Norikura Observatory

Japanese Norikura Observatory, founded in 1953 and attached to ICRR in 1976, is located at 2,770 m above sea level. This observatory provides facilities necessary for preparing for and carrying out cosmic ray experiments at a high altitude throughout the year. Facilities such as accommodations and experimental rooms are made available to all qualified scientists in Japan. Stable electric AC power generated by three dynamos can be supplied anywhere in the observatory. Eight technical staff members now work in shifts to maintain these facilities. Access to this observatory is easy by car or public bus in summer, and even in the winter season WITH the aid of a snowmobile.

The research projects to be executed here are adopted by a steering committee of ICRR every year. At present, the following branches of cosmic ray research are being studied using the facilities at this observatory:

  1. Search for celestial gamma-ray point sources and studies of primary cosmic ray composition in the PeV-energy region.

  2. Study of high-energy cosmic ray modulation and other topics in interplanetary and interstellar space.

  3. Various kinds of short-term experiments.

Norikura Observatory celebrated the 40th anniversary of its foundation on September 25, 1993 at Suzuran in Nagano prefecture. Many guests, including Professor Hiroyuki Yoshikawa, president of the university of Tokyo, delivered congratulatory addresses. More than 100 persons attended to the celebration.

Norikura Observatory in summer

SnoCat


Viewing from the southern side of the Norikura Observatory.
"Corona Observatory" is seen on the northern peak.
Right red roofed is "Asahi Hut".

Viewing towards south from just behind "Asahi Hut".
"Matsumoto plain far down beyond "Kata (i.e. Shoulder) Hut".
People heading for the highest southern summit "Ken-ga-Mine".

Viewing the southern "Asahi Peak" from the east side of the Obs.
Viewing "Ken-ga-Mine" (the left peak) from the north of the Obs.
Viewing toward "Ken-ga-Mine" from north-west of the Obs. Gas is thick.

"Gongen Pond" near the Ken-ga-Mine. Snow remains in Sep.
Alpine plants.
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