Nobeyama radio observatory

Nobeyama Radio Observatory is a research facility nestled in the mountains of Minamimaki dedicated to observing radio waves from space. The site holds a 45-meter-diameter radio telescope alongside an array of additional antennas designed to detect millimeter-wavelength signals from distant cosmic sources.

The facility was established in 1969 and established Japan as a center for radio astronomy research. Since its opening, the installation has contributed to major discoveries about the structure and contents of our galaxy.

Scientists from multiple nations conduct research at this facility, contributing to the understanding of galactic structures and solar phenomena.

The site welcomes visitors throughout the year without any entrance charges. Guided tours and educational programs help explain how the facility operates and its role in modern astronomy.

The telescope here contributed to detecting signs of intermediate-mass black holes near the galactic center. This observation helped astronomers understand the structure of the Milky Way better.

Location: Minamimaki

Inception: October 1969

Elevation above the sea: 1,350 m

Address: 462-2, Ōaza Nobeyama, Minamimaki-mura, Minamisaku-gun, Nagano-ken 384-1305

Website: https://nro.nao.ac.jp

GPS coordinates: 35.94167,138.47583

Latest update: December 7, 2025 20:47