The 2nd Nikkei Hoshi Shinichi Award is now accepting submissions.

The Nikkei Inc. announced on June 13th the opening of submissions for the 2nd Nikkei "Shinichi Hoshi Award." This award, established last year as Japan's first prize for "science-based literature," honors the renowned science fiction writer Shinichi Hoshi.

The theme is: "Please write a story that fully utilizes your scientific imagination to stimulate the reader's mind." There are two categories: "General" and "Junior." One work per category will receive the "Grand Prize" (Hoshi Shin'ichi Award) and "Runner-up Prize," while the "Excellence Award" will be given to three works in the General category and several works in the Junior category.

The deadline is September 30. Details can be found on the award website: http://hoshiaward.nikkei.co.jp/