Conceptual image of a rover-mounted LANS receiver acquiring navigation signals from lunar navigation satellites
Tokyo, Japan, October 16, 2026 – ArkEdge Space Inc. (“ArkEdge Space”), a Japanese space startup that provides comprehensive solutions for micro-satellite constellations, from planning and design to mass production and operations, today announced that it has been selected as the contractor for a JAXA* Concept Study for a “LANS Receiver for a Crewed Pressurized Rover.”
For this concept study, ArkEdge Space will develop the designs for a Lunar Augmented Navigation Service (LANS) receiver to be installed on a crewed pressurized rover for future crewed lunar exploration. LANS is a system that provides positioning and navigation services on and around the Moon under LunaNet, an international framework for lunar communications and navigation.
The concept study will examine the receiver’s baseline configuration, including resource requirements such as mass, power and heat dissipation. It will also define the interface with the crewed pressurized rover system, prepare verification and test plans covering Radio Frequency (RF) compatibility and end-to-end testing, and develop an implementation plan addressing cost, schedule and risk. In addition, ArkEdge Space will identify areas requiring further advancement in technology readiness before proceeding to the development phase and define the associated technical challenges and potential solutions.
Dr. Toshihiro Shibukawa, Manager of the PNT Department at ArkEdge Space, said:
“Positioning and navigation will be essential infrastructure for future crewed lunar exploration. We are excited to explore a receiver for the crewed pressurized rover, which will play a key role in sustained lunar exploration.
Through the development of the LNSS demonstration satellite, ArkEdge Space has built expertise in ‘transmitting’—sending navigation signals to the Moon. This concept study takes us to the ‘receiving side’—using those signals on the lunar surface. By addressing the unique constraints of the lunar environment, we aim to take a concrete first step toward the routine use of navigation services on the Moon.”
* JAXA: Japan Aerospace Exploration Agency
About ArkEdge Space
ArkEdge Space is a Japanese space technology company offering end-to-end solutions for micro-satellite constellations—from planning and design to mass production and operations. Guided by its mission of “empowering people with satellites for a prosperous future,” the company is advancing capabilities in Earth observation, maritime satellite communications (VDES), optical communications, and low-Earth orbit satellite positioning, as well as lunar activities and deep space exploration. Through our mission, ArkEdge Space continues to drive the advancement of space innovation and its practical application.
Head Office Location
3F, Dome Ariake Headquarter, 1-3-33 Ariake, Koto-ku, Tokyo, Japan
CEO: Takayoshi FUKUYO
Founded: in July 2018
Website: https://arkedgespace.com/