AstroDay Coming to Kona Commons

Infrared camera demos and other astronomical technology will be on display at AstroDay. Photo credit: Gemini Observatories

AstroDay, an annual science and astronomy education event sponsored by the Mauna Kea Astronomy Outreach Committee, is coming to Kona Commons on Saturday, Nov. 4 from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m.

This free, family-oriented, science celebration has been a tradition in Hilo for the past 16 years and will be in Kona for the first time. AstroDay will be at the former Sports Authority space at Kona Commons located at 74-5450 Makala Blvd. in Kailua-Kona.

Observatories from Mauna Kea and Haleakala will be represented, as well as other technology, education and cultural organizations. Highlights include Starlab which is a portable planetarium provided by the Canada France Hawai‘i and Gemini Observatories.

There will also be solar viewing with experienced astronomers, robotic demos, educational games and toys and many hands-on activities. Colorful and informative material will be available as well as displays from diverse organizations and a live broadcast by KWXX radio.

“We are very excited to bring this fun and educational event for keiki and families to Kona,” said Nancy Sakamoto, general manager of Kona Commons, “Kona Commons is proud to host the scientists and educators that are volunteering their time for this wonderful program.”

To learn more about AstroDay, go to www.mkaoc.org.