Interview with Kohei Ohata
Kohei Ohata is one of the most experienced engineers in the space industry. He had worked for several years at Sky Perfect JSAT, a Japanese satellite operator, when 5G networks began to spread worldwide. Kohei saw a strong demand for low-latency circuits and began searching for a system focused on low latency and broadband among a number of planned low-orbit satellite constellations. Thus, his interest in LEO constellations was piqued.
When he started his new job at Rivada Space Networks, he left Japan to live abroad for the first time in his life. This completely new situation proved to be both a challenge and an adventure for him.
Payload Architect
What’s your job at Rivada Space Networks?
I'm working as a Payload Architect. We define the specifications of the satellite to meet the services that Rivada Space Networks aims to provide. Together with the satellite manufacturers, we finalize the specifications to a feasible technical level procurement specification. Managing development and manufacturing schedules is a critical factor to meet the schedule set by the ITU.
What makes you feel excited about Rivada Space Networks?
First of all, I felt that I could make use of my past experience. I can participate from the early stages of the project and contribute to building a solid and practical company organization. And then there is the technical challenge. We are building a system that did not exist before. Now that I am part of the company, I feel more strongly about it.
How did you feel about leaving your home country?
t was a big challenge for me to come here alone, away from my family, to a country where the language, customs and much more are completely different from those in Japan. In fact, I was very anxious when I left Japan, but about a month after my arrival, I gained confidence that I can manage the situation. This change in my state of mind is perhaps the biggest surprise for me. This is all thanks to the support of everyone at Rivada and my family in Japan. I am very grateful.