Transformation of Japanese Space Policy

Paper number

IAC-06-E3.1.A.05

Author

Dr. Kazuto Suzuki, University of Tsukuba, Japan

Year

2006

Abstract

For more than three decades, Japanese space policy was conducted without much intervention from political concerns.  The objective of Japanese space policy, since its beginning, was to “catch-up” with advanced spacefaring countries.  Therefore, the space policy-making was not so complicated, since choices for space policy was limited to develop technologies that Japan has not yet developed.

This “catching up” strategy is now facing with a lot of difficulties.  First, the downturn of economy and accumulated public debts forced the government to restructure its spending policy, and space became one of the victims.  Second, changing security environment around Japan is now calling more investment in space, but because of the Diet resolution in 1969 for “exclusively peaceful use of space”, Japanese government has been constrained to invest in anything related to defense.  Third, Japanese technological capability has reached to certain level, and there were little room left for “catching up”.

In these circumstances, Japanese space community realized the necessity for changing its national space strategy.  In fact, there are variety of actions took place in the last few years for developing new strategy for Japanese space.  In 2004, CSTP, the highest authority for decision-making in Science and Technology, issued strategic paper to call for more investment in socially useful applications.  In 2005, JAXA issued its “Long-term Vision” with focus on developing technology for social infrastructure.  Also in 2005, some Japanese powerful politicians, including former Minister for Science and Technology, issued a report on “National Space Strategy Building” which demanded the government to establish new decision-making structure.  These efforts are all focusing the need for Japanese space to shift the focus of policy from technological development to application.

This paper seeks to evaluate these endeavors and find out how Japanese space policy will be changed in near future.  In doing so, it will discuss the difficulties and barriers for the transformation.  For the successful transformation of space policy, it needs a strong commitment from politicians who recognize the strategic importance of space.

Abstract document

IAC-06-E3.1.A.05.pdf

Manuscript document

IAC-06-E3.1.A.05.pdf (🔒 authorized access only).

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