Presentation Information
[U16-P10]Capacity Development of Space Professionals Supporting the Earth Satellite Observation Infrastructure:
The Space Innovative Human Resource Development Program at Kyushu University
*Nawo Eguchi1, Shinji Hatta2,3, Tsuyoshi Yoshitake4, Hiroshi Naragino4, Atsushi Mase5, Shuji Abe6, Taizo Kobayashi7, Keisuke Abe8, Toshiya Hanada9, Kazuhiro Yamamoto10,11 (1.Research Institute for Applied Mechanics, Kyushu University, 2.MUSCAT Space Engineering, 3.Hatta Yamamoto Propulsion Engineering & Research Co.,Ltd, 4.Interdisciplinary Graduate School of Engineering Sciences, Kyushu University, 5.Masehira Co., Ltd., 6.International Center for Space and Planetary Environmental Science, Kyushu University, 7.AcsiomA Ltd. , 8.Academic Research and Industrial Collaboration Management Office, Kyushu University, 9.Faculty of Engineering, Kyushu University, 10.Faculty of Science, Kyushu University, 11.Quantum and Spacetime Research Institute, Kyushu University)
Keywords:
Earth Satellite Observation,Human Resource Development,Space Professionals,Observation Infrastructure
A shortage of science and engineering professionals has become a critical challenge for the sustainable advancement of space development and Earth satellite observation in Japan. In particular, the promotion of satellite missions essential for understanding global environmental change and monitoring extreme events requires highly skilled personnel capable of integrating multidisciplinary expertise. Such expertise includes hardware technologies such as instrument development and satellite bus design, regulatory and operational knowledge related to ground station management and frequency coordination within international frameworks, and information system technologies responsible for data acquisition, processing, and utilization. The cultivation of these integrated professionals—referred to as “space professionals”—is indispensable.
Kyushu University has been developing an educational framework aimed at strengthening the next-generation infrastructure supporting satellite systems, including Earth observation platforms. By organically linking advanced technology development projects with structured educational programs, the initiative provides students and industry-oriented trainees with an environment where theoretical knowledge and practical experience are systematically integrated. The program seeks to foster professionals who can comprehensively understand the planning, development, and operation of satellite observation systems contributing not only to Earth and environmental sciences but also to Space Situational Awareness (SSA), including debris monitoring and space environment surveillance.
As a core component of this effort, undergraduate students are offered interdisciplinary learning opportunities covering fundamental satellite engineering, sensor development, system integration, regulatory compliance, and the scientific and societal significance of Earth observation missions. From the perspective of capacity building for the future of Earth satellite observation and SSA, this presentation introduces the program’s design philosophy, educational structure, implementation framework, and its emerging educational and societal impacts.
Kyushu University has been developing an educational framework aimed at strengthening the next-generation infrastructure supporting satellite systems, including Earth observation platforms. By organically linking advanced technology development projects with structured educational programs, the initiative provides students and industry-oriented trainees with an environment where theoretical knowledge and practical experience are systematically integrated. The program seeks to foster professionals who can comprehensively understand the planning, development, and operation of satellite observation systems contributing not only to Earth and environmental sciences but also to Space Situational Awareness (SSA), including debris monitoring and space environment surveillance.
As a core component of this effort, undergraduate students are offered interdisciplinary learning opportunities covering fundamental satellite engineering, sensor development, system integration, regulatory compliance, and the scientific and societal significance of Earth observation missions. From the perspective of capacity building for the future of Earth satellite observation and SSA, this presentation introduces the program’s design philosophy, educational structure, implementation framework, and its emerging educational and societal impacts.