Space is no longer just a destination for astronauts. It is becoming a new frontier for innovation, technology, and international business. As governments and private companies expand their activities beyond Earth, new opportunities are emerging for industries ranging from advanced manufacturing and robotics to communications and scientific research. In our November Luncheon, we are honored to welcome Dr. Koichi Wakata, astronaut and Chief Technology Officer, Asia-Pacific at Axiom Space, for a conversation about space exploration, the evolving space industry, and opportunities for collaboration between Japan, Switzerland, and the international business community.
Few industries capture the imagination quite like space exploration. What was once primarily the domain of national space agencies is increasingly becoming an international ecosystem involving private companies, research institutions, entrepreneurs, and investors. Japan is part of this transformation, with a growing space industry that brings together established aerospace organizations, emerging businesses, and innovative technologies.
But what does this new era of space exploration mean for companies operating in Japan? And where might opportunities arise for Swiss businesses and technologies? For our November Luncheon, the SCCIJ is delighted to welcome Dr. Koichi Wakata, astronaut and Chief Technology Officer, Asia-Pacific at Axiom Space.
Drawing on his experience as an astronaut and his current leadership role in the commercial space industry, Dr. Wakata will bring a unique perspective to a sector where scientific ambition, technological innovation, and international cooperation increasingly intersect. Potential themes include the evolution of Japan’s public and private space activities, the transition from space exploration to commercial applications, and opportunities for international collaboration, including between Japan and Switzerland.
Whether you work in technology, manufacturing, engineering, research, finance, or simply have an interest in the future of space exploration, this luncheon offers a rare opportunity to hear from someone whose career connects the experience of spaceflight with the development of the space industry. Join us for an inspiring encounter at the intersection of space, technology, and business.
| Date: | Tuesday, November 10, 2026 |
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| Schedule: | 12:00 – 14:00 (D.O.: 11:45) |
| Venue: | Grand Hyatt Tokyo, @Residence Anise Minato City, 6-10-3 Roppongi, Tokyo 106-0032 (MAP |
| Fee: | • Members: JPY 6,500 or 1 SCCIJ voucher 2026 • Non-members: JPY 9,600 |
| Registration: |  Deadline: November 6, 2026, 12:00 JST. Until October 26, registration is prioritized for SCCIJ members. After this date, seats will be allocated on a first-come, first-served basis. No-shows and cancellations after the deadline will be fully charged. Please inform us in advance of any dietary restrictions. |
| Concept: | • This event consists of a 3-course lunch followed by a presentation and a Q&A session. The setting is ideal for networking. • Participants are typically members of the Swiss-Japanese business community, but non-members are also welcome to join. • There is no assigned seating (free seating). • Dress code is business / business casual. |
| Disclaimer: | • The SCCIJ may film and take photographs of this event. If you participate, please be noted that these pictures and videos may be used in various media, such as the SCCIJ website, SCCIJ social networking sites, and SCCIJ promotional materials. If you do not want to appear on these pictures and/or videos, kindly notify the SCCIJ staff at the event. • The views expressed by the speaker(s) do not reflect those of the SCCIJ as an organization. |
| Inquiries: | By e-mail to info@sccij.jp |
Biography of the Speaker
Dr. Koichi Wakata, Astronaut and Chief Technology Officer, Asia Pacific, Axiom Space
Dr. Koichi Wakata is a veteran astronaut with over 33 years of experience in human spaceflight and a distinguished career in the international space community. He currently serves as Chief Technology Officer, Asia Pacific, at Axiom Space, where he leads the company’s business expansion and strategic initiatives across the region. He also contributes to the development of Axiom Station, the world’s first commercial space station, and the next-generation spacesuit for NASA’s Artemis program.
Throughout his career, Dr. Wakata has completed five space missions, spending a total of 504 days in space – both records for a Japanese astronaut. He made history as the first Japanese Space Shuttle Mission Specialist in 1996, participated in the construction of the International Space Station (ISS) in 2000, and became the first Japanese commander of the ISS in 2014.
He has held several senior leadership positions at NASA and JAXA, including JAXA Astronaut Group Chief and Vice President for Human Spaceflight Technology and International Space Exploration. Following his retirement from JAXA in March 2024, he joined Axiom Space in April 2024.
Dr. Wakata holds a Ph.D. in Aerospace Engineering, a Master’s degree in Applied Mechanics, and a Bachelor’s degree in Aeronautical Engineering from Kyushu University, Japan.
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