Understand Cosmic Observation Event at Nagoya City Science Museum

The Nagoya City Science Museum, located at 2-17-1 Sakae, Naka-ku, Nagoya, is hosting an event titled "Understanding Cosmic Observation" seeking participants. This lecture uses the familiar "Doppler effect" as an entry point to explore the crucial role of "wave properties" in observing the distant universe, investigating through both experiments and theory. It particularly focuses on the "Cosmic Microwave Background (CMB)," the oldest light in the universe, and delves into the surprising mechanisms by which its slight temperature fluctuations reveal the amount of dark matter and the properties of dark energy accelerating cosmic expansion.

The latter part of the lecture will deeply explore "CMB polarization observation," a key challenge in modern cosmology research. It will comprehensively introduce the fascinating aspects of CMB polarization observation, including "E-modes" appearing from light polarization patterns and "B-modes," spiral patterns that search for traces of "inflation" (rapid expansion) immediately after the Big Bang. This is a valuable opportunity to engage with cutting-edge research, starting from everyday physical phenomena and leading to the grand puzzle-solving that determines the fate of the universe.

This event is aimed at intellectually curious junior high and high school students who wish to learn fundamental physics from the ground up, experience the profound science behind the universe, and understand the themes that researchers are actually working on. Parent or guardian accompaniment is permitted under certain conditions. The capacity is limited to 16 participants, and selection will be by lottery if applications exceed the number of spots. Participation is free, but visitors aged high school and above will require admission to the science museum.

Event Details:

• Title: Understanding Cosmic Observation
• Date & Time: September 12, 2026 (Saturday), 1:00 PM - 4:00 PM
• Venue: Nagoya City Science Museum, Life Science Building 6F Laboratory
• Target Audience: Junior high 1st year to high school 3rd year students (Parent/guardian accompaniment allowed; one adult guardian per participant)
• Capacity: 16 participants (Lottery if oversubscribed)
• Fee: Free (Admission fee required for high school students and above)
• Application Deadline: August 31, 2026 (Monday)
• Organizers: Kobayashi-Maskawa Institute for the Origin of Particles and the Universe, Nagoya University; Nagoya City Science Museum

How to Apply:

Applications can be submitted via the Nagoya City E-Application Service (search for "わかった気になる宇宙観測") or directly to the Nagoya City Science Museum. Early application is recommended as spots are limited. For inquiries regarding the event, please contact the Nagoya City Science Museum at TEL: 052-201-4486. Before attending, please check the official website for the latest information on admission fees and application procedures.

Access:

• Venue Address: 2-17-1 Sakae, Naka-ku, Nagoya, Aichi Prefecture
• Nearest Station: JR Nagoya Station / Subway Sakae Station

The Nagoya City Science Museum is an indoor facility, allowing participation regardless of weather. Visitors can also enjoy other exhibits, such as VR exhibits and the planetarium. This lecture promises to be a highly stimulating experience for junior and senior high school students, approaching the grand mysteries of the universe with a scientific perspective.