07月14日

On July 14, 1977, Japan launched its first meteorological satellite, Himawari, from NASA’s Kennedy Space Center. The Himawari series, including satellites 1 through 5 of the same model, provided real-time weather monitoring and greatly improved forecasting across the Asia-Pacific region. Himawari’s data is used for tracking typhoons, monitoring cloud patterns, and supporting climate research. The satellite program laid the foundation for advanced earth observation and remote sensing in Japan. Anniversary events include public lectures, museum exhibitions, and educational programs about space technology and meteorology.

Established in 2006 by the Endoscopic Medical Research Promotion Foundation, Endoscopy Day falls on July 14 based on the Japanese wordplay “na(7)-i(1)-shi(4).” The day highlights the importance of endoscopic procedures for early diagnosis and treatment of gastrointestinal diseases. Medical societies, hospitals, and research institutions host seminars, workshops, and public health screenings. It serves to educate both professionals and the public about the latest innovations and best practices in endoscopy. The event fosters collaboration, research, and improved patient care in the field of minimally invasive medicine.