Hilo Students Explore Astronomy in Annual Program
The 23rd annual Journey Through the Universe program brings expert educators into Hilo classrooms to inspire students.
Updated on Oct. 24, 2026 in Space
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The 23rd annual Journey Through the Universe program recently completed a week of classroom visits in Hilo, serving 1,400 students in grades 2 through 12. Nineteen educators from Maunakea Observatories led hands-on astronomy lessons during the event.
Why it matters
The program provides students opportunities to explore astronomy beyond traditional classroom lessons. It aims to connect local youth with professional scientists and the astronomical work occurring at the nearby observatories.
The initiative engaged 1,400 students across Hilo with the support of 19 visiting educators. The program has operated for 23 years to provide specialized STEM access to students in grades 2 through 12.
The players
International Gemini Observatory
This facility is a major research center that manages the Gemini North Telescope located on Maunakea.
Hawaiʻi Department of Education
This state agency oversees the public school system and partners with scientific institutions to host educational programming.
Maunakea Observatories
This collective of international observatories facilitates astronomical research and public outreach programs on the island.
The details
Educators from the Maunakea Observatories and various scientific organizations conducted intensive astronomy lessons and career-focused discussions in local schools. Beyond the classroom, 70 students and their families participated in a stargazing event at Hale Pōhaku featuring telescope viewing and star storytelling.
Timeline
October 2026: Stargazing occurred at Hale Pōhaku earlier in the month.
October 19-22, 2026: Classroom visits by educators took place in Hilo.
2026-2027 school year: Five field trips to the Gemini North Telescope are scheduled.
2027: Another week of classroom visits and career panels is planned.
The Big Picture
This initiative reinforces the established educational model of the Maunakea Observatories' community outreach framework. By integrating professional scientists into public curricula, the program bridges the gap between high-level astronomical research and regional science education.
The program provides students with direct access to professional astronomers and specialized telescope technology. Participants gain hands-on experience and exposure to STEM career paths that are directly supported by the research infrastructure on Maunakea.
The takeaway
Engaging students through hands-on interactions with professional researchers can help demystify complex scientific careers. Families in the Hilo area can look for future public stargazing events and school field trips to continue their exploration of astronomy.
What happens next
Five field trips to the Gemini North Telescope are planned throughout the 2026-2027 school year. An additional week of classroom visits and career panels is scheduled to take place in 2027.
Further reading
For more information on scientific initiatives in the area, visit the Space section.
Live Poll
Should your local schools prioritize hands-on science partnerships over traditional classroom lessons?
