Max Robotics — Global Service Robot Directory + US Certification

About

Hajime Morikawa is a pioneering researcher in space robotics and teleoperation, whose career has been dedicated to advancing the technology of robotic antenna assembly in space. Working primarily with Japan's Communications Research Laboratory, Morikawa has made foundational contributions to the development of systems enabling space robots to construct large-scale antennas in orbit — a capability with transformative implications for future space communication infrastructure. His most influential work, cited ten times, introduced a teleoperation system for antenna assembly by space robots, demonstrating that assembled antennas offer distinct advantages over inflatable or deployable alternatives. Building on this, Morikawa contributed significantly to predictive bilateral control — a sophisticated technique allowing remote operators to receive simulated force and torque feedback despite communication delays inherent in space telemanipulation. His involvement in the Engineering Test Satellite 7 (ETS-7) mission brought these concepts from theory to real-world orbital experimentation, a landmark achievement in Japan's space robotics program. Across his publications, Morikawa has consistently advanced integrated telerobot systems combining robotic arms, real-time simulators, visual guidance, and force/torque sensing. His body of work, while specialized, has laid important groundwork for autonomous and semi-autonomous space construction — a field of growing relevance as humanity pursues increasingly ambitious space infrastructure goals.