JAXA Okinawa Tracking and Communications Station

JAXA’s Okinawa Tracking and Communications Station in Onna, Okinawa, was established in 1968 and tracks and controls satellites by receiving radio waves to check their positions, attitudes and onboard equipment, transmitting commands when needed. Visitors can freely explore its exhibition areas, including the first hall on satellite roles, a third hall with a full-scale broadcasting-satellite engineering model, a Space Information Room, Video Room and Environment Corner, plus a 30-metre parabolic antenna. JAXA’s current visitor guidance lists free entry 10:00–17:00 every day, with temporary closures possible without notice and regular closure December 29–January 3 and for facility maintenance; up to nine visitors need no reservation, while larger groups and guided visits require advance booking (guided visits are weekdays only). Free parking serves about 10 passenger cars and one mid-size bus; large buses should not be used because of limited space. Wheelchairs and strollers can enter, two rental wheelchairs are available, lunch is not permitted, and only guide or service dogs may enter. Visitor address: 1712 Kinrabaru, Afuso, Onna-son, Kunigami-gun, Okinawa 904-0402, Japan.