In December 2022, Tenchijin launched its new ‘Space Big Data Rice’ cultivated with the help of climate adaption technologies.
Using images and data captured by satellites, Tenchijin Compass – a land evaluation engine – can identify suitable plots of land and help farmers plan their seasonal operations accordingly, allowing them to adapt to changing conditions due to climate change. The project was the result of a collaboration between several organisations, including JAXA (Japan’s space agency) and the Japanese government.
Rice plays a fundamental role in Japanese culture, yet climate change has negatively impacted production in recent years. The project involved collecting and analysing large amounts of data from satellites, including information on weather patterns, soil moisture, and crop growth. This data was then used to create detailed maps of rice paddies and to develop new cultivation techniques that could improve yields and reduce environmental impacts. JAXA provided satellite imagery and technical support, while the Japanese government provided funding for the project and helped to coordinate with local farmers and agricultural organisations.
The rice was available for sale at Shinmei’s store ‘Komedokoro Yondaime Masuya’ and at the ‘Space Shop’ which sells space food and space goods, and there are plans to expand the yield in 2023.
The Tenchijin Big Data Rice project offers a key example of how space technology and big data can be used to address real-world challenges and support sustainable development.
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