Miniature Satellite "Raicho" Developed by High School Students in Gifu Prefecture Released into Orbit from the International Space Station
The ultra-small satellite "Raicho (GHS-01)," developed through a collaborative effort led by the Center for Space Research and Utilization Promotion affiliated with the Faculty of Engineering, Gifu University, in cooperation with technical high schools and companies across Gifu Prefecture, was successfully released into orbit from the Japanese Experiment Module "Kibo" on the International Space Station (ISS) on September 19, 2025. The satellite had been launched into space aboard a rocket on August 24.
To mark the occasion, a live viewing event was held at the Seiryu Lobby on the 20th floor of the Gifu Prefectural Government Office. Approximately 70 participants gathered, including high school students involved in the satellite's development, members of Gifu University, Gifu Prefectural government officials led by Governor ESAKI Yoshihide, and representatives from partner companies. Joining remotely were Professor TSUDA Yuichi, Project Manager of the Hayabusa2 mission (Japan Aerospace Exploration Agency, JAXA), MIKAMI Kenji, Counselor at the Cabinet Office's Space Development Strategy Promotion Secretariat, and members of a satellite project team from Nagasaki Prefecture. All participants watched the real-time broadcast of the satellite's release from the ISS via JAXA's official YouTube channel, "JAXA Channel."
During the countdown, messages were sent from the Seiryu Lobby to the ISS. When the footage showed "Raicho" being safely released into space, the venue erupted in applause and cheers. President YOSHIDA Kazuhiro of Gifu University expressed his joy, saying, "The moment of the successful release was truly moving. I am delighted that the dreams of those involved in the satellite's development have come true, and that this achievement will inspire the dreams of the next generation."
"Raicho" is scheduled to carry out missions, such as photographing Earth from space and facilitating international exchange through voice communication. High school students from Gifu Prefecture will continue to be actively involved in its operations.
