University of Hawaiʻi faculty, staff and students helped bring astronomy to life for hundreds of visitors at AstroDay West on November 7. The ninth annual Maunakea Observatories event at Kona Commons gave keiki and their ʻohana a chance to meet scientists and educators, try hands-on activities and explore new technology, all for free.
“Over the years, AstroDay has evolved into a celebration of science and technology across Hawaiʻi Island,” said Doug Simons, director of IfA. “This year, keiki and their ʻohana explored everything from the depths of the ocean to the far reaches of the universe. I hope the experience inspires them to become the next generation of scientists, engineers and explorers.”
A highlight of this year’s event was Hale Hōkū, Gemini Observatory’s portable planetarium, which gave visitors an immersive look at the night sky. Attendees also had the opportunity to safely observe the sun through solar telescopes.
“My son absolutely loves science and learning anything,” said Raimie Hawk, an AstroDay West attendee. “The activity that we really enjoyed today was making my son’s very own constellation.”
Keiki could also enter the annual Maunakea Coin Contest, a statewide graphic design competition that invites Hawaiʻi Island students in grades K–12 to compete for prizes and the chance to have their artwork featured on official AstroDay collector coins.