AVATAR X - The next generation of space exploration begins here -

©Chuya Koyama/Kodansha

The next generation of space exploration begins here

Space is an extreme environment that has long been inaccessible to most. But real-world Avatars will revolutionize the exploration and discovery of space by enabling anyone to instantaneously transport their skills and presence into this new frontier. Avatars are a key infrastructure that will extend humanity’s reach into the unknown and enable human life in space. This bold endeavor to unlock space begins here.

©Chuya Koyama/Kodansha

Join
AVATAR X

AVATAR X Program

ANA (All Nippon Airways) and JAXA (Japan Space Exploration Agency) have partnered to create AVATAR X^®, a collaborative program for the advancement of space exploration and development using Avatar technology. The initiative is part of ANA's overarching ANA AVATAR Vision and JAXA’s new research and development program, J-SPARC (JAXA Space Innovation through Partnership and Co-creation), which was created to encourage new innovative collaborations between JAXA and the private sector.

AVATAR X will bridge the gap of science fiction and non-fiction. We aim to bring scenes like those found in the popular Japanese comic series “Space Brothers” to life, by making remote operation of Avatar robots on the surface of the Moon and treatment of patients on space stations in Low Earth Orbit by doctors on Earth a reality.

But the AVATAR X movement will not end there. We will continue to push the limits of Avatars beyond the lunar surface to Mars, and further into deep space.

AVATAR X Consortium

Creation of the AVATAR X expansion roadmap

Earth⇔Earth Phase

Avatar testing on Earth

Earth⇔Space Phase(LEO)

Avatar testing in Low Earth Orbit(LEO) ex: space station

Earth⇔Moon, Mars and beyond

Avatar testing on the lunar surface, Mars, and deep space

※Roadmap as of September 2018. Subject to change.

AVATAR X Lab@OITA

AVATAR X Lab @ OITA is the world’s first dedicated space Avatar test field and will be located in the southern Japanese prefecture of Oita. In collaboration with local authorities, telecommunication infrastructure and research facilities will be built at the site to enable field tests for Avatars. The vision for AVATAR X Lab @ OITA is to become the closest test field to space and a global hub for the space Avatar movement. The world’s latest technologies and greatest minds will come together at this test facility and visitors will not only be able to see but also experience the future of space for themselves.

※Design subject to change.

AVATAR X Lab Design

Three symbolic structures designed by CLOUDS Architecture Office in New York will become the centerpieces of AVATAR X Lab @ OITA. These futuristic buildings were designed to communicate the bond and interaction between humanity and space. They will house a visitor center, co-working spaces and research facilities for the world to utilize and enjoy.

Join AVATAR X

Join the AVATAR X movement and take part in catalyzing new space businesses and exploration opportunities using Avatars.

AVATAR X will begin by focusing on the creation of new space businesses in five development categories selected by JAXA. We are calling upon organizations and companies to join the AVATAR X movement and take part in pioneering the space Avatar economy with us.

AVATAR X Development Categories

EXPLORATIONSpace exploration with a focus on human versatility and serendipitous discovery.

EDUCATIONEducation and travel in space, with the excitement that comes with it.

CONSTRUCTIONDevelopment of structures on the surface of the Moon using Avatars.

HABITATIONRecreation and communication in space and with family and friends on earth.

LIFELINE SUPPORTUtilization of human resources on Earth for essential lifeline support in space ranging from healthcare to agriculture.

AVATAR X Application Guidelines

AVATAR X will launch with the establishment of the AVATAR X Consortium.

Working group sessions will commence in October 2018 to propose and discuss the feasibility of new business concepts. Business concepts chosen by the Consortium will begin launching in April 2019. Applications to join the AVATAR X Consortium are currently being accepted.

For more information on how your company or organization can participate and advance the AVATAR X movement, please contact us.

AVATAR X Members

ANA AVATAR is a new mode of physical transportation envisioned by ANA, Japan’s largest airline. By integrating exponential technologies like robotics, sensors, and haptics, real-world Avatars will allow anyone to experience instantaneous travel, teleporting their presence to a remote location. Avatars are a new technology to connect people limitlessly here on Earth and beyond for the betterment of humanity.

J-SPARC is a new program announced in March 2018 to encourage innovative partnerships between JAXA and businesses in the private sector. Through this open innovation platform, JAXA aims to enhance the creation of new space-related businesses by leveraging its technical expertise, experience, and global network of engineers and experts.