The National Space Development Agency of Japan (NASDA) was established on 1 October 1969, under the National Space Development Agency Law, to act as the nucleus for the development of space and promote the peaceful use of space. NASDA was responsible for based on the Japanese Space Development Program enacted by the Minister of Education, Culture, Sports, Science and Technology (MEXT): Development of satellites (including space experiments and the space station) and launch vehicles, launching and tracking the craft. Development of methods, facilities and equipment required for the above.