🗺️ JAXA Uchinoura Space ObservatoryJAXA内之浦宇宙空間観測所

The rocket launch facility JAXA (Japan Aerospace Exploration Agency), located in the southeastern part of the Ōsumi Peninsula in Kagoshima Prefecture, is an affiliated facility of the University of Tokyo's Institute of Industrial Science. Since its establishment in 1962, it has launched over 400 small rockets, more than 50 artificial satellites and probes, including Japan's first "Ōsumi," and has conducted tracking and data collection activities, making significant contributions to space science research. The buildings equipped with the necessary facilities and equipment for rocket launches are situated on a plateau formed by the undulating terrain of the mountains, making it a unique rocket launch facility in the world. The observatory is open for visits, and facilities such as the rocket launch site and large parabolic antennas offer explanations and guided tours (group tours require prior reservation). The Space Science Museum located in the facility contains a variety of interesting materials that deepen visitors' understanding of space. In recent years, it has gained significant attention for the successful launch of the asteroid probe "Hayabusa" and the Epsilon rocket, making it a recommended sightseeing spot when visiting Kagoshima.

The JAXA rocket launch facility located in the eastern part of the Osumi Peninsula, southeast of Kagoshima Prefecture. Since its establishment in 1962, it has made many important contributions to space science research. Situated on a plateau shaped by the surrounding mountains, it is a unique rocket launch facility in the world. The observatory is open for visits. The Space Science Data Center within the facility displays various materials related to space science research.