Mauna Kea Stargazing… in Hilo

Stargazers, get ready. On Friday, March 27, the ‘Imiloa Astronomy Center’s planetarium will present a new live stargazing program.

Made possible through a partnership with the Onizuka Center for International Astronomy Visitor Information Station, the cold, clear Mauna Kea night sky will be presented in real-time in the planetarium, exploring stars, celestial objects, and more from the 9,000 foot-level.

Jameeka Marshall, a VIS staff member, will take participants on a journey through the night’s sky and introduce the instruments and techniques used to view a deep space object, while the planetarium operator will take the audience to the objects being discussed to gain an in-depth understanding.

“This program will include the night time stargazing at the VIS at 9,300 feet with an educational component in the world class planetarium,” states Ahia Dye, ‘Imiloa education staff member. “Locals and visitors of all ages will now be able to experience live stargazing above the clouds right here in Hilo.”

Tickets can be purchased at the ‘Imiloa front desk or by calling (808) 969-9703. Prices are $8 for individual, dual, kupuna, and family members, $6 for patron members, and free for silver, gold, and corporate members. The non-member rate is $10.