Max Robotics — Global Service Robot Directory + US Certification

About

Yoshiaki Ohkami is a pioneering robotics and aerospace engineer whose research has profoundly shaped the field of space robotics, particularly in the areas of orbital manipulation, satellite capture, and spacecraft control. Working extensively with NASDA (Japan's National Space Development Agency), Ohkami has dedicated his career to solving one of space exploration's most pressing challenges: the autonomous capture and recovery of uncontrolled or malfunctioning satellites and orbital debris. His most influential contributions include micro-gravity experimentation with reconfigurable space robotic arms — validated through real parabolic flight tests (61 citations) — and the development of rotational motion-damping systems for capturing tumbling satellites (51 citations). His coordinated control frameworks for spacecraft attitude and onboard manipulators (49 citations) established foundational methodologies still referenced in space robotics research today. Ohkami also made significant advances in fly-by approach guidance and collision-avoidance trajectory planning for uncontrolled rotating targets, addressing both the technical and safety dimensions of orbital rendezvous missions. Collectively accumulating over 270 citations, his body of work spans theoretical control systems, hardware testbed development, and real-world mission applications, making him an essential figure for any researcher exploring space manipulation, on-orbit servicing, or debris remediation technologies.