Development and utilization of space capability play a pivotal role in establishing the basis for Japan’s existence as a nation, by means of realizing better quality of life of the people, encouraging industry through satellite-based applications such as telecommunications, broadcasting, positioning/navigation/timing （PNT）, weather forecasting, and earth observation, and bringing new knowledge through space science research. Furthermore, accomplishment in space activities gives a dream to a child. Therefore, it is essential for the nation to develop and utilize space capability.

 Also, pursuit of advanced technologies in aeronautics is very important in order to strengthen the competitiveness of the Japanese aviation industry and to reduce CO2 emissions because aircrafts are indispensable for our daily life.

 Based upon lessons learnt from past accidents and failures, Japan has taken measures to realize a launching system with higher reliability than the global standard. The H-IIA launch vehicle has been successfully launched ten consecutive times in recent years. And in 2009, Japan managed to successfully launch an H-II Transfer Vehicle （HTV）, which carries cargo to the International Space Station, with H-IIB launch vehicle. Besides the above, MEXT prioritizes the measures listed below:

- Promoting research and development of space transportation systems, such as the national primary launching vehicle, in order to maintain and ensure the autonomy in launching satellites and other spacecraft whenever necessary;

- Promoting the construction of satellite-based observation and surveillance system that may contribute to observation of the global environment, disaster monitoring, communications, and positioning/navigation/timing;

- Promoting comprehensively utilization of the space environment through the International Space Station and other space assets;

- Promoting space science research at the highest level in the world, such as space exploration in unexplored regions and the solar system;

- Promoting research and development in aviation science and technology in response to social demands such as passenger safety and environmental compliance.