About

Facility

Okayama Observatory is jointly operated by the Astronomical Observatory at Kyoto University and the National Astronomical Observatory of Japan (NAOJ). Established in 2018, it serves as a cutting-edge facility for astronomical observation and houses the largest optical-infrared reflecting telescope with a 3.8-meter aperture in Japan, nicknamed "SEIMEI".

Short History of Facility Establishment

Okayama Observatory was established through the collaboration amongst Kyoto University, NAOJ, and Nagoya University. The project aims to provide young researchers with advanced observational opportunities and to build a state-of-the-art foundation for challenging and developmental research through the telescope and observatory construction. The development and operation of the telescope have been supported by generous donations from many individuals, including Dr. Hiroshi Fujiwara, as well as substantial support from universities, industries, corporate researchers, and engineers.

Location

Okayama Observatory is located on Mt. Chikurinji (elevation 372 meters), spanning Asakuchi City and Yakage Town. This region is bordered by Shikoku Island and the Chugoku Mountains, which block moist air from the Pacific Ocean and the Japan Sea, respectively. Consequently, Okayama is one of the best astronomical observation sites, boasting a high rate of clear and stable skies with minimal atmospheric turbulence. The facility is adjacent to the Subaru Telescope Okayama Branch, NAOJ, which operates several telescopes, including the 1.9-meter telescope.

Scientific and Technical Objectives

The main scientific objectives are to deeply investigate transient phenomena such as supernovae and stellar flares using abundant observation time and to detect exoplanets through direct imaging with extreme-adaptive optics leveraging the excellent developmental environment of the facility. The main technical objectives are to obtain cutting-edge technologies for manufacturing telescope mirrors, high-speed segmented-mirror control, and ultra-lightweight telescope mounts.

Current Usage

The facility is utilized 24 hours a day, 365 days a year for scientific research and the technical development of telescopes and instruments by observatory staff, researchers, and students from Kyoto University. It is also used through the NAOJ open-use programs, benefiting universities and research institutions nationwide.