Project OHISAMA: Harvesting Space-Based Solar Power.

In a world-first attempt to solve terrestrial energy constraints, the Japan Aerospace Exploration Agency (JAXA) is preparing for the 2026 launch of the OHISAMA satellite. The satellite is designed to convert constant, unshielded solar energy into microwaves and beam them back to a series of 13 receiving antenna stations in Suwa, central Japan. While the initial test aims to capture 1 kW of energy, it serves as the proof-of-concept for a massive 1 GW orbital solar array. With 90% of its energy currently imported, Japan is betting on space solar as a reliable, carbon-neutral alternative to traditional land-based renewables, which are difficult to scale in Japan’s mountainous and densely populated terrain.

©YovaniBernard