Since the first artificial satellite was launched by U. S. S. R. in October, 1957, a great emphasis has been placed on the space research activities throughout the world.
In Japan, the Institute of Space and Aeronautical Science, University of Tokyo and Science and Technology Agency are playing a most active part in the space research activities.
The author describes the history and background of the space research and development in the past decade, and discusses some problems at which Japan is facing to further promote her space activities.