On October 1, 2003, the Institute of Space and Astronautical Science (ISAS), the National Aerospace Laboratory of Japan (NAL) and the National Space Development Agency of Japan (NASDA) were merged into one independent administrative institution - Japan Aerospace Exploration Agency (JAXA) - to be able to perform all their activities in the aerospace field as one organization, from basic research and development to utilization. 

JAXA is engaging in various activities to promote research and development in the aerospace field.