Tenchijin Selected as Data Service Provider of Japan Space Agency’s Advanced Land Observing Satellite-4 (ALOS-4)

February 26, 2025

Source: Media Outreach

TOKYO, JAPAN – Media OutReach Newswire – 26 February 2025 – Tenchijin, Inc. (Chuo-ku, Tokyo, CEO: Yasuhito Sakuraba), a Japanese satellite tech company endorsed by the Japan Aerospace Exploration Agency JAXA, has been selected as a data service provider to utilize the PALSAR-3 observation data of Advanced Land Observing Satellite-4 “DAICHI-4”(ALOS-4), which is carried out by Space Technology Directorate I of JAXA. Tenchijin will provide data services to the general public using ALOS-4 observation data until March 2028.

Tenchijin Selected as Data Service Provider of Japan Space Agency’s Advanced Land Observing Satellite-4 (ALOS-4)

This will be the first online sale¹ of such data in Japan and will enable anyone to easily and immediately purchase the data of their interest in a small area at a low price. The timing of the service will be announced shortly.

¹Users can select data, place orders, and make payments all online.

About Advanced Land Observing Satellite-4 “DAICHI-4”(ALOS-4)

The Advanced Land Observing Satellite-4 (ALOS-4) is a satellite that observes Earth’s surface using its onboard phased array type L-band synthetic aperture radar (PALSAR-3). The L-band radar technology has continuously been developed in Japan. With further improved observation performance compared to the predecessor PALSAR-2 aboard the DAICHI-2 (ALOS-2), JAXA and its prime contractor, Mitsubishi Electric Corporation, are developing the satellite, aiming to achieve both high resolution and a broader observation swath.
Unlike observations by an optical sensor, radar images can be acquired day and night, as it does not require sunlight. Moreover, since radio waves can penetrate clouds, the images can be obtained regardless of weather conditions. The ALOS-4 will leverage these merits for observing and monitoring disaster-hit areas, forests, and sea ice. In addition, it will also challenge new areas, such as monitoring infrastructure displacement.

Reference: https://global.jaxa.jp/projects/sat/alos4/

About the Public Solicitation for Data Service Provider Using Observation Data of ALOS-4

JAXA aims to provide data and services to the general public, mainly through the private sector, as part of its efforts to expand the ALOS-4 observation data and service business through public-private partnerships.

This time, as part of the public solicitation for the selection of the private-sector operator, JAXA requested proposals for a project to provide ALOS-4 data to general users until FY2027. Proposals were requested to include an outline of the project, including a mechanism for general users to access ALOS-4 observation data, a project concept and vision, a schedule and implementation structure, and other information such as the price for providing data services.

Reference: https://www.satnavi.jaxa.jp/ja/news/2024/07/30/9597/index.html

Tenchijin’s Thoughts on the Space Industry

Tenchijin has launched a new initiative to expand the use of satellite data in Japan. Satellite data has the power to solve social issues in a wide range of fields, including agriculture, disaster prevention, urban planning, and energy. However, in Japan, issues such as technical hurdles, cost, and lack of awareness have hindered the spread of data. The goal of Tenchijin is to change this situation and transform satellite data from something special to something familiar.

ALOS-4, launched by JAXA in 2024, will play an innovative role in the fields of crustal deformation, disaster prevention, forest management, and agriculture with the world’s highest resolution and observation coverage. For example, in disaster-prone Japan, the ability to observe at night and under bad weather conditions can be utilized to quickly assess damage from heavy rainfall and earthquake disasters. In addition, the system is expected to be used in a variety of ways toward a sustainable society, such as estimating forest carbon stocks and determining crop acreage in the agricultural sector.

Tenchijin will make the data provided by ALOS-4 available to as many people as possible. First, Tenchijin will provide an intuitive platform that is easy for anyone to use, enabling data analysis without special knowledge. In addition, Tenchijin will develop a service model with low introduction costs to create an environment in which small and medium-sized companies and local governments can easily utilize the service. Furthermore, Tenchijin will proactively disseminate best practices and work to ensure that the value of satellite data is widely recognized.

In addition, Tenchijin will focus on human resource development through training and workshops to broaden the base of professionals who can handle data. Tenchijin will also work with local governments, private companies, and educational institutions to build an ecosystem that can solve social issues from a variety of perspectives.

The power of data will change the future. Based on this belief, Tenchijin will do its utmost to realize a sustainable future by maximizing the power of satellite data.

About Tenchijin COMPASS

In July 2022, Tenchijin released a free plan for its land evaluation engine, Tenchijin COMPASS. Tenchijin COMPASS is a land evaluation service that comprehensively analyzes, visualizes, and provides data based on various data, including big data from earth observation satellites. It can be customized for various purposes, from agricultural production to urban development, and it can find the best land for business from space.

Many people think of satellite data as photos taken from satellites. Images taken from satellites are typical satellite data, but Tenchijin COMPASS can also obtain weather information such as precipitation, topographical information represented by 3D maps, and surface temperatures observed by infrared light anywhere in the world.

Tenchijin COMPASS also allows to overlay ground data and performance data that are already available to perform composite analysis.

How to use Tenchijin COMPASS

・Cost: free
・Supported languages: English, Japanese
・Supported browsers: Google Chrome recommended, PC only
・Website URL: https://tenchijin.co.jp/compass/
Contact: info-compass@tenchijin.co.jp

https://tenchijin.co.jp/?hl=en
https://www.linkedin.com/company/tenchijin/
https://x.com/tenchijin_pr?hl=ja
https://www.facebook.com/tenchijin.pr?hl=ja

Hashtag: #Tenchijin #Space #SatelliteTechnology #Sustainability

The issuer is solely responsible for the content of this announcement.

– Published and distributed with permission of Media-Outreach.com.

Burglar not up to par

LiveNews Publisher

February 26, 2025

Source: New Zealand Police (District News)

Police scored a hole in one following a series of burglaries in Waiuku over recent months.

The Pukekohe Tactical Crime Unit have been investigating a number of burglaries at a Waiuku golf club since November 2024.

Detective Senior Sergeant Simon Taylor says the clubrooms had been the target of each burglary.

“A number of items including tills and alcohol were allegedly taken during the offending,” he says.

“Since these reports, CCTV footage and forensics enquiries have been carried out in the investigation.”

It has led to the arrest of a 37-year-old man, who faces three burglary charges.

The man is expected in the Pukekohe District Court today.

“Our enquiries are ongoing into these matters and we cannot rule out further charges at this stage,” Detective Senior Sergeant Taylor says.

“I know these burglaries have been subject of discussion amongst the community, and we will continue to hold those to account where there is sufficient evidence.”

Any suspicious behaviour should be promptly reported to the Police.

ENDS.

Jarred Williamson/NZ Police

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Multi-million-dollar exotic caulerpa control tool projects underway

LiveNews Publisher

February 26, 2025

Source: New Zealand Government

Big strides are being taken in the development of new technology to control the invasive exotic caulerpa seaweed, says Biosecurity Minister Andrew Hoggard.“A $10 million funding injection last year helped drive improvements to technology and getting new tools in the water. Today I’m happy to detail three exciting projects that have been funded.“These new projects focus on methods that showed progress in an earlier phase of work.”Northland Regional Council has been awarded the largest contract, with $6.2 million to progress its large-scale mechanical suction dredging technique.“We know from the first phase of the accelerated programme that this method can remove exotic caulerpa from sandy areas of the seafloor, and now we’re looking to increase its effectiveness. “The project team is developing a new tool called a ‘submersible dredge planer’ which will operate remotely on the seafloor, rather than from a barge, and will remove caulerpa in a single pass. “The new system will include a dredge head, pumping arrangement, GPS positioning system, dredge spoil processing plant, and disposal system.” The second project, receiving $2 million in funding, is to develop an ultra-violet light (UV-C) irradiation tool to kill the pest seaweed.“This contract has been awarded to Advanced Aquarium Tech who aim to create a cost-effective option to treat exotic invasive caulerpa without needing to deploy SCUBA divers. “It will require minimal labour, operate off a small vessel, and be able to be used at any depth of water from intertidal zones to 40m depth.” The third project, with $1.9 million funding, is a special underwater treatment ‘chamber’ with a frame which covers the area of caulerpa being treated and has curtains to contain chlorine within the specific treatment area. “This chlorine treatment chamber, being developed by Commercial Dive Specialists, will be able to hover over the seabed and pass over rocks and other obstacles without getting stuck.” Exotic caulerpa has been found in nine different locations in the upper North Island over the past three years, and since its initial discovery at Aotea Great Barrier Island, a significant work programme has been underway to understand and contain it, while investigating potential management tools. “No other country has come up with a feasible solution to this pest, but we’re determined to explore every option for future control – particularly methods to remove small, localised infestations or help suppress large areas.”

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Clinical psychology interns boost mental health workforce

LiveNews Publisher

February 26, 2025

Source: New Zealand Government

Mental Health Minister Matt Doocey says a record number of health-funded clinical psychology interns show that the Government’s laser focus on improving the mental health workforce pipeline is working.
“In the first year of growing mental health and addiction capacity under New Zealand’s first dedicated Mental Health Workforce Plan, I am pleased to announce that we’ve increased the number of clinical psychology students receiving Health New Zealand-funded internships to 59, up from 41 in 2023 before the Government’s work commenced,” Mr Doocey says.
“While this represents 55 full-time equivalent (FTE) clinical psychology internships as some interns are part-time, we will continue to be ambitious in growing the mental health and addiction workforce. We have committed to growing the number of funded internships to 70 in 2026 and 80 in 2027.”
Mr Doocey says the Government is committed to doubling the number of funded clinical psychologist internships, from 40 in 2023 to 80 in 2027.
“Each year hundreds of university students graduate with Psychology degrees. But because there is such a constrained pathway to working clinically, we are missing out on an opportunity to better meet the needs of one of our biggest skills shortages in the mental health workforce.”
Mr Doocey met with some of the interns today who are also benefiting from the recently piloted clinical psychology hub in Waikato. The hubs coordinate with a number of different services to help the interns experience different environments in which clinical psychologists work.
“We are doing what’s needed to ensure that psychology students have placements to further their studies and careers, and to ensure that Kiwis can get the right help and support they need, when they need it.
“We are also developing an associate psychologist role, so that from the start of next year there are more pathways for psychology students to utilise their skills.
“New Zealanders deserve timely access to mental health and addiction support and I’m pleased that our initiatives are already helping people, so that they can thrive and be supported to have the quality of life that they deserve.”

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Northland News – $6.2M Northland exotic Caulerpa funding welcomed

LiveNews Publisher

February 26, 2025

Source: Northland Regional Council

News the Northland Regional Council will receive more than $6M in government funding for groundbreaking work to tackle invasive exotic Caulerpa seaweed is being welcomed even as news comes it has spread to nearby Urupukapuka, Motukiekie and Moturua Islands.

Biosecurity Minister Andrew Hoggard announced yesterday (subs: Tues 25 Feb) the council had been awarded $6.2 million to progress its large-scale mechanical suction dredging technique centred on Omakiwi Cove, Te Rāwhiti in the Bay of Islands, about 3km from Urupukapuka.

The funding news comes as authorities reveal exotic Caulerpa has been found recently at Paradise Bay, on the western side of Urupukapuka, at Army/Waiwhapuku Bay (off Moturua Island) as well as at the southern end of Motukiekie Island (west of Urupukapuka.)

Council chair Geoff Crawford says the exotic Caulerpa was discovered after a member of the public reported what they thought was the seaweed on an anchor at Paradise Bay earlier this month.

Since then, the council had been diving around the island and working hard with Biosecurity New Zealand to try to determine the extent of the seaweed’s spread and ensure the most effective response. (Previous dives of the area – as recently as April last year – had not revealed any exotic Caulerpa.)

Chair Crawford says it is still not clear how the exotic Caulerpa had spread there, but likely possibilities included hitching a ride with an unsuspecting yachtie or boatie, or natural dispersal from another site.

“While this latest development is very concerning, our focus is on ensuring we continue to develop the tools that can fight exotic Caulerpa – without these we haven’t any effective response.”

He says ongoing government investment in new technologies is critical and with that in mind the council is grateful to Government for the funding announced yesterday.

“It gives us a chance to remove exotic Caulerpa at scale and prevent the further spread – and the devastating effects – of it.”

The Minister’s announcement details projects that are financed by a $10 million funding injection last year aimed at driving improvements to technology and getting new tools in the water.

Chair Crawford says the funding will enable the council to continue an existing relationship with Ōpua-based marine contractor Johnson Bros, which has been working with the council and local mana whenua partners Ngāti Kuta and Patukeha hapū to remove exotic Caulerpa in Omakiwi Cove.

The relationship saw Andrew Johnson last year develop a world-first large-scale suction dredge technology system, essentially vacuuming the seaweed from the sea floor, using a digger on a barge sporting a custom-built dredge head. (That technology was used to treat approximately two hectares of exotic Caulerpa – discovered there in May 2023 – over six months last year.)

The latest funding will allow development of a new tool called a ‘submersible dredge planer’ (SDP) which will operate remotely on the seafloor and aims to remove exotic Caulerpa in a single pass.

The new system will include a remotely operated SDP, dredge head, pumping arrangement, GPS position system, dredge spoil processing plant, and disposal system.

Chair Crawford says the advantage of an SDP over the current barge system is it has the ability to move more quickly, accurately and easily across the sea floor under its own power. Additionally, it is less likely to be affected by poor weather conditions.

“While work on the concept is still in the development phase, it’s expected that the tool will be operationally tested at Omakiwi from September.”

Chair Crawford says the council appreciated the ongoing and tireless efforts of Ngāti Kuta and Patukeha hapū who had worked closely with authorities since exotic Caulerpa’s original discovery in Northland.

“Our mana whenua partners have been informed of the latest discovery, and we look forward to continuing these relationships as we collectively work to deal with the latest find.”

He says it is too soon to say what management approach will be taken as a result of the find at Urupukapuka Island, which is about 7km from Paihia and a popular destination for yachties and other holidaymakers.

“The council is liaising with Biosecurity New Zealand on the appropriate measures to take.”

In the meantime, boaties and fishers are urged to be cautious when using the affected areas as they have a key role in avoiding the spread of this pest.

Chair Crawford says exotic Caulerpa can get snagged on anchors, chains and dive and fishing gear and be accidentally moved to new locations.

He says there are a few simple actions people can take to avoid this.

“When out at sea – before leaving a location, check your vessel’s anchor and anchor chain, and any equipment you’ve used in the water for any tangled seaweed.” “If you have an automatic retrieval system, still look out for any attached pieces of seaweed.”

He says if any type of seaweed is found, it should be removed, bagged or contained securely so it can’t get back into the water and taken ashore for disposal in a rubbish bin.

“If you can’t securely contain it so it can’t get back into the water – put it back into the water it came from.”

If someone finds they’ve picked up seaweed when they arrived back at shore, they should remove it and put it in the rubbish.

Chair Crawford says suspected sightings of exotic Caulerpa – including any washed up on beaches – should be reported to Biosecurity New Zealand.

“Take a photo, if possible, and note the location then either call them on freephone (0800) 809 966 or complete the online form at: report.mpi.govt.nz “

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Education – Charter School Agency announces new application round

LiveNews Publisher

February 26, 2025

Source: Charter School Agency

Applications for the next tranche of charter schools open today (26.2), just weeks after the first seven charter schools were established, Charter School Agency Chief Executive Jane Lee announced today.

“There are two different routes for opening charter schools. Some are new schools addressing specific needs that aren’t being met in our education network. Others are existing state schools that want to operate in a more flexible way,” Ms Lee says.

“State or state integrated schools interested in converting to charter schools are invited to express their interest ahead of receiving information on what the change will mean for their school. They’ll receive support to help them meet all statutory requirements, including consultation with their school communities, staff and students.”

State schools that want to convert to charter schools in 2026, have a 11 April deadline to complete their EOI documents. New application dates will be released each term for schools who want to apply to convert to state schools at a later date.

New school applicants must complete the EOI forms by 24 March 2025.

“Competition for opening new charter schools is very strong,” Ms Lee says. “We have already seen the opening of seven diverse schools delivering to a range of communities. Our aim is to build a lasting network of schools that will support and improve the state school system.”

Ms Lee says to expand this network, the Authorisation Board – which approves new charter school sponsors – will consider factors such as community needs, school size, location, and type. It will also welcome applications from charter schools offering distance or online education.

Information about the application process is on our website: https://www.charterschools.govt.nz/

MIL OSI

Warrant to arrest – Michael McRae

LiveNews Publisher

February 26, 2025

Source: New Zealand Police (District News)

Police are seeking Michael Kane McRae, 44, who has a warrant for his arrest.

We believe Mr McRae will be able to assist with our investigation into several arsons at churches in Masterton on the morning of Saturday 22 February.

We also wish to reiterate our appeal issued yesterday for information about a green Ford Festiva, which was seen leaving one of those fires.

Anyone with information about Michael McRae or sightings of this vehicle is urged to contact Police via 105 online or the 105 phone reporting line, referencing file number 250222/1673.

ENDS

Issued by Police Media Centre

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Appeal for information in relation to historical sexual offending

LiveNews Publisher

February 26, 2025

Source: New Zealand Police (District News)

Attributable to Detective Senior Sergeant Karen Simmons, Canterbury Metro Police:

Police acknowledge the lifting of name suppression for Rowan Maxwell Donoghue, 68-years-old, who is due to appear in Christchurch District Court on 10 March charged with historical sexual offending against young people during the years 1996 – 2000.

Police encourage any person to come forward that has information about Mr Donoghue that could be relevant to the investigation. Mr Donoghue held a number of positions of responsibility involving young people for many years, including prior to the years in which the alleged offending took place.

We understand incidents of this kind are traumatic and can be difficult to discuss with anyone, including Police. We wish to offer reassurance that you will be treated with dignity and respect, we have detectives dedicated to this case and we will ensure you have a safe space to report offending in confidence.

You can make a report at your local Police station or contact Police on 105 online referencing file number: 230122/3143.

Additionally, we want to ensure that anyone who has suffered and is not in a position to speak with us to know there is help and support available.

We encourage seeking help through the Rape Crisis Line, 0800 883 300, or the National Sexual Harm Helpline, 0800 044 334.

ENDS

Issued by Police Media Centre

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On the road again – rebuilding a section of SH1 at Topuni

LiveNews Publisher

February 26, 2025

Source: New Zealand Transport Agency

Contractors will begin work to rebuild a section of State Highway 1 at Topuni, north of Old North Road, tomorrow (Thursday 27 February).

Work is expected to be completed by Thursday 17 April. The first five weeks (until approx. Wednesday 2 April) will be day works, between 6.30am and 5.30pm, while the final two weeks will be undertaken at night, between 5.30pm and 6.30am.

During work hours, the road will be down to a single lane with stop/go traffic management and a 30km/h temporary speed limit in place. Outside work hours, the road will reopen to two lanes with a temporary speed limit in place.

Travel delays during these works are expected to be approximately 5 mins and people are asked to plan ahead.

Please be patient and treat our crews with kindness and respect. Reduce your speed, adhere to the temporary speed limits and follow the directions of traffic management staff and signs.

Rebuilding the road, which often involves replacing all or most of the structural road layers, improves the longevity of the network, the resilience and ultimately the safety and efficiency for all road users.

This summer maintenance period (September 2024 to May 2025), we’re investing in the largest road rebuild programme ever for the region, with Northland one of three regions across Aotearoa with the most significant road rebuild programmes over the next three years. 

This work is weather dependent and there may be changes to the planned works in the case of unsuitable weather. Please visit the NZTA Journey Planner website for up-to-date information on these works, including any changes due to weather:

For more information about the overall maintenance programme and planned works, visit the Northland State Highway Maintenance Programme website:

You can now sign up to receive email updates on upcoming road maintenance:

NZTA thanks everyone for their understanding and support while we carry out this essential maintenance to improve the safety and efficiency of Northland’s state highway network.

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Stats NZ information release: Tourism satellite account: Year ended March 2024

LiveNews Publisher

February 26, 2025

Source: Statistics New Zealand

Tourism satellite account: Year ended March 2024 – 26 February 2025 – Tourism satellite account (TSA) provides an overview of tourism’s role in New Zealand, highlighting the changing levels and impact of tourism activity. It presents information on tourism’s contribution to the economy in terms of expenditure and employment.

This release covers provisional figures for the year ended March 2024 and detailed results for 2023.

Key provisional estimates

For the year ended March 2024 (expressed in nominal terms):

total tourism expenditure was $44.4 billion, up 14.6 percent ($5.6 billion) from 2023
international tourism expenditure was up 59.9 percent ($6.3 billion) to $16.9 billion, returning to levels similar to 2019 ($17.2 billion)
- international student expenditure (studying less than 12 months) was $3.8 billion, up 76.2 percent ($1.6 billion)
- GST from international tourists totalled $1.7 billion, up $689 million
- international tourism’s contribution to total exports of goods and services was 17.2 percent, up 6.0 percentage points
overseas visitor arrivals to New Zealand increased 44.8 percent to 3,183,376
domestic tourism expenditure decreased 2.5 percent ($697 million) to $27.5 billion
- household tourism expenditure decreased 5.8 percent ($1.3 billion)
- business and government expenditure increased 8.4 percent ($559 million)
tourism’s direct contribution to GDP was $17.0 billion (4.4 percent of GDP), up 16.0 percent ($2.3 billion)
indirect value added of industries supporting tourism was $11.7 billion (3.1 percent of GDP)
the number of people directly employed in tourism was 182,727, up 13.5 percent (21,729 people)
- the number of tourism employees was 159,030, up 13.3 percent (18,624 people)
- the number of tourism working proprietors was 23,697, up 15.1 percent (3,102 people)
- direct tourism employment as a share of the total number of people employed in New Zealand was 6.4 percent.

More details:

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