Ask a Scientist! Science Q&A Relay at Miraikan, Odaiba

The National Museum of Emerging Science and Innovation (Miraikan) in Odaiba will host the "Ask a Scientist! Science Q&A Relay" on Saturday, August 8, 2026. This joint event, organized by the Science Council of Japan and Miraikan, offers a unique opportunity for visitors of all ages to engage directly with researchers and science communicators about their scientific curiosities.

Researchers Tackle Your "Why's"

This event invites participants to ask burning questions related to Miraikan's exhibits. Topics range from everyday curiosities like "Why do adults get tired so easily?" to forward-looking inquiries such as "What can be done by creating games with quantum computers?" Leading researchers from the Science Council of Japan, alongside Miraikan's science communicators, will provide engaging and accessible answers. The collaboration ensures a dynamic exchange, addressing the "why's" that spark imagination and learning.

Talk Sessions Based on Exhibits

The event features talk sessions centered around four permanent exhibitions: "Quantum Computer Disco," "Aging Park," "Unread Universe," and "Planetary Crisis – To Live on This Earth." Researchers will delve into the questions and curiosities that visitors have about these exhibits. Each exhibition theme will have two talk sessions throughout the day. Attendees can choose to focus on specific themes or participate in a tour-like experience, moving between sessions. Science communicators will guide participants to the next session after each talk concludes.

Pre-Event Question Submission and Participation

Questions for the researchers can be submitted in advance through a dedicated online form, allowing for more focused discussions. There may also be opportunities to ask questions on the day of the event. Participation is free with admission to Miraikan's permanent exhibition. Sessions are held in front of each exhibit, with a capacity of approximately 15 people per session (standing room only). For those wishing to attend, please proceed directly to the respective exhibit areas on the day of the event.

Event Details

• Event Title: Ask a Scientist! Science Q&A Relay
• Venue: National Museum of Emerging Science and Innovation (Miraikan), 2-3-6 Aomi, Koto-ku, Tokyo
• Date & Time: Saturday, August 8, 2026
  • 14:30-14:45 / 15:20-15:35: Quantum Computer Disco / Unread Universe
  • 14:55-15:10 / 15:45-16:00: Aging Park / Planetary Crisis
• Target Audience: All ages (recommendation for elementary school students and up)
• Admission: Free with Miraikan permanent exhibition admission fee
• Capacity: Approx. 15 people per session (standing only)
• Organizers: Science Council of Japan, National Museum of Emerging Science and Innovation (Miraikan)

Access

• Nearest Stations: Yurikamome Tokyo Big Sight Station / Rinkai Line Kokusai-Tenjijo Station

Footage of the event may be used on the organizers' official websites, social media, and in reports. Please inquire with staff regarding any photography restrictions. Subtitles are available upon request to staff on the day. For information on ticket availability or same-day tickets, please check the official website or contact the venue directly.