Axelspace Corporation (“Axelspace”) released an image captured by GRUS-3C, a next-generation Earth observation microsatellite in the AxelGlobe constellation, and downlinked as part of verification activities during initial operations in preparation for commercial operations.
As announced on September 29 and October 6, Axelspace has confirmed the anomaly in the high-speed communication systems of four satellites (GRUS-3B, 3E, 3F and 3G). The three satellites that have not experienced the anomaly (GRUS-3A, 3C and 3D) are undergoing initial operations, with careful verification being carried out for each satellite in preparation for commercial operations.
As part of these verification activities, GRUS-3C captured an image on October 20, and the image data was received on the ground via its high-speed communication system.
*The image released here is test data obtained during initial operations to verify and adjust the satellite’s functions and performance.
The three satellites that have not experienced the anomaly (GRUS-3A, 3C and 3D) incorporate the same design as the four affected satellites (GRUS-3B, 3E, 3F and 3G). Verification activities are therefore being conducted with reduced power consumption of the power amplifiers to prevent excessive temperature increases. Under these operating conditions, Axelspace confirmed the sequence of operations from image capture by GRUS-3C to reception of the image data on the ground.
Axelspace will continue to carefully verify and adjust each satellite’s performance, including equipment temperatures and operating status during communications, ongoing image capture and data reception, and image quality. Through these initial operations, Axelspace aims to commence commercial operations in February 2027.
For previous announcements on GRUS-3, please see the links below.
Notice Regarding a Malfunction of “GRUS-3,” Microsatellites for the AxelGlobe Business (September 29, 2026)
https://www.axelspace.com/news/grus3_20260929/
Update on the Anomaly of “GRUS-3,” Microsatellites for the AxelGlobe Business and Establishment of the “GRUS-3 Anomaly Review Advisory Board” (October 6, 2026; in Japanese)
https://www.axelspace.com/ja/news/grus3_20261006/
About Axelspace
Guided by its vision—“Space within Your Reach”—Axelspace has been at the forefront of microsatellite innovation since its founding in 2008. Leveraging cutting-edge expertise in microsatellite design, manufacturing, and in-orbit operations, the company is redefining how people and industries access space. Its flagship businesses, AxelLiner, which provides satellite development and operation services to help customers realize their space missions, and AxelGlobe, which delivers Earth observation data through Axelspace’s proprietary optical satellite constellation, are driving a new era of space utilization. Through these business activities, Axelspace aims to realize a society where space solutions are accessible to everyone.
Axelspace Corporation
Headquarters: Tokyo, Japan
President and CEO: Yuya Nakamura
Founded: August 2008
https://www.axelspace.com/
Contact Information for Media
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Axelspace Holdings Corporation
E-mail：pr@axelspace.com