Kitakyushu College of Technology Hosts World-Renowned Space Entrepreneurs to Launch Next-Gen 'Space Entrepreneur' Program — 400 Students Enthusiastically Participate

What is Space Entrepreneurship Education?

Kitakyushu National College of Technology (Kitakyushu City, Fukuoka Prefecture; President: Yoshiki Katayama; hereinafter 'Kitakyushu KOSEN') implemented the 'Space Entrepreneurship Education Program' over two days on June 19 (Fri) and 20 (Sat), 2026, in collaboration with Kitakyushu City. As a unique industry-academia-government event leveraging Kyushu Institute of Technology—ranked No. 1 globally for small satellite operations—and the cluster of emerging space startups in 'Space City Kitakyushu,' aspiring engineers learned the spirit of tackling uncharted fields in the future space industry.

Robocon Champions Return as 'Legends'

On the first day (19th), a special lecture served as the main event, with approximately 400 first- and second-year students filling the gymnasium. First, Tetsu Ikarugi (Associate Professor, University of Tokyo), an alumnus of Kitakyushu KOSEN and member of the 2007 National KOSEN Robocon winning team, took the stage. As a pioneer in formation flight technology for ultra-small satellites, he shared how his Robocon experience paved the way for his current work in space development, delivering an inspiring message to his juniors. Next, Masahiko Utsukihara from QPS Research Inc., a company at the forefront of world-class small SAR satellite development, spoke about his long-standing efforts since his student days to solve the space debris (space junk) problem. He provided real-world insights into sustainable space development. The audience responded with sharp questions such as, 'What do you think is the most rewarding aspect of engineers starting their own companies?'

Students attentively listening to the lecturers Students attentively listening to the lecturers

Hands-On Engineering Experience through 'Can-Sat' Construction

On the second day (20th), students who wished to participate worked under the guidance of Dr. Keisuke Maeda, specially appointed associate professor at Kyushu Institute of Technology, to build 'Can-Sats'—simulated satellites the size of beverage cans. Over the course of one day, they experienced the entire process from circuit board assembly to data collection via sensors, gaining a tangible sense of space development as hands-on 'making' rather than just theoretical knowledge.

Students seriously engaged in the workshop Students seriously engaged in the workshop

From Kitakyushu, the Hub of Space Startups, to the World

Kitakyushu City is a region with exceptional potential in the space industry, highlighted by Kyushu Institute of Technology's eight consecutive years as the world's top institution in small satellite operations. Kitakyushu KOSEN aims to fully leverage these regional strengths to create an environment where students naturally consider the space industry as a viable option for research, employment, or entrepreneurship.

Through this program, participating students expressed enthusiastic intentions such as 'Space now feels much closer to me' and 'I want to become an engineer who dares to challenge without fear of failure.'

Satellite Development Workshop Scheduled

As a collaborative initiative between Kitakyushu City and Kyushu Institute of Technology, a public satellite development workshop led by Professor Kentarou Kitamura of Kyushu Institute of Technology is scheduled for August 22 (Sat), 2026, open to middle school students. (Announcement to follow upon preparation.)

About Kitakyushu National College of Technology

Kitakyushu KOSEN's educational philosophy is 'Cultivating Pioneering Engineers Who Create a Bright Future.'

By providing holistic early STEM education, the college fosters students' engineering aptitude. Through a curriculum emphasizing experiments and practical training, it aims to develop practical and pioneering engineers capable of contributing to society and industry.

◯ Educational Objectives

1. Acquiring broad engineering fundamentals and creative technological development skills

2. Developing international sensibility to be respected and trusted in the global community

3. Nurturing rich humanity capable of developing environmentally friendly technologies

◯ Research Objectives

1. Maintaining and enhancing educational standards to teach advanced practical technologies

2. Contributing to the local community through joint research with regional industries and promoting students' hands-on engineering education

3. Making academic contributions to specialized engineering fields

◯ Regional Contribution Objectives

1. Practicing manufacturing awareness and outreach activities

2. Promoting collaboration with local industries, municipalities, and other organizations

Exterior view of Kitakyushu KOSEN

【School Overview】

Name: National Institute of Technology, Kitakyushu College

Address: 20-1 Shii 5-chome, Kokuraminami-ku, Kitakyushu City, Fukuoka Prefecture

President: Yoshiki Katayama

Established: 1965

Official Website: https://www.kct.ac.jp/

Business: National College of Technology, Higher Education Institution