "IBUKI GW" (GOSAT-GW), was successfully launched aboard the 50th H-IIA Launch Vehicle (H-IIA F50), the final of the series, on June 29. Since its first test flight in 2001, the H-IIA launch vehicle series has launched numerous satellites and space probes, demonstrating Japan’s presence in the field of space transportation both at home and abroad. This achievement has been made possible entirely thanks to the support of the local community and the dedicated efforts of everyone involved in their development and operation. We are once again reminded of the importance of continuously refining our technology and expertise, and of passing them on to future generations.
IBUKI GW completed its critical operations phase on July 1 and has entered the initial functional verification operation phase, which will last for approximately three months. With the support of the companies involved in the satellite’s development and operation, JAXA remains committed to ensuring its steady operation through the concerted efforts of all project members.

As part of its ongoing collaboration with domestic research institutions, JAXA signed the Agreement on Collaboration and Cooperation in R&D and Industrial Development in Quantum and Aerospace Fields on June 30, with the Global Research and Development Center for Business by Quantum-AI technology (G-QuAT) of the National Institute of Advanced Industrial Science and Technology (AIST).
JAXA’s supercomputers are used for a wide range of purposes, including behavioral simulations of aircraft and rocket engines, Computational Fluid Dynamics (CFD) research, and Earth observation data processing. Under this agreement, JAXA and G‑QuAT will begin reviewing and discussing improvements to such numerical analysis technologies and potential applications of quantum computing technologies in future aerospace domains. By leveraging the resources of both organizations, such as the expertise in quantum technologies provided by AIST, we aim to promote research and development as well as foster human resource development in the quantum and aerospace fields, while contributing to the advancement of Japan’s industry.

Next, we turn to JAXA Astronauts ONISHI Takuya and YUI Kimiya.

It has been agreed among relevant international organizations that the Crew Dragon Spacecraft for Crew-11, with JAXA Astronaut YUI Kimiya aboard, is scheduled to launch at 1:09 a.m. on August 1 (JST), and that the Crew-10 spacecraft, carrying JAXA Astronaut ONISHI Takuya, is targeted to return on or after August 5 (JST). Preparations are underway to meet these target dates. This arrangement is expected to allow both Japanese astronauts to be onboard the ISS concurrently during the handover period.

In preparation for his second spaceflight, Astronaut Yui is currently undergoing the final phase of pre-launch training at NASA, with all activities proceeding as planned.
During his upcoming ISS mission, Astronaut Yui will also leverage the experimental technologies developed through the use of the Japanese Experiment Module, Kibo. By fully utilizing its unique environment, he will engage in various initiatives, including the JEM Demonstration of Removing Carbon-dioxide System (DRCS) for future crewed space exploration, and the demonstration of precise robotic operations under microgravity conditions to enable automated and autonomous space utilization and experimentation in anticipation of the post-ISS era.

Through the consecutive ISS expedition missions of Astronauts Onishi and Yui, JAXA will continue to promote the generation of scientific achievements, development of human spaceflight technologies, and expansion of space utilization by the private sector. We would greatly appreciate your continued support.