February 2023 Vol. 21 No. 2

View from the Top

• Toru Maruoka, President and Chief Executive Officer, NTT Communications

  

  Abstract
  As a member of the new DOCOMO Group, NTT Communications provides clients with one-stop-shop services and solutions by combining the Group’s resources and offerings under the enterprise-business brand “docomo business.” We interviewed Toru Maruoka, president and chief executive officer of NTT Communications, who is promoting digital transformation in society and industry, about the direction and strategies of NTT Communications.

Front-line Researchers

• Jun-ichi Kani, Senior Distinguished Researcher, NTT Access Network Service Systems Laboratories

  

  Abstract
  In Japan, against the backdrop of the spread of high-definition video-streaming services and network applications such as cloud storage and work applications, the provision of high-speed communication services is gaining pace, and the research and development of optical access networks to support these services is under high expectations. Jun-ichi Kani, a senior distinguished researcher at NTT Access Network Service Systems Laboratories is playing a leading role in researching and developing new optical access networks for the beyond fifth-generation mobile communication system (5G)/6G era. We interviewed him about the progress of his research activities and his approach to research.

Rising Researchers

• Takashi Yamakawa, Distinguished Researcher, NTT Social Informatics Laboratories

  

  Abstract
  The development of quantum computers has been progressing rapidly in recent years based on principles fundamentally different from those of conventional computers. It is known that they can be used to break many of the encryption schemes that are now in actual use. To counter this threat, there is a need for “post-quantum cryptography” that cannot be broken even by quantum computers. In this interview, we asked NTT Distinguished Researcher Takashi Yamakawa to tell about his research in solving such social issues using cryptography.

Feature Articles: Activities toward Zero Environmental Impact and Environmental Adaptation to Build a Resilient Society

• R&D of Innovative Technologies in Space, Environment, and Energy

  

  Abstract
  It has been two years and seven months since NTT Space Environment and Energy Laboratories was established with the aim of creating innovative technologies for regenerating the global environment and achieving a sustainable and inclusive society. During this time, we have proposed many unconventional research themes heretofore nonexistent at NTT laboratories and have been active in establishing specific themes, setting up systems, and bringing people together. At long last, NTT Space Environment and Energy Laboratories is taking shape. This article takes a new look at Earth from the viewpoint of space and describes the current state of various challenges to be met to change the future of the global environment.

• Next-generation Energy Technology Contributing to Zero Environmental Impact

  

  Abstract
  With the aim of building a sustainable society, NTT Space Environment and Energy Laboratories is engaged in research toward the creation of clean and environmentally sound energy and the smart use of energy. In this article, we introduce technologies related to fusion power and space solar power, which are overwhelmingly clean and inexhaustible energy sources, virtual energy demand/supply control technology that makes the most effective use of renewable energy, and next-generation energy supply technology based on highly reliable and highly efficient direct-current power supply systems.

• CO₂ Conversion and Emission-control Technologies toward Carbon Neutrality

  

  Abstract
  This review outlines two technologies contributing to carbon neutrality: (1) efficiently converting atmospheric and oceanic carbon dioxide (CO₂) into organic matter by improving the carbon-fixation capacity of plants and algae, and (2) reducing CO₂ emissions from soil by controlling the organic-matter decomposition induced by microorganisms.

• Technology for Forecasting the Global Environment and Human Society

  

  Abstract
  NTT Space Environment and Energy Laboratories aims to contribute to achieving sustainable corporate growth and a resilient society by proactively adapting to changes in the social and natural environment on the basis of highly accurate forecasts of the global environment and human society. In this article, we introduce two technologies. One is global environmental futures forecasting technology for clarifying Earth’s regeneration process by linking global-scale observations and modeling of the physical, biological, and chemical processes of Earth and simulating these processes. The other is management science and technology on environmental, social, and governance (ESG) for supporting the formulation of corporate ESG management strategies by predicting the future of human society and environmental impact.

• Proactive Environmental Adaptation Technology to Ensure Safe and Secure Living Conditions Even under Extreme Natural Phenomena

  

  Abstract
  NTT Space Environment and Energy Laboratories is developing technologies for humans to proactively adapt to extreme natural phenomena so they can live safely and securely on Earth and in space. We have been developing technologies to protect communication equipment from lightning strikes and cosmic rays. This article introduces lightning control and charging technology and cosmic-ray barrier technology that builds on the technologies we have developed as well as brings about fundamental changes to conventional countermeasures.

Global Standardization Activities

• ITU-T Standardization Activities for Spatial Division Multiplexing Optical Fibers and Maintenance of Outdoor Optical Facilities

  

  Abstract
  International standards related to optical fiber cables and the maintenance of outdoor optical facilities have been developed as ITU-T (International Telecommunication Union - Telecommunication Standardization Sector) Recommendations, the content of which has been discussed in Study Group 15 and revised in accordance with the progress of optical communication systems. We introduce space division multiplexing optical fibers that are expected to become an ultra-high-capacity transmission medium that breaks the communication capacity limit of existing single-mode optical fibers, as well as the standardization trend in the maintenance and operation of outdoor optical facilities, which must be more efficient due to the spread of optical communication services.

Practical Field Information about Telecommunication Technologies

• Remote Field Support by the Technical Assistance and Support Center

  

  Abstract
  The Technical Assistance and Support Center, NTT EAST has been implementing measures to support on-site investigations—which have conventionally been conducted by visiting the site in person—remotely (“remote field support”). This article presents the benefits, requirements, and example implementation of remote field support. This is the seventy-fourth article in a series on telecommunication technologies.

External Awards

• External Awards