The University of Tokyo has established the Center for Space Resources and Innovation (CSRI) on October 1, 2025. As humanity faces increasing constraints on Earth’s resources and expands its exploration of the Moon and asteroids, CSRI will serve as a new international hub for advancing the science, technology, and policy of space resource utilization. Its mission is to pioneer a new academic field, “Space Resource Science,” that comprehensively addresses the entire cycle from exploration to utilization.

CSRI will be jointly operated by the Graduate School of Engineering, Graduate School of Science, Graduate School of Frontier Sciences (GSFS), Research Center for Advanced Science and Technology (RCAST), Institute for Future Initiatives (IFI), and The University Museum, The University of Tokyo (UMUT). Bringing together expertise across natural sciences, engineering, and policy studies, CSRI will pursue integrated research and technology development spanning from resource prospecting to in-situ utilization, while contributing to a sustainable balance between extraterrestrial activities and Earth’s future society.

CSRI Vision: Future Applications and Technology Goals for Extraterrestrial Resource

Voices from the Leadership

“Space resources will transform the way we think about exploration and industry,” said Professor Hideaki “Hirdy” Miyamoto, Director of CSRI. “Our researchers are not only engaged in fundamental science but also directly participating in international missions such as NASA’s Artemis III (where I serve as PI of a deployed instrument), Japan’s TSUKIMI and LUPEX lunar missions, JAXA’s MMX Mars Moon eXploration, and even pioneering private initiatives like Karman+’s High Frontier asteroid resource mission. CSRI offers a uniquely efficient and exciting environment where science, technology, and global collaboration converge.”

Miyamoto emphasized that CSRI will also serve as a bridge to society: “We will host international events and conferences in Tokyo to engage not only scientists and engineers but also policymakers, industry, and the public. We encourage anyone interested to follow our updates and register through the CSRI website to stay connected with this rapidly emerging field.”

Prof. Hideaki “Hirdy” Miyamoto, Director of CSRI

Global Partnerships and Talent Development

In parallel, CSRI will engage in broad collaborations with overseas universities and research institutes, including the University of Adelaide, Colorado School of Mines, and the University of Arizona. The center will also develop new educational programs to foster the next generation of globally minded talent capable of shaping the future space economy.

This initiative is closely aligned with the Space Strategic Fund Program’s SX Research & Development Site, launched in May 2025, ensuring strong synergy between advanced technology development and international academic activities.

Inaugural International Conference

To mark its establishment, CSRI will host the Space Resource Initiative international conference at the University of Tokyo’s HASEKO KUMA HALL on November 23–24, 2025. Confirmed keynote speakers include:

• Hideaki Miyamoto (Director, CSRI, The University of Tokyo)
• Angel Abbud-Madrid (Director, Space Resources Program, Colorado School of Mines)
• Erik Asphaug (Professor, The University of Arizona)

Further Information

Website: https://www.csri.u-tokyo.ac.jp