One of Japan’s first planetariums is the Osaka Planetarium. Built in 1937, it remains to be the largest planetarium in the world with a 26.5 meter diameter (86.9 feet). The dome has enchanted and influenced Osaka’s cultural society since the day it debuted. One of the most famous regulars to the planetarium was Osamu Tezuka, the creator of “Atomu”, also known as Astro Boy). The planetarium is able to display over 4500 stars and planets and can even show the Milky Way. Recently, the planetarium was upgraded with a new digital projector system. The new system will be able to display shows for the Tanabata (Star Festival). Tanabata is a time to celebrate one of Japan’s more popular folk legends about a prince and princess who were separated by a river of stars. Tanabata celebrates the one day of the year that the two lovers are able to meet.

[via Daily Yomiuri Online]

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