How to Pursue Master’s or PhD Degrees
and Explore Career Pathways in Space-Related Fields in Japan
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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.
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.
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.
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.
An opportunity to ask Prof. Nakasuka your questions directly.
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.
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.
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.
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.
Humanity is entering a new era of space exploration.
What was once imagined in science fiction is becoming reality.
The Moon and Mars are no longer simply destinations to observe —
they are becoming new frontiers for exploration,
technology, and human possibility.
But exploring these frontiers requires
more than expertise in a single field.
At FREX —
the Graduate School of Frontier Exploration in Earth and Space,
we bring together three perspectives:
SCIENCE
to understand planets, geology, minerals,
and the environments of Earth and space.
ENGINEERING
to transform knowledge into spacecraft,
exploration systems, and new technologies.
MANAGEMENT
to bring people, technology,
and international projects together.
Science × Engineering × Management
By crossing the boundaries between disciplines
— and between Earth and Space —
FREX aims to cultivate a new generation
capable of turning exploration into real-world innovation.
The next frontier is waiting.
What will you discover there?
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.
Reserve your spot to learn from the top expert.
Replay is available after the live.