Space Challenge in GinzaRevealing Secrets of Outer Space with Satellites and Large-Scale Telescope

By shining light from different directions on the object coated with a special film, different-colored rays of light reflect off of or shine through it to paint the space.

Satellites Challenging the Inhospitable Conditions of Outer Space
Satellites have different roles in various areas such as supporting weather forecasts, communications broadcasting, and positional information services. They are now vital to people’s everyday lifestyles and consistent, stable operation is essential. However, outer space presents a much harsher environment than one could ever imagine on Earth, including intense heat and the effects of a vacuum environment and radiation. Even before a satellite reaches outer space, its body and the on-board equipment go through a number of challenges, including shocks and vibrations when the rocket carrying it is launched. Mitsubishi Electric is involved in the production of many satellites capable of withstanding such unforgiving conditions. At METoA Ginza, you can see first-hand how a satellite goes through various challenges before it gets to outer space in the experiential theater. We hope you enjoy the powerful visual imagery, and special floor and sound effects prepared for this event.

Interactive Learning with Digital Globe
In the exhibit area, in addition to the impression of actually looking at Earth from outer space, an interactive feature makes it possible to feel clouds moving in real time and even see how whales migrate. Of vital importance to us is to pass down this beautiful planet to future generations. Please take the time to visit this exhibit and view the beautiful blue-green marble we call Earth from various angles, touching it with your own two hands.

Touch-panel display with a comprehensive lineup of satellites manufactured by Mitsubishi Electric
Mitsubishi Electric has been manufacturing various satellites and platforms for more than a half-century. Here, we offer visitors a look at all of our satellites using a touch-panel display. Using your fingers for control, zoom into the role or launch year of a satellite, and see whether it’s a positioning satellite, communications satellite, meteorological satellite, or earth observation satellite, and what it looks like. Please take a look at how Mitsubishi Electric has evolved as part of Japan’s space exploration program.

Satellite Programs Mitsubishi Electric is involved

Planetarium experience presenting satellites that play active roles in outer space
Various satellites are supporting people’s lives on Earth. Mitsubishi Electric has brought a planetarium dome to METoA Ginza, enabling visitors to enjoy the life-like experience of looking at satellites in outer space. After capturing the marker in the dome using a handheld tablet, outer space appears on the screen. Simply by tapping on a small satellite in the screen, you can zoom in on it and then have a 360° view of it simply by turning it around using your fingers. You are certain to have a relaxing and enjoyable time in this calming environment, where we offer you the rare experience of taking a close-up look at a satellite.

Largest in Japan!^*Let’s climb the 45-meter Radio Telescope at Nobeyama Radio Observatory
The Nobeyama Radio Observatory (NRO), located in Nagano Prefecture, is the home of the largest radio telescope in Japan, jointly developed by Mitsubishi Electric and the National Astronomical Observatory of Japan. Invisible radio waves originating from interstellar gases, which are the materials for star formation, are observed here at the end of their journey. It is also well-known for a groundbreaking achievement: the discovery of a supermassive black hole, the first ever found. In the Virtual Reality zone, you can experience the simulation of climbing this gigantic telescope and showing up on its primary mirror. We hope you will enjoy learning about the overwhelming size and power of this 45m-diameter telescope.

*Among antennas dedicated for radio-wave observation

Let’s visit the Atacama Large Millimeter/submillimeter Array（ALMA）Antenna – Experience a true embellishment in a vast desert!
The Atacama Desert in Chile extends to the Andean Plateau at an altitude of 5,000m above sea level, and is the home of a radio-telescope array consisting of 66 antennas. Known as the ALMA, this telescope is operated through the cooperation of 22 countries and regions, including Japan. Mitsubishi Electric manufactured 16 of the antennas under the responsibility of Japan. By observing radio waves from various celestial objects, ALMA contributes to solve mysteries of the origins of planets and galaxies. Using the virtual reality equipment provided at METoA, visitors can walk around ALMA and enjoy a star-filled night sky, one of the most beautiful views in the world.

Large-scale telescopes Mitsubishi Electric is involved