Kodomo Go!

Mitaka Star and Space Day 2026

Explore astronomy exhibits and experiments in research facilities not normally open to the public. Separate mini-lectures in the 4D2U Dome Theater cover black-hole light and jets, galaxy collisions, dark matter, and the birth of Earth and the Moon.

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Full event details

Dates
2026-10-24
Time
Main event 10:00–17:00; last admission 16:00. Dome sessions: 10:30–11:15, 12:15–13:00, 14:00–14:45 and 15:45–16:30. Stargazing runs until 19:00 if weather permits; it may finish early. In bad weather, the entire event ends at 17:00.
Venue
National Astronomical Observatory of Japan, Mitaka Campus and other participating venues, including the 4D2U Dome Theater
Age
The dome theater is for elementary-school students and older; preschool children cannot enter. Age restrictions for other programs and accompanying-adult arrangements have not been announced.
Price
Not announced
Participation
Advance online application is required for the dome theater by October 5, 2026 at 12:00 noon JST. Up to 4 people per group; a lottery applies if a session exceeds 40 applicants. No same-day places. Results will be emailed by October 16; no automatic email is sent after submission.
Category
Science & technology
Area
Mitaka
Venue setting
Indoor · Outdoor
Address
2-21-1 Osawa, Mitaka, Tokyo
Access
Use public transport; the official event page does not specify routes. Cars and motorcycles cannot enter, and car pick-up or drop-off at the main gate is prohibited. Visitors with disabilities arriving by car can inquire at the rear gate.
Organizer
National Astronomical Observatory of Japan; Astrobiology Center; Institute of Astronomy, University of Tokyo; Graduate University for Advanced Studies
Capacity
40 people per dome session. Capacity for other programs has not been announced.

Editorial introduction

Step inside research facilities that are not normally open to the public and explore astronomy exhibits and experiments. The 4D2U dome mini-lectures cover separate topics in each session: light and jets from black holes, galaxy collisions, dark matter, and the birth of Earth and the Moon.

Full program and participation conditions

Check the organizer for current prices, availability and changes.

Event facts

Date: 2026-10-24
Time: 10:00–17:00; last entry 16:00. If weather permits, observing continues to 19:00.
Venue: National Astronomical Observatory of Japan (NAOJ) Mitaka Campus + University of Tokyo Astronomy Education and Research Center + Hoshi-to-Mori-to-Ehon-no-Ie
Address: 2-21-1 Osawa, Mitaka-shi, Tokyo 181-8588

Confirmed content

  • Normally closed observation / experimental facilities are opened.
  • Astronomy exhibits and introductions to active research.
  • Main lecture theme focuses on solar research across time, with three lectures planned.
  • Mini-talks and astronomical observation.
  • If weather is good, sky observation continues on site until 19:00.

Food / rest

  • Maruberu Observatory cafeteria planned to open around lunch.
  • Snack stalls and food trucks planned.
  • Outdoor benches/lawn and indoor rest areas available.

Transport

  • No private cars or motorcycles.
  • Do not use private-car drop-off at the main gate.
  • Bicycle parking available.
  • Public transport strongly required.
  • Visitors requiring vehicle accommodation for accessibility can consult staff at the rear gate according to the official notice.

Weather

If astronomical observation is impossible, event ends at 17:00. Observing may end earlier depending on conditions.

Unverified information and possible updates

  • Specific participation rules for other programs

Information sources

Research verified on: