Transition of the Agile Research Program to JAXA-STEPS

The Agile Research Program for Advanced Technology in Satellite Service and Process, which has been promoted by JAXA's Research and Development Directorate, will be integrated with other JAXA programs and relaunched as the JAXA Space Technologies rapid Evaluation Program on Small satellite (JAXA-STEPS).

JAXA has been considering the reorganization and efficient operation of its existing small-satellite-related initiatives, including the Agile Research Program, under a single unified framework. As a result, these efforts will move forward under JAXA-STEPS, which will further expand and enhance JAXA's technology demonstration activities.

JAXA-STEPS was launched in 2025 through the integration of several existing JAXA programs related to small satellites. The new program provides an efficient one-stop mechanism for rapidly delivering proof-of-concept (PoC) opportunities for missions and critical technologies that benefit both the public and private sectors. JAXA-STEPS will accelerate co-creation by leveraging JAXA’s research and development infrastructure and engaging private-sector and academic partners. It will also strengthen JAXA’s capacity to promote research and development, increase the frequency of demonstration missions, and connect technological development with society.