Mitsubishi Electric, a Japanese electronics and electrical equipment manufacturer, has signed a memorandum of understanding (MoU) with Japanese telecommunications company, Nippon Telegraph and Telephone Corporation (NTT), NTT DOCOMO BUSINESS, MUFG Bank and the Development Bank of Japan to explore the development and commercial operation of a large-scale satellite constellation.
The agreement covers a coordinated network of satellites designed to support communications, Earth observation, positioning, navigation and timing (PNT), and space-based data centers. According to a press release, the five companies will assess the technical and commercial feasibility of the proposed system, including the infrastructure needed to connect satellites, ground stations, communications networks and operating systems. They will also examine potential services for customers in Japan and overseas, as well as the business framework needed to develop and operate the network.
“In recent years, space development initiatives by both the public and private sectors have accelerated worldwide, driven by technological advances such as the miniaturization and enhanced capabilities of satellites, as well as increased launch frequency. In particular, satellite constellations, in which multiple satellites operate in coordination, are increasingly being utilized as social infrastructure in a wide range of fields, including communications, Earth observation, positioning, disaster prevention and mitigation, and national security. Against this backdrop, further efforts are needed to expand the use of space,” the companies said, explaining the rationale for the move.
Mitsubishi Electric will focus on the constellation’s overall system architecture and integration, drawing on its experience in satellite manufacturing, ground facilities and defense and space systems. The company will also study the use of its Digital Space Interface (DSI), an open interface standard under development with other space companies. DSI is intended to support the installation and updating of large software packages on satellites in orbit, allowing operators to modify services more efficiently.
Potential applications include communications during natural disasters and in areas with limited network coverage, satellite-based positioning services and improved processing of Earth observation data through space-based data centers. The companies will also identify technical requirements and challenges associated with building and operating the proposed infrastructure.
The agreement comes as governments and private companies expand satellite networks, supported by advances in satellite technology and more frequent launches. The five partners aim to develop an open and interoperable system, but have not announced a deployment schedule, investment commitments or a timeline for commercial operations.