A Life-Changing Encounter with Electromagnetic Waves
Smartphones, computers,GPS—these technologies are essential to our daily lives. Yet few of us realize that they all rely on invisible waves known as electromagnetic radiation, or radio waves. When Associate Professor Ozaki first entered technical college, they hadn’t given much thought to how these devices actually worked. Like most people, they simply used them as convenient tools. Everything changed when Associate Professor Ozaki took a class on electromagnetic waves. It was their first real encounter with the science behind the technology—and it left a lasting impression. The idea that radio waves could be used to gather information from places unimaginably far away, such as outer space, was nothing short of astonishing. Equally impactful was the teacher who taught that class—a former member of Japanese Antarctic Research Expedition. Inspired by the teacher’s passion and experience, Associate Professor Ozaki had the opportunity to work on analyzing aurora data collected in Antarctica. This hands-on experience sparked a deeper curiosity. Over time, Associate Professor Ozaki’s interest evolved. Rather than focusing solely on the immediate environment observed by spacecraft and satellites, they became fascinated by the possibility of using electromagnetic waves to explore vast regions of space that these instruments cannot directly reach. This desire to understand the broader universe continues to drive Associate Professor Ozaki’s research today.
Revealing the Magnetic Environment of Space Through Aurora Observations
Associate Professor Ozaki specializes in electromagnetic wave measurement engineering, a field that not only focuses on how to measure electromagnetic waves with high precision, but also leverages their ability to travel great distances to extract information from faraway regions—such as the density and temperature of plasma drifting through space. While affiliated with Kanazawa University, Associate Professor Ozaki participated in Japanese Antarctic Research Expedition, where they joined a team dedicated to aurora observation. Using electromagnetic waves, they worked to detect auroras that are invisible to the naked eye or difficult to observe during daylight hours. Although the exact mechanisms behind aurora formation remain partially unknown, research has shown that disturbances in the space magnetic field environment play a significant role. In today’s world, where the electronic communication industry is highly advanced, the influence of space weather—including magnetic field fluctuations—on our daily lives is far from negligible. Associate Professor Ozaki is passionate about the full spectrum of this research: how to measure the space magnetic field environment with precision using electromagnetic waves, how to accurately analyze and interpret the data obtained, and how to uncover new scientific insights from these findings. Associate Professor Ozaki believes that engaging with all aspects of this process is essential to advancing our understanding of the universe.
Expanding Satellite Services — Contributing to Better Communication Technologies
Although space stations and satellites have greatly advanced our understanding of the space environment, many mysteries remain unsolved. As we move into the 2030s, international efforts are underway to launch crewed missions to the Moon and Mars, and competition in space exploration and satellite-based communication industries is expected to intensify. “The competition is global—and it’s fierce,” says Associate Professor Ozaki. Recognizing this, they have actively pursued international collaboration, engaging in joint research projects and welcoming researchers from abroad. Associate Professor Ozaki emphasizes the importance of creating an environment where researchers from both Japan and overseas can engage in meaningful discussion. “Such exchanges often reveal new perspectives and ideas that we might not have noticed otherwise,” he explains. This commitment to open dialogue and global cooperation is a cornerstone of Associate Professor Ozaki’s approach to advancing space science.
Despite remarkable advances in space exploration, launching satellites still requires significant time and cost. Associate Professor Ozaki’s research aims to overcome these challenges by developing high-performance, ultra-compact observation instruments that are both cost-effective and efficient. The day when such devices are deployed aboard satellites and operate in distant regions of space may not be far off. “I want to apply the knowledge and technologies I’ve cultivated over the years to contribute to the growing field of satellite services,” says Associate Professor Ozaki with enthusiasm. His goal is to help deliver better services, such as strengthening communication infrastructure by miniaturizing and mobilizing ground stations—making it easier to maintain connectivity during disasters or in remote areas.
(Yuko MITERA, Science Writer)
PAGE TOP