ArkEdge Space 6U Micro-satellite Constellation Platform

ArkEdge Space is a Tokyo space start-up founded in July 2018. It offers end-to-end micro-satellite constellation services, covering planning, design, mass production and operation, so that companies and agencies can use satellites for observation, communications and positioning without running their own space programme.

Its core product is a standardised 6U micro-satellite bus (10 x 20 x 30 cm) developed under METI and NEDO programmes, with remote sensing and large-antenna variants that allow several satellites to be built and operated at once. Missions include hyperspectral imaging, maritime VDES communications, RF monitoring of vessels, optical communications and low-Earth-orbit positioning, navigation and timing. ArkEdge also runs its own ground stations; partners include JAXA and SSC Space.

• Standard 6U bus: common platform designed for mass production and constellations.
• Remote sensing model: carries cameras such as hyperspectral imagers.
• Large antenna model: supports maritime VDES and RF signal observation.
• Satellite handover: switching ground contact between satellites as they pass overhead.
• In-house onboard computer and ground stations: demonstrated in orbit in 2026.
• LEO-PNT and lunar work: dual-band positioning demonstration and JAXA LunaNet receiver studies.

• Maritime agencies and shipping companies in Vietnam monitoring vessel signals and VDES messages over the East Sea.
• Research institutes co-developing a 6U Earth observation satellite on a proven bus.
• IoT operators collecting data from remote buoys, fishing boats or sensors beyond mobile coverage.

• A standard 6U bus shortens development time and allows several satellites to be produced in parallel.
• Proven cadence: nine 6U-class satellites entered orbit in one year and twelve in-house satellites have been operated.
• One partner from mission design through operations, including own ground stations.
• Bus variants for remote sensing, large antennas and IoT or maritime communications.

Constellations of small, mass-produced satellites are replacing single large spacecraft for maritime monitoring, IoT connectivity and disaster observation. Southeast Asian countries with long coastlines and busy shipping lanes are looking for maritime situational awareness and satellite IoT, and Japanese space firms are expanding through regional partnerships.

Founded in July 2018; headquartered in Ariake, Koto-ku, Tokyo; CEO Takayoshi Fukuyo. Its ONGLAISAT satellite won a Small Satellite Mission of the Year award; named in NextGen Tech 30 2026. Agreement and MoU with SSC Space for ground segment (2026).