[Sendai City, Miyagi Prefecture] It was so much fun and I was so excited! Sendai City Astronomical Observatory Exhibition Room and Museum Shop

The Sendai City Astronomical Observatory has a long history, and 68 years ago, in 1952, Professor Aio Kato of the Faculty of Science at Tohoku University, who became the first director of the observatory at the time, said, ``I wanted to have a regular, sturdy telescope for the children and students. With a strong desire to build a facility, he continued to appeal to educators in the prefecture, and with the formation of an observatory construction committee, construction began in September of the same year at Nishi Park, along the left bank of the Hirose River.

Afterwards, the first planetarium in Tohoku opened in 1962, a solar telescope was installed in 1982, and viewing operations at Nishi Park were ended in 2007.

In July 2008, the Sendai City Astronomical Observatory opened in the current location of Nishikigaoka, Aoba Ward.

What are the highlights of Sendai City Observatory?

Sendai City Observatory is roughly divided into two floors.

One will be an exhibition room and the other will be a planetarium.

What's inside the exhibition room?

The exhibition room is dimly lit, with giant planets from the solar system floating on the ceiling, giving the impression of being separated from time and the outside world.

It is divided into various areas: Earth, Atmosphere, Sun, Galaxy, and Macrospace, and in each area you can learn about the mysteries of the universe in detail through exhibits and experience corners.

For example, in the galaxy area corner called ``See constellations in 3D'', the photos are taken from the side, but can you guess what constellations they are?

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The main hint is that there are 7 main stars, and the constellations that can be seen in winter.

Of course, I won't give you the answer here. Please check it out locally.

In addition, there are five hands-on experience corners in the GEN Science Plaza located in the center of the exhibition room, where children can have hands-on play experiences with famous physicists and astronomers.

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There are also many other exhibits and experiences that cannot be described here, such as a model of the universe conceived in the 16th century.

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There is also an additional charge for the planetarium, but if you check the Sendai City Astronomical Observatory's website, you can watch a variety of movies unique to the planetarium.

I've been to the planetarium many times in the past, and I'm embarrassed to say that I often fell asleep during the screenings because it felt so good.

However, I don't know if it's a soothing effect or what, but after the movie ends, I naturally feel tired.

You need to be prepared to splurge! Fascinating museum shop

The Sendai City Observatory Museum Shop is located on the opposite side of the exhibition room and planetarium.

There are many items that can only be purchased at the museum shop! ! There are so many things I want.

In addition to the space food that everyone is interested in, there are also space-themed lights and interior decorations, as well as towels and T-shirts, so no matter how much money you have, you won't be disappointed.

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It's no wonder that some people come to the Sendai Astronomical Observatory just for the museum shop.

I was at a loss as to what I wanted, but since I was living on pocket money, I only did the Gacha Gacha.

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Maybe it's because I'm a boy, but when I come to a place like this, I feel like I have to spend some money...

If you're feeling hungry, check out the reception at "Sora Cafe"!

There is also a space where you can have a snack at the Sendai City Astronomical Observatory.

It's a food van type snack shop, but don't be fooled; the food here is quite authentic and delicious.

On this day, I ordered a pepper sandwich and hot coffee as a sandwich set, and the bread was baked right after I ordered it, so the taste was quite authentic.

There are tables and chairs next to Sora Cafe, so it's a good place to take a short break.

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As expected, eating and drinking is prohibited in the exhibition rooms and planetarium, but if you're feeling hungry, we recommend it!

summary

From the perspective of the people of Miyagi Prefecture, the Sendai City Observatory has a long history and is representative of the prefecture, as everyone has visited it at least once.

The exhibits and planetarium are constantly evolving, making it a fun place to visit anytime.

It's a highly recommended place not only for families with children, but also for stopping by on your own!

Sakunami and Akiu Onsen are also nearby!