Delegation from Gunma Prefecture, Japan, visits Vietnam National Space Center

At the working session

During the meeting, VNSC General Director Pham Anh Tuan warmly welcomed the delegation from Gunma Prefecture and introduced the VNSC as a research and application centre for modern space technology, belonging to a national key project – the Vietnam Space Centre Project. Managed by the Vietnam Academy of Science and Technology, the project is funded by Japan’s ODA and reciprocal capital, focusing on mastering small satellite technology and applying satellite data for disaster prevention, climate change response, resource management, and environmental monitoring. The project has completed infrastructure construction at Hoa Lac Hi-Tech Park, including the Operation Centre, Human Resource Development Centre, Knowledge Dissemination Centre, Observatory, Satellite Operations and Application Centre, Satellite Research and Development Centre, and Ground Station. It has also successfully manufactured the LOTUSat-1 satellite and its ground system installed at the VNSC. LOTUSat-1 is a radar satellite capable of detailed Earth surface observation both day and night, under all weather conditions.

VNSC General Director addresses the working session

VNSC General Director Pham Anh Tuan added that, under the development strategy of the Vietnam Academy of Science and Technology to 2030 with a vision to 2045, space science and technology have been identified as breakthrough missions in technological development. He noted that VNSC is currently operating the VNREDSat-1 satellite, preparing to launch LOTUSat-1, and continuing to develop small satellites for Earth observation and disaster management. Through this working session, VNSC expressed its desire to cooperate with Gunma Prefecture in two main areas: effectively utilising LOTUSat-1 satellite imagery for socio-economic development, disaster prevention, resource management, and environmental monitoring; and collaborating with enterprises to manufacture satellite components and produce small satellites in Vietnam. The General Director also requested that IHI Aerospace accelerate the launch of LOTUSat-1 into orbit using its Epsilon rocket.

Governor Ichita Yamamoto speaks at the working session

During the meeting, Governor Ichita Yamamoto expressed his deep sympathy and condolences over the recent losses and damage caused by storms and floods in Vietnam. He emphasised the vital role of Earth observation satellite technology in mitigating damage, preventing natural disasters, and promoting sustainable socio-economic development. The Governor highly appreciated the Vietnam Space Centre Project, describing it as an important symbol of cooperation between Japan and Vietnam, and highlighted the significant role of the business community in promoting bilateral projects. Governor Yamamoto noted that Gunma Prefecture possesses many strengths in digital transformation, innovation, and space technology, particularly in food processing, transport, chemical production, electronics manufacturing, healthcare, and aerospace equipment. He expressed his hope that through this meeting, the two sides could exchange research and manufacturing experience and explore concrete cooperation opportunities between Gunma enterprises and VNSC. Joining the delegation, the General Director of IHI Aerospace also affirmed that the company would actively coordinate with the Japan Aerospace Exploration Agency (JAXA) to launch LOTUSat-1 into orbit as soon as possible.

Taking commemorative photo session

Visiting VNSC

Translated by Phuong Huyen
Link to Vietnamese version