Figure 1: Designs of the NAOJ Epos Card. The cards feature one of two photographs: Comet Tsuchinshan–ATLAS and the Subaru Telescope, taken on Maunakea, Hawai‘i (left), or the parabolic antenna at NAOJ’s Mizusawa VLBI Observatory (right). To the right of the Subaru Telescope on the first card, the Keck I Telescope is also visible. (Credit: NAOJ)
The National Astronomical Observatory of Japan (NAOJ), in collaboration with Epos Card Co., Ltd. (headquartered in Nakano, Tokyo; President and Representative Director: Akikazu Aida), is launching a new way to support NAOJ through the NAOJ Epos Card. Contributions generated through card membership and use will help support NAOJ’s research, the development of early-career researchers, and astronomy education and public outreach.
How the NAOJ Epos Card Supports NAOJ
Contribution for new card memberships
For each new NAOJ Epos Card issued, Epos Card Co., Ltd. will contribute ¥1,000 to NAOJ.
Contributions based on card usage
Cardholders earn Epos Points at a rate of one point for every ¥200 spent (equivalent to 0.5% of the amount spent). Of this 0.5% rewards amount, the equivalent of 0.1% of the amount spent is allocated to supporting NAOJ.
Choose from Two Designs
The NAOJ Epos Card is available in two designs. One features Comet Tsuchinshan–ATLAS and the Subaru Telescope, photographed on Maunakea, Hawai‘i. The other features the parabolic antenna at NAOJ’s Mizusawa VLBI Observatory beneath the northern sky, with star trails capturing the apparent motion of the stars.
Applications for the NAOJ Epos Card opened on Friday, October 23, 2026. Please note that the card is available only to residents of Japan; people residing outside Japan are not eligible to apply.
For details, please visit the Epos Card website (Japanese Language).
We are grateful for everyone’s support. With your continued encouragement, the Subaru Telescope will keep exploring the mysteries of the Universe and sharing the wonders of astronomy with the public.
Guidelines for Use