IHI-SAT2 Hyperspectral Satellite Successfully Deploys for Forest Carbon Analysis

The ultra-compact IHI-SAT2 hyperspectral satellite successfully achieved orbital insertion and confirmed two-way communications following its deployment on November 28, 2025. The satellite was launched aboard SpaceX’s Transporter-15 rideshare mission, lifting off from Space Launch Complex 4E (SLC-4E) at Vandenberg Space Force Base in California. The launch vehicle utilized a flight-proven Falcon 9 first stage booster, B1071, which completed its 30th flight before recovering on the "Of Course I Still Love You" droneship in the Pacific Ocean. The mission placed 140 total payloads into a sun-synchronous orbit, marking a significant step for IHI Corporation as it expands its autonomous capabilities in sophisticated hyperspectral observation and data processing.

The primary operational objective for IHI-SAT2 is the collection of high-resolution hyperspectral imagery across diverse terrestrial regions to directly support forest management protocols managed by NeXT FOREST Corporation. NeXT FOREST is a strategic joint venture established on February 7, 2023, between IHI Corporation and Sumitomo Forestry Company Limited. The satellite is engineered to yield comprehensive spectral datasets while reducing the mission expenditure typically associated with legacy observation platforms. Furthermore, the operational expertise gained from IHI-SAT2 is intended for integration into IHI's forthcoming suite of satellite-based data services, positioning the craft as a foundational element of the company's future Earth observation constellation.

The satellite's hyperspectral sensor facilitates the fine-scale identification of specific tree species and allows for precise assessment of growth conditions or early indications of disease. This level of spectral detail surpasses the analytical power of conventional optical imaging systems because the payload measures light across numerous, narrow wavelength bands. Such granular data is instrumental in accurately distinguishing various vegetation types and detecting subtle shifts in overall forest health, directly supporting NeXT FOREST’s mandate, which includes consulting for tropical peatland management and the commercialization of high-quality carbon credits through accurate measurement of CO2 absorption.

Kongsberg NanoAvionics, headquartered in the Republic of Lithuania, delivered the complete small satellite solution, built upon their 6U CubeSat bus platform. This delivery included the integration of the hyperspectral payload selected by IHI, along with support through rigorous testing, launch preparation logistics, and early orbit operations. This successful mission continues Kongsberg NanoAvionics' record of establishing first contact on every one of their more than 50 satellite missions launched. The M6P bus has a flight heritage in Earth observation, with NanoAvionics reporting a mission full lifetime success rate of 94.44%, which is above the industry average of 72.69%.

Yoshifumi Asakura of IHI Corporation's Aero Engine, Space & Defense Business Area stated that the mission expedites their internal capacity to independently acquire and analyze complex hyperspectral data, framing it as a milestone in developing a sustainable ecosystem for forest stewardship and carbon credit verification. Atle Wollo, CEO of Kongsberg NanoAvionics, emphasized a growing trend where industrial entities leverage small satellites as strategic instruments for generating tangible, data-driven value on Earth. IHI’s broader commitment to space-derived information includes developing a SAR constellation with ICEYE and a Thermal IR constellation with SatVu, aiming for a multi-domain Earth observation network.