The Remote Sensing Technology Center of Japan (RESTEC) was established in August 1975, with the aim of implementing basic and comprehensive research and development of remote-sensing technology for investigating global phenomena and Earth resources using data obtained from satellites, and disseminating knowledge of remote-sensing technology and other utilization of space technology, in order to promote economic growth and social development as well as the well-being of the nation.

Their business

Earth observation

Since the establishment of the Earth Observation Center (EOC) under the Japan Aerospace Exploration Agency (JAXA), RESTEC has served as a specialized organization in the remote sensing industry for more than 35 years. It provides a consistent, one-stop service for satellite observation operations, from the reception and processing of Earth observation data, to the development of ground systems, calibration and validation, and distribution of the data to users.

RESTEC is acquiring various forms of technology. These include correction technologies for satellite data, for which a high level of precision and complicated operations are required in order to conduct Earth observations, as well as the establishment of systems that can help users conduct searches easily among vast data libraries.

Capacity building

RESTEC has positioned the development of human resources aimed at the promulgation of remote sensing technologies as one of the pillars of its businesses. To that end, it receives set-up requests and conducts training programs on applied technology targeted at researchers from Japan and overseas including developing countries, practitioners from national and local governments, as well as general users. It also carries out a wide range of other activities, such as accepting students for thesis training and conducting trial lessons on remote sensing for high school students.

Solutions business

RESTEC provides solutions that match the needs of its customers, based on the knowhow it has accumulated through the reception, processing, analysis, and distribution of earth observation data within Japan and overseas.

Research and development

RESTEC has continued to conduct research ranging from fundamental research such as studies on the reflective properties of target observation objects, to applied research in the areas of environmental monitoring and management of forests, water resources, the atmosphere, and oceans, food safety and security, disaster prevention, development of information on national land and infrastructure, and other fields of data application.

Think tank/consulting

RESTEC has built up a wealth of experience in providing support for remote sensing activities in Japan over a long period of 35 years. Utilizing its various resources, including human resources and the experience it has gained through its research and development, satellite observation operations, solutions, and capacity-building businesses, RESTEC carries out activities in its role as a think-tank in the field of remote sensing.