1. Japan's Position in the Global Space Industry
1.1 The Global Space Industry Market and Japan’s Standing
In recent years, the global space industry has been experiencing rapid growth, with the market size reaching $469 billion (approximately ¥64 trillion) as of 2021.*1 Both public and private sector players are increasingly entering the industry, and this expansion trend is expected to continue. Projections indicate that by the 2030s, the annual market size could reach $1 trillion (approximately ¥100 trillion), highlighting space as a key growth sector for the next generation.*2
Meanwhile, the market size of Japan’s space industry was estimated at approximately ¥1.2 trillion as of 2022, accounting for a relatively small share of the global market.*3 However, Japan’s space industry boasts unique strengths and advanced technological capabilities, earning high international recognition. The Japanese government has set ambitious goals under initiatives such as the "Space Industry Vision 2030" and the Basic Plan on Space Policy, aiming to double the market size to approximately ¥2.4 trillion by the early 2030s. This objective underscores Japan’s strong commitment to expanding the space sector as a key driver of economic growth over the next decade.
This article aims to provide students at top global universities with an overview of Japan’s space industry and its attractiveness, with comparisons to major players such as the United States, Europe, and China.
1.2 Comparison with Major Countries
1.2.1 United States
The United States dominates the global space industry, accounting for approximately 40% of the market.*4 NASA plays a leading role, while private companies such as SpaceX, Blue Origin, and Lockheed Martin drive space development, particularly in the commercial sector. SpaceX, in particular, has revolutionized the industry by developing reusable rocket technology, significantly reducing launch costs. This innovation has had a profound impact on the global space sector, further solidifying the U.S.'s dominant position.
1.2.2 Europe
Europe, led by the European Space Agency (ESA), has fostered multinational collaboration in space development.*5 The region excels in satellite communications, Earth observation, and space exploration, with notable achievements such as the Galileo satellite navigation system and the Ariane rocket series. Additionally, Europe is committed to sustainable space development, actively addressing environmental concerns by working to reduce space debris and lower the environmental impact of space activities.
1.2.3 China
China has been making significant investments in state-led space initiatives, rapidly advancing its space development programs. Landmark achievements include the Chang’e lunar exploration program, the Tianwen Mars mission, and the Tiangong space station. In 2022, China accounted for approximately 60 out of the 178 rocket launches recorded globally, further cementing its growing presence in the space industry.*5
1.3 Strengths and Challenges of Japan’s Space Industry
1.3.1 Strengths
Japan’s space industry is distinguished by its advanced technological capabilities and reliability. Although it lacks the financial and human resources of the major space powers, Japan is often recognized—alongside Europe—for its strong overall capabilities.*5 The country has demonstrated its ability to develop cutting-edge technologies even with limited budgets.
Japan excels in precision satellite technology and space exploration. The Hayabusa asteroid probe series, which achieved the world's first successful asteroid sample return mission, showcased Japan’s technological prowess on the global stage. Furthermore, Japan has been a pioneer in the field of small satellites, successfully launching the world’s first CubeSat in 2003.*6
Geographical advantages also play a crucial role in Japan’s space industry. The country’s eastward-facing Pacific coastline provides an ideal environment for rocket launches. Facilities such as the Tanegashima Space Center enable launches with minimal risk of falling debris, ensuring both safety and efficiency. This strategic advantage enhances Japan’s competitiveness in the space sector.
1.3.2 Challenges
The biggest challenge facing Japan’s space industry is its heavy reliance on government contracts. Currently, approximately 90% of the market depends on orders from government agencies such as JAXA, unlike the United States, where private-sector initiatives and venture capital investment are thriving.
Recognizing this issue, the Japanese government has introduced several measures to promote private-sector participation and expand international market opportunities. The enactment of the Basic Space Law in 2008 and the formulation of the Space Industry Vision 2030 in 2017 reflect efforts to foster a more dynamic and diverse space sector.*6 If these initiatives succeed, Japan’s space industry is expected to grow further, with increased participation from a wider range of industry players.
2. International Career Paths in Japan’s Space Industry
Japan’s space industry is built on a foundation of international collaboration, offering numerous career opportunities for students from overseas. The following sections outline key pathways for international professionals.
2.1 Opportunities derived from frameworks of international cooperation
The Japan Aerospace Exploration Agency (JAXA) has established long-standing collaborative relationships with NASA and ESA. A prime example is Japan’s participation in the International Space Station (ISS) program, where it has played a key role in operating the Kibo laboratory module and launching the HTV cargo spacecraft.
More recently, Japan has formally joined NASA’s Artemis program for lunar exploration, committing to providing the HTV-X cargo spacecraft for the Gateway lunar outpost. Future Artemis missions also anticipate the participation of Japanese astronauts, marking a historic milestone as the first Japanese crewed mission beyond low Earth orbit.
Japan’s cooperation with Europe is also expanding. The BepiColombo Mercury probe, developed jointly by JAXA and ESA, exemplifies the deepening partnership between the two regions. Participation in such international projects provides Japanese engineers and researchers with regular collaboration opportunities with overseas space agencies and corporations. These experiences not only broaden their global perspectives but also help build strong networks within the international space community.
2.2 Opportunities for Participation in International Projects
Working in Japan’s space industry provides young professionals with the opportunity to be at the forefront of international projects from an early stage in their careers. For example, in projects related to the International Space Station (ISS), engineers collaborate with counterparts from NASA and the European Space Agency (ESA) on system development, as well as participate in operational coordination meetings with controllers from various countries.
In the field of satellite development, there is an increasing number of cases where satellites are manufactured for overseas clients, allowing professionals to engage directly with customers from Europe and Asia while advancing projects. Furthermore, within startup companies, there is growing participation in international space business competitions and active collaboration with foreign ventures to expand services.
Through such activities, professionals develop skills in collaborating with experts from diverse national backgrounds, using "space" as a common language. Additionally, there are opportunities to participate in international conferences and workshops hosted by Japan—such as the Asia-Pacific Regional Space Agency Forum (APRSAF), which is held annually—where individuals can present their research findings. Those who have honed their language and presentation skills at world-class universities can leverage these abilities to establish a strong presence on the global stage.
2.3 From Experience in Japan to a Global Career
The experience gained in Japan’s space industry serves as a valuable asset for pursuing a global career. The technical expertise developed through Japan Aerospace Exploration Agency (JAXA) missions is highly regarded internationally, leading to cases where professionals transition to companies in Europe and the United States. Additionally, some individuals leverage the connections built in Japan to join overseas space ventures as founding members.
Certain Japanese companies actively encourage employees to study abroad or participate in training programs at foreign space agencies. Opportunities include obtaining a PhD from an overseas university while remaining employed or serving as a visiting researcher at NASA. In fact, many engineers and researchers who have accumulated experience in Japan have successfully secured positions at NASA and ESA.
Even after returning to their home countries, professionals can continue to engage with Japan through joint projects, allowing them to play key roles in international cooperative missions. As space development inherently relies on global collaboration, the career and network established in Japan can become a significant advantage in building a global career.
3. The Space Industry Job Market and Required Skills
3.1 Global Job Market in the Space Industry
The job market in the space industry varies significantly depending on the country or region.
In the United States, demand for space-related professionals exceeds supply, leading to a severe labor shortage.*7 In particular, securing aerospace engineers and data scientists has become an urgent challenge. Companies such as SpaceX and Amazon's Project Kuiper are aggressively recruiting talent from traditional aerospace firms, intensifying competition for skilled professionals across the space industry. However, shifts in U.S. space policy, such as NASA budget cuts under the Trump administration, could significantly impact future employment prospects.*8
In Europe, the job market in the space industry is becoming increasingly dynamic due to the rise of startups. There has been a growing number of job openings resulting from collaborations between the European Space Agency (ESA) and private companies, with an expansion in projects utilizing space data analysis and artificial intelligence.*9
Meanwhile, China’s space industry primarily relies on domestic talent, limiting opportunities for foreign professionals. However, in specific technical fields, there are initiatives to actively recruit foreign experts.
3.2 Job Opportunities in Japan’s Space Industry
Japan’s space industry offers a wide range of job opportunities, spanning from major corporations to startups. Below are some key companies and their recruitment information.
3.2.1 Enterprises
Mitsubishi Heavy Industries (MHI): As a leader in aerospace engineering and manufacturing, MHI is involved in rocket development and offers multiple positions in the aerospace sector.*10
Example Roles: Rocket engine development, propulsion system engineers, system design engineers.
NEC Corporation: NEC focuses on the development of satellites and space-related systems. The company is hiring for production engineering roles in satellite and rocket development, requiring expertise in mechanical and materials engineering.*10
Example Roles: Satellite systems engineer, data analyst, embedded software developer.
3.2.2 Startups
ispace: A space startup dedicated to lunar water resource development. The company plans to conduct a private lunar exploration mission in February 2025, aiming to lay the foundation for future human activity on the Moon.*11
Example Roles: Rover control software development, navigation system design, space mission planning.
Interstellar Technologies (IST): A company promoting private-sector space development and specializing in small rocket manufacturing. In January 2025, it secured approximately 7 billion yen in investment from Toyota’s research division, Woven by Toyota, to establish a mass production system.*12
Example Roles: Rocket propulsion engineer, structural designer, electronic equipment developer.
ArkEdge Space: A startup focused on the development of ultra-small satellites. The company provides solutions for global challenges and is gaining attention within the space business industry.*13
Example Roles: Satellite systems engineer, software developer.
3.3 Skills Required in the Space Industry
With the rapid expansion of the space industry, there is growing demand for talent across various roles. Below is an overview of the key skills required in major technical professions.
3.3.1 Engineering Roles
Hardware Engineers: Responsible for the structural and thermal design of rockets and satellites. Expertise in mechanical and materials engineering is essential, and experience in consumer electronics or the automotive industry can also be beneficial. Since RF (radio frequency) technology is critical for satellite communications, knowledge of wireless technology is highly valuable.*14
Software Engineers: Develop software for spacecraft navigation, control, and communication systems. In addition to programming skills, knowledge of systems engineering and cybersecurity is required. With the increasing volume of satellite data, there is also a growing demand for machine learning engineers and data scientists.
Quality Assurance Specialists: Given that space equipment is difficult to repair once launched, quality assurance plays a crucial role. These professionals are involved in quality control from the design phase and leverage expertise in mechanical and materials engineering to ensure reliability.*15
3.3.2 Business Roles
Project Manager: Responsible for planning, progress management, and risk management to ensure the smooth execution of space development projects. In addition to technical knowledge, strong coordination skills and leadership abilities are required to effectively manage teams.
Sales and Planning Roles: Involved in market development and the formulation of sales strategies for space-related products and services. A deep understanding of the space industry’s characteristics, along with proposal skills and marketing expertise tailored to client needs, is essential.
3.3.3 Research Roles
Researcher: Engages in the pursuit of new knowledge in fields such as astrophysics, astronomy, and planetary science. A Ph.D.-level specialization and research experience are required, along with the ability to stay updated on the latest research trends through international collaborations and academic publications.
3.3.4 Japan-Specific Skills Requirements
Proficiency in Japanese Technical Documentation: Even for international projects, many contracts and technical specifications are written in Japanese. Therefore, the ability to comprehend and handle technical documents in both English and Japanese is crucial.
Experience in Government-Related Projects: As collaboration with JAXA and defense-related institutions is common, knowledge of government project management and contract procedures is important.
Strong Quality Management Skills: Japanese space equipment demands high reliability, necessitating adherence to strict quality standards.
Competence in International Collaboration: Given Japan’s frequent cooperation with Europe and the United States, skills in managing multinational projects are highly valued.
3.3.5. Commonly Required Skills
Regardless of whether one works in technical, business, or research roles, the following skills are highly regarded in the space industry:
English Proficiency: As international projects are common, the ability to communicate effectively in English is essential.
Project Management Skills: The ability to plan and execute complex projects while effectively leading teams is required.
Problem-Solving Abilities: Given the frequent encounters with unknown challenges, flexible thinking and creativity are crucial.
4. Conclusion
Japan’s space industry leverages its strengths in technology and international cooperation and is expected to continue growing. Although the market remains relatively small, government support is projected to drive expansion, with expectations of doubling its size by the 2030s. The promotion of private sector participation remains a key issue.
Compared to the global space industry, Japan has a strong reliance on government demand, and the development of private companies and startups has been relatively slow. However, Japan has received high global recognition for its asteroid exploration and microsatellite technologies. Future growth is expected through the expansion of markets utilizing these strengths.
The demand for skilled professionals in the space industry is increasing worldwide. In particular, technical roles require expertise in engineering, AI and data science, cybersecurity, and quality assurance. Additionally, there is a growing need for business professionals proficient in project management, space law, and international agreements. For international students, Japan’s space industry presents an attractive opportunity as a gateway to a global career.
Through participation in international projects, Japan continues to deepen its collaboration with overseas space agencies and companies, providing an environment where young professionals can engage in international work early in their careers. Japan actively collaborates with Western space agencies in multinational projects such as the ISS program, the Artemis program, and the Mercury exploration mission "BepiColombo."
A career in Japan can serve as an important step towards working on the global stage. Many professionals gain experience at JAXA or domestic companies before transitioning to the European or U.S. space industries, or leveraging their networks in Japan to collaborate with overseas space ventures. Furthermore, Japanese space companies are increasingly establishing overseas offices, expanding their global footprint, and becoming more proactive in hiring foreign talent.
For Japan’s space industry to achieve sustainable growth, the integration of highly skilled international professionals is essential. Opportunities for foreign talent are expanding, making Japan an increasingly attractive destination for those interested in the space sector. It is our hope that this article serves as a valuable resource for international students considering career opportunities in Japan’s space industry.
Sources and Notes
１.「勢い加速する日本の宇宙ビジネス」（世界経済フォーラム）：https://jp.weforum.org/stories/2023/06/i-suru-no-bijinesu/
２.「宇宙ビジネスで外国人を雇用する方法について｜技術人文知識国際業務｜就労ビザ」（就労ビザ東京ドットコム）：https://tokyo-visa35.com/question/post-2401/
３.「未来への一歩、スタートアップが切り開く宇宙産業の新たな地平」（KEPPLE）：https://kepple.co.jp/articles/jmj39lvuc7d
４.「State of the Satellite Industry Report」（SIA）：https://sia.org/news-resources/state-of-the-satellite-industry-report/
５.「国別宇宙技術力比較」（中国の科学技術）：https://china-science.com/space/comparison/
６.「宇宙ビジネスの現在地と今後｜市場規模や課題、日本の注目企業を紹介」（Note）：https://note.com/nec_iise/n/n2acc7e64147a
７.「米国におけるテック人材に関する動向」（JETRO）：https://www.jetro.go.jp/ext_images/_Reports/02/2018/8c9fff0ac94afd76/201807.pdf?utm_source=chatgpt.com
８.「NASA、1000人以上が解雇を免れるも先行きは不透明–トランプ政権で進む職員解雇」（Uchubiz）：https://uchubiz.com/article/new58308/
９.「siryou1-2.pdf」（経済産業省）：https://www.works-i.com/works/item/w128_toku1.pdf
１０.「宇宙ビジネス、140兆円市場に拡大へ。重工業メーカーも次世代人材を募集」（AMBI）：https://en-ambi.com/featured/1451/
１１.「Why 3 Private Space Missions Are on Their Way to the Moon Right Now」（Business Insider）：https://www.businessinsider.com/private-space-missions-flying-to-moon-2025-2?international=true&r=US&IR=T
１２.「Toyota backs Japanese space startup Interstellar to mass-produce rockets」（Reuters）：https://www.reuters.com/business/autos-transportation/toyotas-autonomous-driving-unit-invest-hokkaido-based-space-infrastructure-firm-2025-01-06/
１３.「【2024年版】宇宙ビジネス業界マップ ~宇宙産業の求人動向とキャリアガイド~」（35ish）：https://talisman-corporation.com/media/2024/10/08/spacetech-industrymap-careerguide/
１４.「宙畑」（宙畑）：https://sorabatake.jp/en/top/
１５.「Specialized in your field」（progressive）：https://www.progressiverecruitment.com/nl-nl/
(Editor: Jelper Club Editorial Team)
Commenti