To perform an astronomical observation, astronomers attach a camera or a spectrograph to a telescope. These astronomical instruments are designed and manufactured by astronomers themselves or in cooperation with industrial companies, considering the specifications required for actual observations. Advanced Technology Center (ATC) was established as an open use facility inside the campus of National Astronomical Observatory, Mitaka, in 1994, when the developments of Subaru instruments extensively started. It is used by researchers and graduate students at universities involved in astronomical instrumentations. Many of Subaru instruments were completed using ATC facilities. .

ATC consists of two main parts; one is a project office and the other is an open use facility. Instruments for ground-based telescopes, balloons, and satellites are developed and constructed in the project office. The open use facility has a design shop for mechanical, optical, and electronic designs; a machine shop for mechanical construction; an electric shop for the development of electronics; an opt-shop equipped with precision machinesfor optics; a clean room. Staffs of ATC develop and maintain these facilities.