Interview

Our Pride is a Supportive Team That Learns Together.Together, we develop services that transform society.

Tadanori Fukushima

Representative Director and CEO

Special
Message

We invite enthusiastic teammates to join us in shaping a new future together.

Mr. Fukushima has dedicated approximately 14 years at SKY Perfect JSAT to satellite operations, constructing satellite control systems, managing orbital control, and conducting space object collision avoidance operations. In 2018, he launched a project within SKY Perfect JSAT’s startup program, collaborating with institutions like the National Institutes of Natural Sciences and RIKEN to tackle the space debris challenge using laser technology. In January 2024, he founded Orbital Lasers Co., Ltd. focusing on "space and lasers." The company has also initiated its Satellite LiDAR business, delivering high-precision surface data, and is collaborating with various experts across different fields to create new societal value.

Q1. Reflections on Establishing Orbital Lasers

Focusing on a future beyond technology and fully embracing my mission is what fuels great energy within the organization.

The environment and atmosphere at Orbital Lasers are vastly different from my time in the space business at SKY Perfect JSAT. The most significant change is the "passion" and "commitment" of our team. Members of Orbital Lasers don’t view "space lasers" as just a technology; they are dedicated to realizing the positive impact this innovation can have on society. This shared vision propels us forward with determination, regardless of the challenges we face. Our team consists of individuals who genuinely enjoy the mission they have been entrusted with, generating energy throughout the organization.

Personally, I find great fulfillment in my daily work to the extent that the line between "work" and "life" has blurred. The greatest joy for me is nurturing this business alongside such remarkable team members.

Q2. Progress of the Two Projects

The development of space debris removal technology is entering a critical phase, positioning it as a key component of the new era of space exploration, now on the verge of practical application.

In our space debris removal project, we are addressing the growing global issue of space debris with an innovative approach: "remotely tracking debris movement and using lasers to apply force and manipulate its trajectory." By the end of fiscal year 2024, we aim to complete all technological components, including lasers, power supplies, light-transmitting telescopes, control computers, and algorithms/software. Starting in fiscal year 2025, we will focus on redesigning the system to ensure it can withstand the harsh conditions of space and enhance its compactness by integrating these elements. Once we achieve this, we will be close to launching the product.

In our Satellite LiDAR project, we are working to significantly reduce costs for applications that have traditionally demanded large budgets in the field of satellite technology. Both projects operate in uncharted territories, and if successful, they will lead to substantial innovation in society.

Q3. What Makes the Satellite LiDAR Project Unique?

Satellite LiDAR has the potential to evaluate carbon credits, with its applications expanding through collaborations with various organizations.

Earth observation using Satellite LiDAR is garnering significant attention from governments, public agencies, and investors. Its uniqueness lies in the ability to directly obtain precise height data, which was challenging with traditional methods. For instance, by measuring tree heights and assessing their annual growth, we can estimate carbon dioxide absorption and utilize this data to evaluate carbon credits. Additionally, enhanced precision in 3D models opens new opportunities for land management, disaster prevention and mitigation, urban development, and infrastructure monitoring worldwide. Moreover, through partnerships with various companies and institutions, we may uncover entirely new applications that we have yet to envision. I am excited about the possibilities that lie ahead.

Q4. What Is Orbital Lasers' Strength?

Our strength lies in our culture of open consultation and collaboration. When facing challenges, our team is motivated to tackle problems together.

In essence, our greatest asset is our members. We have cultivated a team where everyone is encouraged to fully showcase their expertise. As we navigate uncharted territories, there are often situations where no one has the answer, including myself as the CEO and even our most experienced team members. It's natural to encounter failures or make mistakes. Therefore, when uncertainty arises, we don’t hesitate to seek each other's input with questions like, "What do you think about this?" or "I’d love to hear your opinion." This collaborative spirit of problem-solving is deeply embedded in the culture at Orbital Lasers.

Q5. What Core Values Does Orbital Lasers Aim to Uphold in the Future?

At Orbital Lasers, we avoid relying solely on any one individual. Our strength as a team lies in our ability to learn and grow together.

There are no experts who excel in both "space" and "lasers." Therefore, depending on a single person poses a significant risk to the organization. While each member takes pride in their area of expertise, it's vital that we foster a culture of continuous learning that transcends our individual domains. By learning from one another, we strengthen our entire team and facilitate growth. This supportive atmosphere of collaboration and mutual learning is at the heart of Orbital Lasers, and I believe it is a fundamental value that we must continue to uphold and cherish as we move forward.