The Physical Society of Japan Anniversary Projects for 2025-2027
September 2024
The 80th Board of Directors of The Physical Society of Japan,
On June 7, 2024, the United Nations General Assembly declared 2025 as the "International Year of Quantum Science and Technology" under UNESCO, commemorating the 100th anniversary of the birth of quantum physics. Reflecting on the 100-year history of quantum physics, which began with the formulation of matrix mechanics by W. Heisenberg, M. Born, and P. Jordan in 1925, it has not only contributed significantly to the understanding of the microscopic world of atoms and elementary particles, as well as the macroscopic universe, but also developed into technologies that support modern society. These include semiconductors, which made smartphones possible, ferromagnetic materials used in robots and motors, superconductors that power linear motor cars, and the recently advancing quantum computers. While recognizing the important role of quantum physics, we must also remember its other aspect, represented by nuclear weapons. It is certain that quantum physics will continue to be the foundation of future development over the next 100 years as well. Under the theme "Quantum 2025 - The First 100 Years are Only the Beginning...", various events and activities will be held around the world.
In 1877 (the 10th year of the Meiji era), mathematicians and physicists jointly established the "Tokyo Mathematical Society," which later reorganized and expanded into the "Tokyo Mathematico-Physics Society." This organization is the origin of our current society (renamed the Japan Mathematico-Physics Society in 1919). Therefore, 2027 marks the 150th anniversary of that founding. Additionally, in 1946 (the 21st year of the Showa era), right after the end of World War II, the Japan Mathematico-Physics Society split into the Mathematical Society of Japan and the Physical Society of Japan, marking a fresh start. Counting from that point, 2026 will be the 80th anniversary.
As outlined above, the years 2025, 2026, and 2027 will be significant milestones for the Physical Society of Japan. Therefore, the Board of Directors has decided to establish a Special Committee for Commemorative Projects, with the aim of not only advancing the field of physics but also deepening the relationship between physics and society through various activities over these three years.
The planned activities are as follows. We intend to carry out these projects with support not only from our members but also from the broader citizens, utilizing sponsorship from companies and crowdfunding.
1. "Physics as Culture"
・Planning events where participants can immerse themselves in music and visual experiences inspired by quantum physics
・Planning "Physics Karuta" (a traditional Japanese card game) and other physics-related goods
・Establishing a "Physics Day" and promoting it
2. "Physics for Youth and Citizens"
・Planning exhibits related to quantum physics at museums
・Planning a special issue on quantum physics in science magazines
・Publishing and distributing a "Physics Wall Newspapers" to high schools nationwide
・Planning "Physics Quizzes" and exploring the "Physics Certification Examination"
・Issuing a "Peace Declaration" in collaboration with the German Physical Society
3. "Learning from History"
・Designating "Physics Heritage"
・Serializing historical articles in the society's journal and publishing them as a book
4. "Expanding Frontiers"
・Hosting international conferences organized by JPS
・Publishing an English-language physics textbook for global audiences
・Creating an online physics glossary
To promote these various projects, we also plan to collaborate with influencers, who will act as "Physics Ambassadors."