Gunma Astronomical Observatory

In the village of Takayama, in Japan's Gunma Prefecture, Gunma Astronomical Observatory has combined serious research with public stargazing since 1999.

About Gunma Astronomical Observatory

Established by Gunma Prefecture and designed by architect Arata Isozaki, the observatory pairs a full-scale research facility with programmes aimed at the public, and it draws the highest visitor numbers of any night observatory in Japan.

History

The observatory was founded in April 1999. The surrounding village of Takayama had already taken steps to protect its dark skies, passing a Lighting Environmental Ordinance in 1998 to limit light pollution ahead of the observatory's opening.

Telescopes & research

Its centrepiece is a 1.5-metre reflecting telescope, which was the largest telescope in Japan applicable to public stargazing when it was built in 1999. The observatory carries out astronomical research alongside its public education work.

Location & getting there

Gunma Astronomical Observatory is located in Takayama village, Agatsuma District, in Gunma Prefecture, central Japan. Use the map on this page for exact coordinates and directions.

Visiting Gunma Astronomical Observatory

The observatory is open to the public for stargazing sessions and tours; check its official website for current hours, admission, and booking details before visiting.

See your named star from here

Takayama's protected dark skies and the observatory's 1.5-metre telescope make it a genuinely good spot to look for a star named through Star Register. Name a star to get its coordinates, or explore the star catalogue before you visit.