Science on Site at AstroDay in Kona

Maunakea Observatories Bring Science Fun to Kona Commons

KONA, HAWAI`I (September 21, 2023) – Learners of all ages are invited to Kona Commons Shopping Center in Kailua Kona on Saturday, October 7, 10 a.m. to 3 p.m., for an entertainment-filled day of astronomy, robotics, and natural sciences. Sponsored by the Maunakea Observatories, this free, open-air event is an opportunity for the community to meet with scientists and educators and learn how Hawai`i contributes to new and amazing discoveries in astronomy.

The Maunakea Observatories and other science-based and community organizations will offer fun and informative science demonstrations and activities. Free giveaways while supplies last and the UH Institute for Astronomy will have a solar telescope on site to safely view the surface of the sun. Special grand prizes will include two NASA-themed skateboards. No purchase is necessary, but you do need to be present to win. Prize drawing times are 11:30 a.m. and 1:30 p.m. 

Participating in this year’s event are:
Maunakea Observatories: UH Institute for Astronomy, Canada-France-Hawaii Telescope, Gemini Observatory, TMT International, W.M. Keck Observatory, JCMT/East Asian Observatory, Submillimeter Array and Subaru Telescope. The Las Cumbras Observatory  from Maui, will also participate.
Science Organizations: Center for Mauna Kea Stewardship, Shadow the Scientist Program (USCS), The Center for the Study of Active Volcanoes, Hawai`i Keiki Museum, HCC Natural Sciences Dept. (Pālamanui), Hawaii Keiki Museum, National Weather Service (NOAA) Mauna Loa, NASA Solar System Ambassadors and Project PANOPTES.
 
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About the Mauna Kea Astronomy Outreach Committee
AstroDay is a science and astronomy event sponsored by the Maunakea Astronomy Outreach Committee (MKAOC). MKAOC is a partnership of scientists, administrators, and educators in astronomy throughout the state of Hawaiʻi. The mission of MKAOC is to coordinate and organize the collective outreach efforts of the astronomy community and act as a forum for the astronomy community and related organizations to plan and coordinate outreach activities.

About Kona Commons 
Kona Commons, owned by local partners MacNaughton and Kobayashi Group, offers something for everyone and is home to 27 national and locally owned shops, and restaurants.  Voted West Hawaii’s Best Shopping Center for 11 years, the property regularly holds free, family-friendly community events including monthly artisan markets featuring locally made products.  For additional information about Kona Commons visit www.konacommons.com.