NTT, Mitsubishi Electric and Three Others Study Mega-Constellation

The five plan to assess technical and business feasibility for communications, Earth observation, PNT (positioning, navigation and timing) and space-based data centers. Targets include communications and observation infrastructure, covering connectivity during disasters and in areas with limited coverage, positioning data, and more efficient use of satellite data through orbital data centers.

Who does what

NTT will examine whether an integrated space-and-ground network is feasible using technologies such as IOWN. NTT Docomo Business will turn customer needs into concrete use cases and services. Mitsubishi Electric will draw on its experience developing satellite and ground systems to handle technical study of the overall system design and integration.

MUFG Bank will use its domestic and overseas client base and networks to help build business and manufacturing supply chains and expand sales channels. DBJ will assess commercialization from a neutral, long-term perspective and explore cooperation with government, industry, academia and financial institutions.

The agreement covers only a feasibility study, so no investment size, launch schedule or satellite count has been given. The outcome will show whether a Japanese-led constellation can move from concept to a business.