Mahoroba Hydrogen Fuel Cell Ship Debuts, Connecting Central Osaka and Expo Site in 60 Minutes

OSAKA, Jan 30 (News On Japan) - The hydrogen fuel cell ship "Mahoroba," designed to connect central Osaka with the Expo venue in Yumeshima in approximately 60 minutes, was unveiled to the media ahead of its commercial launch during the Expo period.

Developed by Iwatani Corporation, "Mahoroba" operates by generating electricity through a reaction between hydrogen and oxygen from the air, propelling its motor without emitting carbon dioxide, making it an environmentally friendly choice.

The vessel can accommodate up to 150 passengers and will operate three days a week, transporting visitors between Osaka's Nakanoshima and the Expo site in around 60 minutes. This marks the first time a hydrogen fuel cell ship will be commercially operated in Japan.

Yuichi Sano, Director of Iwatani Corporation's Hydrogen Division, stated, "The ship offers a remarkably quiet environment with no vibrations or odors, enhancing the excitement of traveling to the Expo."

Details regarding ticket prices and purchasing methods are expected to be announced shortly.

Source: 産経ニュース

Mt. Fuji Sets Up Permanent Gate

A permanent gate has been installed at the Yamanashi Prefecture entrance to the fifth station of Mt. Fuji, unveiled on June 13. Authorities hope the new measure will help address the ongoing problem of reckless climbing attempts.

Otaru Redevelopment Plan Effectively Frozen

A former resort area in the Otamoi district of Otaru City has hit a major roadblock in its redevelopment plans. "This is the Otamoi coastline," explained a Ryugu Cruise guide. "There used to be a building here called Ryugukaku, a high-end restaurant. It's hard to believe."

Japan Approves Pension Reform

The Pension System Reform Law was passed and enacted at the Upper House plenary session on June 13th with majority support from the Liberal Democratic Party, Komeito, the Constitutional Democratic Party and others.

Holding an Umbrella While Cycling to be Outlawed

Riding a bicycle while holding an umbrella, a practice often seen during the rainy season in Japan, poses significant danger as it becomes more frequent with the arrival of June rains.

Japan Moves to Grant Science Council Autonomy

The Diet has passed legislation to establish the Science Council of Japan as an independent corporation, separating it from direct government control.

MEDIA CHANNELS

MORE Sci-Tech NEWS

Technologies Poised to Drive Future Growth

A new ranking of 'technologies that are attracting investment' has just been published, with an analysis of some of the most promising innovations.

Pioneering Technology That Expands Human Potential

Masahiko Inami, professor and deputy director at the University of Tokyo’s Research Center for Advanced Science and Technology, is leading groundbreaking research into human augmentation—technology that expands human capabilities beyond natural limitations. Inspired by science fiction and driven by a vision of a more inclusive and creative future, Inami’s work aims not only to assist those with physical challenges but to elevate all individuals through the integration of new skills and sensory functions.

Japan’s Private Moon Landing Attempt Ends in Failure Again

Japan’s bid for a successful private-sector moon landing has ended in failure for the second time, after startup ispace announced that it lost communication with its lunar lander Resilience during the final descent.

Kyoto Researchers Launch Final Trial for Alzheimer’s Drug

Kyoto University's Center for iPS Cell Research and Application (CiRA) and pharmaceutical company Towa announced they began the final phase of clinical trials in May, aiming to treat Alzheimer’s disease using an existing medication.

Shizuoka Clears Final Water Hurdle for Linear Project as Implementation Phase Begins

A Shizuoka Prefecture expert panel overseeing environmental issues linked to the Linear Chuo Shinkansen project met on June 2nd and concluded all discussions related to water resources, ending over a decade of debate. Deputy Governor Hiraki described the outcome as "a major step forward."

JAXA Prepares New Unmanned Supply Craft for ISS Delivery

The Japan Aerospace Exploration Agency (JAXA) on June 2nd unveiled its new unmanned cargo spacecraft, the HTV-X, at the Tanegashima Space Center in Kagoshima Prefecture. Designed to transport supplies to the International Space Station (ISS), the HTV-X is undergoing final preparations for launch within fiscal 2025.

Japan’s Healthcare in Crisis, Doctors Overworked as Research Time Dwindles

Amid mounting financial strain and work reform policies, Japan’s university hospitals are struggling to maintain the quality of their medical research, threatening the future of healthcare in the country. A recent survey of approximately 3,000 physicians working in university hospitals revealed that 60% spend less than five hours a week on research, with 22% reporting zero research time. The main reason: they are simply too busy with clinical duties to conduct research.

次世代クラウド保護 ― 「あると便利」から「不可欠」へ

2025年には、クラウドに対する侵害のうち60％以上が設定ミスに起因していました。企業がスケーラビリティやコスト削減のためにクラウドを活用すればするほど、それに伴って新たなセキュリティリスクにさらされる可能性も高まります。

< 2 3 4 5 >