2025 U.S.-Japan Space Forum in Texas Spotlights Commercial LEO Collaboration

Japan-America Society of Houston ·

HOUSTON, TX – December 2, 2025 — Leaders from across the U.S. and Japanese space sectors gathered at Rice University for the 2025 U.S.–Japan Space Forum in Texas, an annual event focused on the future of Commercial Low Earth Orbit (LEO) Destinations and the next chapter of bilateral space cooperation.

Hosted by the Japan-America Society of Houston (JASH) with support from the Consulate-General of Japan in Houston, the forum explored how NASA, JAXA, and commercial partners are preparing for a post–International Space Station era defined by privately operated orbital platforms. This year’s theme—“U.S.–Japan Space Collaboration: Charting the Future of Commercial LEO Destinations”—framed discussions on technology development, scientific utilization, and new commercial models driving LEO activity.

The Honorable Zentaro Naganuma, Consul General of Japan in Houston, opened the program with remarks on Japan’s expanding role in commercial space partnerships. Greetings from Senator John Cornyn, Representative Brian Babin, and Donna Shafer, Associate Director at NASA’s Johnson Space Center, further emphasized the importance of Texas in shaping national space priorities.

Keynote addresses were delivered by NASA Astronaut Nichole Ayers and JAXA Astronaut Takuya Onishi, both of whom recently completed missions aboard the International Space Station. Their reflections on flight operations, research, and international teamwork offered a firsthand perspective on lessons that will guide the transition to commercial LEO infrastructure.

Industry Leaders Outline the Next Generation of Orbital Infrastructure

The forum featured a comprehensive set of presentations from industry leaders who are actively shaping the rapidly accelerating LEO marketplace. Presenters included:

  • Dr. Michael Baine, Chief Engineer Growth, Axiom Space

  • Dr. Meghan Everett, Principal Scientist, Vast Space

  • Olivier Farache, Chief Revenue Officer, Vast Space (panel representative)

  • Tim Kopra, Chief Human Exploration Officer, Voyager Technologies

  • Dr. Randy Lillard, Senior Director of Program Management, Blue Origin

  • Yudai Yamamoto, President & CEO, Japan LEO Shachu, Inc.

  • Kazuya Yufu, Director of Launch Services & Manager of Global Business Development, Mitsubishi Heavy Industries, Ltd.

Collectively, these leaders highlighted the remarkable momentum underway in LEO activity—from modular station architectures and commercial research platforms to expanded launch services and new U.S.–Japan industrial partnerships. Their presentations reinforced the shared view that LEO is on the cusp of a commercially driven phase defined by innovation, competition, and deeper international cooperation.

A panel discussion moderated by Dr. David Alexander, Director of the Rice Space Institute, further examined opportunities for bilateral collaboration in commercial station development, technology integration, and long-term orbital sustainability.

Strengthening Bilateral Collaboration

The forum concluded with remarks from Takajiro “Tak” Ishikawa, Chairman of JASH and President & CEO of Mitsubishi Heavy Industries America, who emphasized the critical importance of public-private partnerships in building a resilient Commercial LEO ecosystem.

A networking reception and company showcase followed, offering attendees opportunities to continue discussions and explore future pathways for U.S.–Japan cooperation in LEO.

SELECT IMAGES FROM THE EVENT | photos by Night.Sky.Creative