Finalized a sponsored research agreement on space technology with Kyushu Institute of Technology
Press release
Jun. 5, 2025
ASPINA Shinano Kenshi Co., Ltd. (President & CEO: Yukihiro Kaneko) has finalized a sponsored research agreement on space technology with Kyushu Institute of Technology (President: Yasunori Mitani), commonly referred to as Kyutech. Under this contract, ASPINA will provide research funds for demonstration experiments utilizing an open-source microsatellite to be developed by Kyutech and the ARW-3m reaction wheel developed, manufactured, and sold by ASPINA. Kyutech open-sources its satellite design and specifications to the public with the aim of making satellite development faster, cheaper, and easier for humanity to access outer space.
For 8 consecutive years, Kyutech ranked first in the world for the number of small satellites operated by universities and academic institutions. The university also supports the BIRDS project., a cross-border, interdisciplinary satellite project for non-space faring countries. ASPINA strongly empathizes with Kyutech’s initiative to expand accessibility to space and signed this contract with the aim of supporting the spread of development technology.
ASPINA will continue to contribute to the sustainable development of space around the world as a partner and expert in precision motion control.
Comments from Professor Mengu Cho, Principal Investigator, BIRDS project. at Kyutech Graduate School of Engineering
Small satellites, with their short development time and low development costs, offer space applications that conventional medium- and large-sized satellites cannot. They are a good entry point for emerging companies that have not been involved in space development. The advancement of small satellite technology will significantly change the use of space by humankind and will enable more people to enjoy the benefits of more diverse space applications.
For fast development, which is an advantage of small satellites, it is desirable to build the supply chain for each component in Japan. ASPINA's reaction wheel for CubeSat (microsatellite) was developed in Japan. Since it was manufactured in Japan, I wanted to use it.
About Kyushu Institute of Technology (Kyutech)
https://www.kyutech.ac.jp/english
Since Kyutech’s establishment of the Meiji College of Technology in 1909, the university has produced a large number of engineers based on the basic philosophy of cultivating "Educating and training a student to become a person of integrity with technological expertize" (not only skilled in technology but also a person of moral character). Approximately 5,700 students are studying at 3 campuses in Fukuoka Prefecture (2 faculties, 3 graduate schools). In recent years, Kyutech has achieved success in a wide range of fields, including space development—where it has been ranked 1st in the world for 8 consecutive years in the number of artificial satellites operated by educational institutions—and robotics, having won 6 world championships in autonomous robotics. (Text provided by General Affairs Division, Public Relations Section, Kyutech)
About ASPINA
ASPINA endeavors to enhance its visibility within related industries and among potential customers worldwide as part of its long-term growth strategy for global expansion. Driven by the mission of "giving shape to the concepts of hope and comfort of people around the world," ASPINA aims to realize new products and businesses through innovative ideas and solutions by collaborating with customers and leveraging our technologies.
Related Information
Laboratory of Lean Satellite Enterprises and In-Orbit Experiment | Kyushu Institute of Technology