International Cooperation in the Exploration and Use of Outer Space: Possibility of Outer Space:Possibility of Japans Contribution

International cooperation has been of vital importance for the successful space exploration and use. Among the many types of international cooperation, this paper is to analyze the assistance and coordination aspects of space applications from the space faring nations with the emphasis on the earth observation and disaster monitoring. After recent developments being explained on the follow-up activities of UNISPACE III, GEOSS 10 Implementation Plan, CEOS, Disaster Charter, etc., Asian developments are to be explored in some depth with the special focus on the APRSAF and APSCO. Based on such study, a certain conclusion would be given with respect to the possibility of Japans contribution.