About Public Relations Center
The Public Relations Center (PRC) was created in 1998 to share the latest astronomy research results with the public. We communicate and promote research breakthroughs in a manner that is understandable, relevant, and exciting. For this purpose, we offer a range of services and deliver amazing scientific information through a variety of media including the Web and scientific publications. We have also built an effective partnership with dissemination experts working for public observatories, science museums, and planetariums.
The PRC is continues to disseminate information about the latest results in astronomy; the Japanese calendar and ephemeris and Central Standard Time; protection of the observing environment; and celestial phenomena. For this purpose, the Center consists of the Public Relations Office, Outreach and Education Office, International Astronomical Union (IAU) Office for Astronomy Outreach (OAO), Ephemeris Computation Office, Publications Office, Spectrum Management Office, Time Keeping Office, Office of Historical Archives, and General Affairs Office. Ishigakijima Astronomical Observatory also belongs to the Center, and is working to manage an observatory open to the public and conduct research observations in the southern islands. We also collect information about newly discovered objects and provide astronomical reading materials for the public.
Activities
A 50-cm Telescope for Public Outreach (a forked reflecting telescope) is installed at NAOJ Mitaka Headquarters for the purpose of social education programs including stargazing and observation practice. Regular stargazing parties for the public are offered on the evenings of the fourth Saturday and the Friday before the second Saturday of each month (advance registration required). The Center also supports students who come for practice observations or extracurricular classes.
Responding to telephone inquiries from the public on weekdays. The Center responds to approximately 10,000 questions per year.