Photo/Illutration Mitsubishi Electric Corp. unveils the Daichi-4 satellite to the media in Kamakura, Kanagawa Prefecture, on March 11. (Ayumi Sugiyama)

Mitsubishi Electric Corp.’s new satellite Daichi-4 will observe the Earth’s surface using cutting-edge radar to detect abnormal surface changes for disaster prevention and to better understand the situation of disaster-hit areas.

The company showed the satellite to the media on March 11.

“We hope the satellite will contribute to the realization of a safe, secure and comfortable society,” said Katsuya Sakai, deputy head of Mitsubishi Electric’s Space Systems division.

The company aims to launch the Daichi-4 aboard the H-3 rocket in fiscal 2024.

Mitsubishi Electric developed and manufactured the satellite over eight years after receiving an order from the Japan Aerospace Exploration Agency.

Daichi-4 has a weight of around 3 tons and spans 20 meters in width when its solar panels and other equipment are extended.

The total development cost, including ground facilities, amounts to 32 billion yen ($217 million), according to the company.

Daichi-4 can observe a ground surface four times wider than its predecessor Daichi-2, which is currently in operation.

The improvements will allow for more frequent observations and the collection of more precise information.

The satellite will be used to monitor volcanic activity and ground subsidence, as well as to understand the situation on the ground following a disaster, such as the extent of building damage and flooding.

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