Behind every astronomical discovery are the stories and experiences of the people who made it possible. Explore the latest from across the Maunakea Observatories.
STORIES
The 2024 Maunakea Wonders Teacher Workshop
Since 2017, the Maunakea Wonders Teacher Workshop has connected 126 local Masters of Arts in Teaching students at UH Hilo to the observatory and educational resources. This year, 15 students participated in this two-day event hosted by the East Asian Observatory.
Bryan Silver: 2025 Hawaiʻi State Teacher of the Year and Maunakea Scholars Teacher
Bryan Silver, a science and Career and Technical Education at Kalani High School was named 2025 Hawaiʻi State Teacher of the Year by the state Department of Education! Bryan has spent the last 24 years teaching in the Honolulu district and has been a Maunakea Scholars (MKS) teacher since 2016 providing Honolulu students with project-based, hands-on STEM learning experiences. This honor reflects the profound impact he’s had on his students and community.
What Does It Take To Become A Telescope Operator?
Derek Petrowski was always curious about working with telescopes, even as a child. While his path to becoming a Telescope Operator and Support Technician at W. M. Keck Observatory wasn’t necessarily linear, his diverse life experiences and career trajectory have led him to becoming a critical member of the Maunakea Observatories community.
MKOs and community come together for Tanabata Block Party
More than 1,500 attend 22nd Annual AstroDay in Hilo
AstroDay 2024 transformed Hilo’s Prince Kūhiō Plaza into a galaxy far, far away! Falling on May 4, 2024, this year’s free science and astronomy event paid special tribute to the Star Wars theme of “May the Fourth Be With You,” and welcomed more than 1,500 keiki and families for a day of scientific activities, games, and giveaways.
Journey Program Hilo Finishes its 20th Year
Journey Through the Universe in Hilo marked its 20th anniversary, wrapping up on Feb. 9, 2024, amid a 5.7 magnitude earthquake. Throughout Journey Week (Feb. 5 - 9), volunteers engaged over 4,000 students in Hilo-Waiākea public schools with astronomy and STEM presentations tailored to teacher requests, highlighting careers in science and technology, including community events like a reception, lecture, stargazing, and a movie screening.