KAZUSHI
MOTOMURA
CTO at a satellite remote sensing startup, working on technology development and business initiatives that combine satellite data and AI. Holds a Ph.D. in Informatics.
Studied aerospace engineering as an undergraduate and satellite oceanography at graduate school. After completing a master’s degree, joined the Remote Sensing Technology Center of Japan (RESTEC), working on projects involving a wide range of Japanese and international satellite sensors.
At MOL Information Systems, contributed to the development and implementation of ICT strategies for an international shipping group, leading business-focused AI systems projects from planning through development and deployment.
Subsequently joined Mitsubishi Research Institute, working on the application of AI to satellite data, conducting research on technology and policy developments in Japan and abroad, and developing and implementing R&D plans before moving into the current role.
Alongside professional work, pursued academic research and earned a Ph.D. in Informatics from Yokohama National University in 2026. Contributed entries on object detection and super-resolution to the Japanese-language Encyclopedia of Remote Sensing, published by Maruzen Publishing.
Also independently develops and operates Off-Nadir Delta, a web service that uses satellite data and publicly available information to identify and monitor changes around the world.
Education
2008-2014
Tokai University, Department of Aeronautics and Astronautics, Faculty of Engineering
He majored in aerospace engineering at undergraduate level.
He took advantage of the Japan Aerospace Exploration Agency (JAXA) technical trainee program to conduct research on the heat shield of the space probe "Hayabusa" at the Institute of Space and Astronautical Science (ISAS). He won the best paper award at the time of graduation.
2012-2014
Kyushu University Interdisciplinary Graduate School of Engineering Sciences
Department of Atmospheric and Marine Environmental Systems
In graduate school, he majored in satellite oceanography.
Engaged in research into marine environment analysis, including satellite data, etc. Engaged in observation vessels and field work (land reclamation).
2017-2026
Yokohama National University, Doctoral Program
Ph.D. (Informatics)
We are conducting research on applying AI to satellite data.
Career
2014-2018
Remote Sensing Technology Center (RESTEC)
Solutions Division
As a researcher, he is involved in satellite data-related work both domestically and internationally.
In particular, he is responsible for tasks such as marine monitoring using satellite data.
2018-2019
Mitsui O.S.K. Lines Systems
ICT Strategy Promotion Department (Technology Innovation Headquarters)
As an ICT engineer (AI specialist), he is responsible for managing the offshore development of an AI-based business support system for ocean-going merchant ships, as well as for technical evaluation of venture companies.
2019-2023
Mitsubishi Research Institute
Frontier Technology Headquarters
As a researcher, he is involved in technical research related to satellite data both in Japan and overseas. In particular, he is in charge of projects related to the application of AI technology to satellite data, and is responsible for project implementation, coding, development management, etc.
2023-present
Space Shift
Technology Division
As Chief Technology Officer (CTO), I was responsible for managing the development of AI models for satellite data.