Free Access to Optical Satellite Imagery Following the 2026 Kumamoto Earthquake

We extend our deepest condolences to the families and loved ones of those who lost their lives in the 2026 Kumamoto Earthquake. Our thoughts are also with everyone affected by the disaster, including those who remain displaced and those working tirelessly on response, recovery, and reconstruction efforts.

In response to the earthquake, Axelspace Corporation (“Axelspace”) has conducted multiple observations of the affected areas using its optical Earth observation microsatellite GRUS-1. The satellite imagery acquired through these observations has been provided to relevant organizations.

To make the data more widely available, Axelspace is also providing, free of charge, post-earthquake satellite imagery acquired through its own initiative, together with pre-earthquake archive imagery for comparison, on the webpage below. The imagery may be used for disaster response purposes, including damage assessment and recovery and reconstruction efforts, as well as for news reporting and research related to the disaster.

Axelspace will continue its efforts to contribute to disaster response and help address societal challenges through the provision of Earth observation data from space.

Website
https://www.axelglobe.com/ja/the-kumamoto-earthquake-in-2026

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 on-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 initiatives, Axelspace is shaping a future where space is accessible and within reach for everyone.

Axelspace Corporation
Headquarters: Tokyo, Japan
President and CEO: Yuya Nakamura
Founded: August 2008
https://www.axelspace.com/