Hawaii Astronomy Program Brings More Than 1,400 Students Together

Journey Through the Universe ran on Hawaii’s Big Island from October 19 to 22, 2026, with more than 1,400 students taking part.

Key details

• The program serves students from preschool through high school in the Hilo-Waiākea public school system.
• Its activities introduce students to astronomy and science conducted in Hawaii.
• Nineteen volunteer educators from scientific institutions, including Maunakea Observatories, participated.
• The National Center for Earth and Space Science Education developed the program. Gemini Observatory later brought it to Hawaii in collaboration with the Hilo-Waiākea Department of Education.

Nineteen volunteer educators from scientific institutions, including Maunakea Observatories, took part in the 2026 program.

Why it matters

The program connects local students with educators from scientific institutions and introduces them to science conducted in Hawaii. Its activities span preschool through high school, reaching students across multiple stages of their education.