Curascopium

Soundscape of the Universe at the Sendai Astronomical Observatory

— A universe traveled through sound, experienced together by visually impaired and sighted audiences —

On January 4 and 5, 2025, we held "Soundscape of the Universe" at the Sendai Astronomical Observatory — a planetarium performance that people with and without visual impairments can enjoy together — and successfully completed the two-day run.

Despite snowy weather and difficult footing, about 200 people attended over the two days.
It was this project's first large-scale public event, and a real milestone for us. The eyes, voices, and reactions of each and every visitor gave us a strong sense of possibility and hope.

A challenge that may be a first in history

We had previously taught astronomy classes using touch and hearing together with visually impaired students. But this planetarium was truly uncharted territory.

"This experience of the universe can be conveyed without depending on sight."
Believing that, and with the opinions and advice of many people, we iterated again and again until we could bring it to life at the Sendai Astronomical Observatory.

Heartfelt thanks to our supporters

This performance would not have been possible without everyone who backed our first and second crowdfunding campaigns.
Your contributions covered everything: the venue, audio equipment, narration production, and visitor guidance support.

This planetarium, built through trial and error, was a space experience we created together with you.

Onward, guided by your feedback

We ran a survey after the performances and received many warm impressions, valuable opinions, and helpful suggestions.

We take them seriously and will use them to develop and improve the next planetarium experience.

We are now preparing a new performance for the summer of 2026, aiming to take the first step of our next challenge by then. Details will follow — we hope you look forward to it.

Upcoming presentations

We plan to present the results of this performance in professional venues such as the Society for the Promotion of Astronomical Education, and to introduce it in other contexts as well, including literary events related to visual impairment.
We hope astronomy, as a crossroads of science and sensibility, reaches even more hearts.

Join us in expanding the universe

This work has only just begun, but we are serious about building a future where everyone can feel the universe.
That takes many hands.
If you are interested or would like to cheer us on, please don't hesitate to reach out.
We would be delighted to continue this challenge together.