- Space Data Inc. and KDDI Corporation are set to conduct a robotic operation demonstration in the Virtual International Space Station (Virtual ISS) from April to October 2025.
- The demonstration will simulate JAXA’s Int-Ball2 robot, using real ISS operational commands to validate and improve the accuracy of the virtual environment.
What happened: Advancing virtual robotics in space exploration
Space Data Inc. and KDDI Corporation, in collaboration with the Japan Aerospace Exploration Agency (JAXA), are embarking on a pioneering project to conduct robotic operations within the Virtual International Space Station (Virtual ISS). This initiative, scheduled from April to October 2025, aims to simulate and validate the behaviour of space robots in a virtual environment using the same operational commands employed for JAXA’s Int-Ball2 robot currently on the real ISS.
By leveraging high-precision 3D spatial data and physical environment simulations, the Virtual ISS will allow for comprehensive testing and validation of robotic systems, significantly reducing development costs and enhancing space station operations. The project also aligns with Japan’s Space Strategy Fund, which seeks to democratise space through digital technology and foster new business opportunities.
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Why it’s important
The collaboration between Space Data, KDDI, and JAXA represents a significant step towards the democratisation of space exploration. By creating a high-fidelity virtual environment that replicates the ISS, the project aims to lower the barriers to entry for private companies and educational institutions interested in space robotics and astronaut training.
The Virtual ISS, available on Steam, offers a unique opportunity for global participation in space development, potentially revolutionising how space missions are planned and executed. Additionally, the initiative supports Japan’s broader space strategy, which seeks to leverage digital technology to address global challenges and foster innovation in the space industry. This project not only enhances the accuracy of space simulations but also paves the way for future advancements in space technology and exploration.
