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. Its parabolic tracking-and-control antennas are 18 metres and 10 metres in diameter. JAXA’s current visitor guidance lists free entry 10:00–17:00, with regular closures December 29–January 3 and on facility-maintenance days; 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.