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National Astronomical Observatory of Japan

Subaru Telescope National Astronomical Observatory of Japan


The Subaru Telescope, situated atop the summit of Maunakea in Hawaii, stands as one of the premier astronomical observatories in the world. Owned and operated by the National Astronomical Observatory of Japan (NAOJ), the Subaru Telescope boasts a massive primary mirror measuring 8.2 meters in diameter.

This cutting-edge facility, named after the Japanese star cluster Pleiades (Subaru in Japanese), has been at the forefront of astronomical research since its inauguration in 1999. Its strategic location on Maunakea, one of the best astronomical observing sites globally, allows the Subaru Telescope to capture clear and high-resolution images of celestial objects across a wide range of wavelengths.

The telescope is equipped with a suite of advanced instruments and cameras, enabling scientists to explore various astronomical phenomena, from distant galaxies and quasars to our own solar system's objects. Its adaptive optics system helps mitigate the blurring effects of Earth's atmosphere, enhancing the telescope's ability to produce crisp and detailed images.

The Subaru Telescope is a crucial player in international collaborations and has contributed significantly to our understanding of the cosmos, providing valuable data and insights that contribute to the advancement of astrophysics.

In addition to its scientific contributions, the Subaru Telescope has been a hub for educational outreach and community engagement, hosting programs and events to share the wonders of astronomy with the public. Its commitment to both scientific excellence and public education underscores the Subaru Telescope's significance in the world of astronomy and its broader impact on the global community of researchers and stargazers alike.

National Astronomical Observatory of Japan
National Astronomical Observatory of Japan

A 52 Weeks of Fun Fascinating Fact about Subaru Telescope National Astronomical Observatory of Japan

Engineers developed a unique material known as "zerodur," a specialized glass-ceramic composite with extremely low thermal expansion properties and an engineering feat of its kind. This material helps maintain the telescope mirror's shape and alignment under different temperature conditions.

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