In the city of Akashi, Hyogo Prefecture (southern Japan), a phenomenon called “Sunset Panda” returned after seven years. The event was seen on the observation deck of the Akashi Museum of Astronomical Sciences on the afternoon of March 1, with the setting sun perfectly aligned with the tower’s antenna, giving the illusion of a panda’s face.
#夕焼けパンダ歓喜のBGMつき動画です pic.twitter.com/XzrF8aPYHu
— 明石市立天文科学館 (@jstm135e) March 2, 2024
This phenomenon occurs annually in March and October. During these months, the sunset overlaps the steel tower near duskThis creates the appearance of a panda’s eyes, ears and facial contours. Observers present, including 20 lucky lottery winners, witnessed the full creation of “Sunset Panda” for the first time since 2017.
With applause and cheersThe audience enjoyed the show and captured the moment photographically. A primary school student shared with public broadcaster NHK his excitement at seeing the position of the panda’s eyes change, while an 80-year-old woman, whose birthday coincided with the event, expressed her anticipation and excitement at to experience the phenomenon afterwards. Follow the weather forecast for the whole week.
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夕焼けパンダ
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明石市立天文科学館の展望台から
見られる現象です pic.twitter.com/bbjMUkbZqA— NHK神戸放送局 (@nhk_KOBE_) March 1, 2024
Masato Nakajima, director of the Akashi Museum of Astronomical Sciences, expressed his shock and joy at the reappearance of “Sunset Panda” after so many years. QWe plan to organize similar events in the future to share this unique experience with the community.
dmr