Mitsubishi Electric Corporation recently unveiled its latest satellite, Daichi-4, in Kamakura, Kanagawa Prefecture, to the media. This new satellite is designed to use cutting-edge radar technology to observe the Earth's surface, with a focus on detecting abnormal surface changes that could indicate potential disasters or aid in disaster response efforts. Katsuya Sakai, deputy head of Mitsubishi Electric's Space Systems division, expressed hopes that Daichi-4 would play a pivotal role in creating a safe, secure, and comfortable society through its advanced monitoring capabilities.
The development of Daichi-4 by Mitsubishi Electric spanned over eight years following an order from the Japan Aerospace Exploration Agency. This satellite, weighing approximately 3 tons and boasting a 20-meter width with extended solar panels and equipment, is set to offer enhanced observation capabilities compared to its predecessor, Daichi-2. The company plans to launch Daichi-4 into orbit in fiscal 2024 aboard the H-3 rocket, with a total development cost of 32 billion yen, which includes expenses for ground facilities.
One of the key features of Daichi-4 is its ability to observe a ground surface four times wider than Daichi-2, enabling more frequent and precise monitoring of various phenomena such as volcanic activity, ground subsidence, and post-disaster conditions. By expanding its observational scope and improving data collection methods, the satellite is expected to provide invaluable insights into disaster mitigation and response strategies, including assessing building damage and flood extent in affected areas. Mitsubishi Electric anticipates that Daichi-4 will significantly enhance Earth monitoring capabilities and improve situational awareness for disaster management and prevention.