Overview of the Facility
History and Establishment
The facility was established in February 1968 by the Space Development Promotion Headquarters of the former Science and Technology Agency under the name Katsuura Radio Tracking Station.
In October 1969, the Space Development Promotion Headquarters developed into the National Space Development Agency of Japan (NASDA), and the facility became part of NASDA. It is now operated as part of JAXA.
Role and Operations
The center’s primary responsibility is the tracking and control of artificial satellites. Radio signals transmitted by satellites are received at the facility, allowing operators to monitor important information such as the spacecraft’s orbit, location, orientation, and onboard equipment.
The center can also transmit command signals to satellites when required. Through these communications, the facility supports the safe and reliable operation of spacecraft in orbit.
Site Area
The Katsuura Space Communications Center occupies an area of approximately 54,000 square meters. Several antennas and tracking and control facilities are located across the spacious site.
Major Facilities and Equipment
Equipment Used for Satellite Tracking and Control
- Public Relations Antenna: An antenna used for the center’s public information and outreach activities.
- New GN Transmitting and Receiving Antenna: An important antenna used to communicate with artificial satellites.
- USB (F)-1 Transmitting Building: A facility used to transmit command signals to satellites.
- USB (F)-2 Transmitting Building: A supplementary transmission facility for satellite communications.
- Tracking and Control Building: The central facility for tracking and controlling artificial satellites.
Satellites Tracked and Controlled
The Katsuura Space Communications Center has been involved in tracking and controlling a variety of Japanese satellites, including:
- Data Relay Test Satellite “Kodama” (DRTS)
- Solar-B “Hinode”, a solar observation satellite
- Engineering Test Satellite VIII “Kiku-8” (ETS-VIII)
- Wideband InterNetworking engineering test and Demonstration Satellite “Kizuna” (WINDS)
- Greenhouse Gases Observing Satellite “Ibuki” (GOSAT)
- Global Change Observation Mission–Water “Shizuku” (GCOM-W1)
- Small Demonstration Satellite-4 (SDS-4)
- Planetary Spectroscopy and Atmospheric Remote Sensing Satellite “Hisaki” (SPRINT-A)
- Advanced Land Observing Satellite-2 “Daichi-2” (ALOS-2)
Public Exhibits and Special Open Days
Exhibition Room
The Katsuura Space Communications Center has an exhibition area open to the general public. Admission is free, and the exhibition area is open year-round.
Displays include panels and models related to artificial satellites and space technology, giving visitors an opportunity to learn about Japan’s space development and the technologies used to communicate with spacecraft.
Special Public Open Days
Special open days are held each year during Science and Technology Week and on Space Day. These events may include tours of areas of the facility normally not accessible to visitors, explanations by specialists, and workshops designed for children.
The programs provide an enjoyable opportunity for families and other visitors to learn more about satellites, space communications, and Japan’s space development.
Access
Location
Address: Katsuura City, Chiba Prefecture
By Train
Approximately 15 minutes by taxi from Katsuura Station on the JR Sotobo Line.
By Car
Approximately 50 minutes from the Ichihara Tsurumai Interchange on the Ken-O Expressway.
A Place to Experience Japan’s Space Technology
Katsuura Space Communications Center plays an important role in Japan’s space activities by tracking and controlling artificial satellites from the ground. Its antennas and control facilities provide the communications infrastructure needed to monitor spacecraft and send commands from Earth.
The center’s public exhibition area and special open-day events also provide an opportunity for visitors to learn about satellites and space technology in an accessible way. For travelers interested in science and technology, it offers a unique perspective on another side of Katsuura beyond its beaches, hot springs, and traditional cultural attractions.