Guide
The NAOJ Mitaka Campus serves as the headquarters for the National Astronomical Observatory of Japan (NAOJ). This central hub oversees observation facilities both within Japan and internationally, driving astronomical research, the development of new observational instruments, and the education of graduate students. The campus also houses research and educational facilities for the Graduate University for Advanced Studies and the Astronomy Education and Research Center of the Graduate School of Science at the University of Tokyo, making it a significant academic center.
For the general public, certain facilities are open for viewing without a prior reservation. The campus also hosts regular or occasional events utilizing its telescopes and digital theater. It is a rare opportunity to witness the very front lines of astronomical research and technological development.
The Mitaka Campus has a history deeply intertwined with the development of Japanese astronomy. The grounds include architectural structures dating back to the Taisho and Showa eras, some of which are designated as Registered Tangible Cultural Properties of Tokyo. Beyond its role as a research facility, it holds significant cultural value as a symbol of Japan's scientific and technological progress.
Additionally, the campus is home to the 'Calendar Computation Office,' which performs highly precise tasks such as determining leap seconds in collaboration with the National Institute of Information and Communications Technology (NICT), utilizing data from facilities like the Mizusawa VLBI Observatory. This site represents a long-standing history of high-level scientific-work that supports the very standards of time used globally.
The campus features various facilities and exhibits related to astronomy. Through events held in the digital theater, visitors can experience the vastness of space and deepen their astronomical knowledge. The site also serves as a professional hub, housing the Astronomical Information Center for celestial discoveries and consultation desks for astronomical inquiries.
Note that visiting areas are limited to specific sections of the campus. It is helpful to check the provided maps to understand the layout of the facilities. During special event periods, you may encounter exhibitions involving the campus telescopes or the latest astronomical technologies.
Activities at the NAOJ Mitaka Campus primarily take place during daylight hours. When specific public events or programs are held, such as digital theater presentations or celestial observations, it is essential to check the official website in advance for the schedule. The environment is well-suited for exploring the fundamentals of astronomy and the latest research findings regardless of the season.
During your visit, you may be able to use educational materials such as 'Visit Worksheets' designed for elementary school students (please verify availability on-site). These tools help provide a more concrete understanding of the role of the NAOJ and the field of astronomy. Additionally, the campus grounds are available for public use via a reservation-based, paid system. The atmosphere is a unique blend of a serious research institution and an open space for scientific engagement with the community.
The Mitaka Campus is located in Mitaka City, Tokyo. It is accessible via bus routes from several nearby stations, including Musashi-Sakai, Chofu, Mitaka, Musashi-Koganei, and Komae. The surrounding area features residential neighborhoods and cultural facilities, making it easy to enjoy a coffee or a stroll in a nearby park after your scientific exploration.
