平子 敬一

Interview

Investing My Experience into Orbital Lasers for New Dreams and the Growth of Young Talent

Keichi Hirako

Technical Advisor

平子 敬一

After majoring in control engineering at both university and graduate school, I began my career at a major electronics manufacturer. There, I gained valuable experience in developing satellite control systems and engaging in various satellite-related projects, ultimately advancing to the role of project manager. Subsequently, I joined JAXA, where I contributed to the development of small satellites. In addition, I have served as a lecturer at several universities and graduate schools. Following my tenure at JAXA, I launched a space-related consulting service. As of April 2024, I have taken on the role of technical advisor at Orbital Lasers.

Q1. What Is Your Background Prior to Joining Orbital Lasers?

I have extensive experience in satellite control and system design from my time at a major electronics manufacturer and JAXA. Additionally, I have worked as a university lecturer and a consultant in the space field.

My passion for airplanes and rockets began in childhood, exemplified by my middle school project where I built a two-stage rocket from available materials. This early interest led me to major in control systems engineering in the Faculty of Engineering at university. After graduation, I joined the satellite development department of a major electronics manufacturer, focusing on satellite control systems and system design. I later transitioned to JAXA, where I spent around 12 years working on the development and operation of two small satellites and researching debris countermeasures. During this time, I also leveraged my experience to teach at various universities and graduate schools. After retiring from JAXA, I established a space-related consulting service. Looking back, I never anticipated spending over 47 years working with satellites, but it genuinely feels like satellite development is my true calling.

Q2. What prompted you to join Orbital Lasers?

I agreed with the potential of laser-based space debris removal. With the excitement of being involved in satellite development again, I embraced a new stage in my career.

I met Orbital Lasers’ CEO Fukushima after I retired from JAXA when he was still working at SKY Perfect JSAT. SKY Perfect JSAT asked me to review their "laser-based space debris removal satellite system." I saw great potential in the method Fukushima proposed and decided to take on the role of technical development consultant. That was the turning point that led me to join Orbital Lasers. I feel honored as an engineer to once again be involved in satellite development, and every day is fulfilling as we work hard to prove the effectiveness of lasers in space.

Q3. What is the atmosphere like within the company?

It reminds me of my younger days as a passionate engineer. The atmosphere is bright and calm, yet brimming with passion for taking on challenges.

Working at Orbital Lasers often reminds me of my time at JAXA. Back then, young engineers and veterans alike would engage in discussions and run countless experiments together. I feel that same passion in Orbital Lasers today. When I see young engineers enthusiastically working on technology development, I’m inspired to support their growth in any way I can. I hope they will leverage us veterans and gain as many successful experiences as possible. Of course, I also learn a lot from them as well.

Q4. What are your current duties?

Utilizing my experience in the development, launch, and operation of large and small satellites to support Orbital Lasers in various areas as a technical advisor.

At Orbital Lasers, I use my experience in large and small satellite development, launch, and operation to support a wide range of activities as a technical advisor. This includes satellite system planning, building manufacturing systems, evaluating procured equipment, external coordination, technical support for debris removal lasers, and mentoring younger team members. Orbital Lasers possesses technology for a pulsed laser oscillator that is about 10 times more efficient than the global benchmark. We are currently working to support the stable operation of this technology in space, aiming for future success.

Q5. What kind of people do you want to work with?

When facing difficulties, it’s important to smile. The ability to anticipate the future accelerates an engineer’s growth.

At Orbital Lasers, which is taking on unprecedented projects, we often face challenges that have no prior examples. However, I believe that having the attitude of "smiling in difficult times" and finding joy in every situation is key. When overwhelmed by stress and anxiety, it’s hard to come up with good ideas or solutions, and this can lead to a negative cycle. I think that engineers grow faster when they deeply consider how current efforts will impact the long term and how seemingly unrelated events might be connected. I’ve witnessed many situations where "one thing leads to another," similar to the proverb "When the wind blows, the cooper prospers," countless times throughout my career in development.