Graduate Study Earth & Space
in Japan

FREE LIVE Masterclass

How to pursue Space Research, Innovation and Career Pathways in Japan for Master’s & PhD Students 

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Keynote Speaker

Shinichi NAKASUKA

Professor Shinichi Nakasuka is one of Japan's leading experts in space engineering and microsatellites. After earning his Doctor of Engineering from the University of Tokyo, he joined its faculty and became Professor of Aeronautics and Astronautics in 2004. 

He led the world's first 1 kg microsatellite launch in 2003 and has since overseen the development of 15 microsatellites. From 2012 to 2022, he chaired Japan's Cabinet Office Space Policy Committee. Since 2026, he has served as Professor at Ritsumeikan University and Special Aide to the President, and is scheduled to become the founding Dean of the Graduate School of Frontier Exploration in Earth and Space (FREX) in 2028.
  • Pioneer behind XI-IV, one of the world’s first CubeSat missions (2003)
  • 15 successful microsatellite launches to date
  • Former Chair, Basic Policy Subcommittee, Cabinet Office Committee on Space Policy
  • Future Founding Dean, Graduate School of Frontier Exploration in Earth and Space (FREX) in Ritsumeikan University
15
Microsatellites Launched
20+ years
University of Tokyo Professor
10+ years
Chair of Japan's Space Policy Committee

What You Will Learn

01

Special Lecture  :  Prof. Shinichi Nakasuka

A pioneer of the Micro-satellite Revolution
Discover the Future of Space Through the Eyes of Professor Shinichi Nakasuka


Hear directly from one of Japan’s leading authorities on micro-satellite engineering, whose pioneering work helped open space development to universities, start-ups and emerging nations around the world.

Professor Nakasuka will share his perspective on the rapidly evolving world of space exploration, innovation and research—and what this new era could mean for the next generation of researchers.

02

How to Pursue a Master’s or PhD in Space-Related Fields in Japan

Turn Your Interest in Space into a Graduate Study Pathway

Explore how international students can prepare for graduate study in Japan, from identifying a research field and finding the right program to understanding the application journey.

03

Why Study Space and Earth Sciences in Japan?

Explore Earth and Space Beyond the Boundaries of a Single Discipline

Discover Ritsumeikan University’s new Graduate School of Frontier Exploration and its interdisciplinary approach to studying Earth, space, technology and society.

04

Inside FREX: A New Graduate School for a New Frontier

Explore Earth and Space Beyond the Boundaries of a Single Discipline

Discover Ritsumeikan University’s new Graduate School of Frontier Exploration and its interdisciplinary approach to studying Earth, space, technology and society.

05

Live Q&A

An opportunity to ask Prof. Nakasuka your questions directly.

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Recipient of the Prime Minister’s Award

Professor Shinichi Nakasuka and the Hodoyoshi Project Team were honored by the Government of Japan for their groundbreaking contributions to microsatellite innovation and the advancement of Japan’s space industry.

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A Pioneer of the World’s First 1 kg Satellite
Following the successful launch of the world’s first 1 kg satellite in 2003, Professor Shinichi Nakasuka and his team have successfully launched 15 microsatellites—helping pioneer a new era of smaller, faster, and more accessible space development.

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Recipient of the MEXT Minister’s Commendation
Professor Shinichi Nakasuka was honored for advancing microsatellite education and innovation, cultivating future space talent, and expanding access to space development across Japan and emerging nations.

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Internationally Recognized for Excellence in Space Education
 Professor Shinichi Nakasuka received the 2022 Frank J. Malina Astronautics Medal from the International Astronautical Federation for his outstanding global contributions to microsatellite education and the development of future space professionals.

The future won't be built
by those who only study space.

It will be built by those who dare to explore it.

The future of humanity will be shaped beyond Earth.

Humanity is entering a new era.

From lunar exploration and Mars missions to the rapidly growing space economy, tomorrow's breakthroughs will require people who can connect science, engineering, and innovation.

Japan stands at the forefront of this transformation.

At FREX, you won't simply study Earth and Space—you'll develop the knowledge, research experience, and global perspective needed to shape the future of humanity.

The next frontier is waiting.
Will you help build it?

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Hosted by

Ritsumeikan University
From Kyoto to the Frontiers of Space

With roots in Kyoto dating back to 1869, Ritsumeikan University brings more than 150 years of academic heritage to the future of space exploration.

Today, through its Earth & Space Exploration Center and the new Graduate School of Frontier Exploration in Earth and Space—FREX—Ritsumeikan is bringing together science, engineering, and management to advance lunar and planetary exploration and cultivate the next generation of space leaders.

FREX is scheduled to open in April 2028. 

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FREX MASTERCLASS

Graduate Study
 Earth & Space
in Japan

Reserve your spot to learn from the top expert.

Sat Oct 10Date
9:00 PM GMT9Start
60 minLength
OnlineZoom
ReplaySent to all

Replay is available after the live.