DATE2025.06.16 #News

"Agreement Signed with Chile’s Antofagasta Region on Astronomy and Space Science"

On June 11, 2025, the School of Science at the University of Tokyo signed an academic collaboration agreement with the Government of the Antofagasta Region in northern Chile. The agreement aims to promote academic exchange and cooperation in a wide range of fields, including astronomy and space science.

The signing ceremony took place at UTokyo’s Hongo Campus, attended by Dean Shin-ichi Ohkoshi and Governor Ricardo Díaz, along with representatives from both Chile and Japan. From Chile, Dr. Eduardo Unda (Director of the Observatory Center at the University of Antofagasta) and H.E. Mr. Ricardo Rojas (Ambassador of Chile to Japan) were present. From UTokyo, Professor Emeritus Yuzuru Yoshii, Professor Kotaro Kohno, and Professor Takashi Miyata participated in the event.

Group photo (from left to right): Professor Takashi Miyata, Dr. Eduardo Unda (Director of Observatory Center), Professor Emeritus Yuzuru Yoshii, Dean Shin-ichi Ohkoshi, Governor Ricardo Díaz, Ambassador Ricardo Rojas, Professor Kotaro Kohno, and Mr. Pablo Rojas (Governor’s Secretary).

This agreement further strengthens the relationship between UTokyo and the Antofagasta Region, which includes the city of San Pedro de Atacama—home to the University of Tokyo Atacama Observatory (TAO). The TAO Project has been underway for over 20 years and is now nearing completion. As part of the collaboration, the miniTAO telescope will be relocated to the University of Antofagasta, enhancing local research capacity in astronomy.

Dean Ohkoshi expressed gratitude for the long-standing cooperation with Chile and emphasized UTokyo’s commitment to deepening academic ties beyond astronomy. Governor Díaz highlighted the significance of scientific collaboration in bridging cultures and promoting shared knowledge, while University of Antofagasta President Marcos Sicktovic noted the importance of this partnership in advancing regional scientific capabilities.

This agreement marks a significant step in expanding international collaboration and fostering knowledge exchange between Japan and Chile.

For more information, The University of Tokyo Atacama Observatory Project.