More than 1,400 students on Hawaii’s Big Island took part in the annual Journey Through the Universe program from Oct. 19 to Oct. 22, learning about astronomy through activities that ranged from classroom lessons to observing the night sky beneath the Milky Way.
Now in its 23rd year, the program was developed by the National Center for Earth and Space Science Education and later brought to Hawaii by the international Gemini Observatory, part of the U.S. National Science Foundation’s NOIRLab. It works with the Department of Education Hilo-Waiākea to introduce students in the public school system to astronomy and science conducted across Hawaii.
Participants span preschool through high school. The program offers younger students an introduction to astronomy and gives older students opportunities to explore potential careers in science, technology, engineering and mathematics. This year, 19 volunteer educators from scientific institutions, including Maunakea Observatories, led lessons and hands-on activities.
The event’s night-sky gatherings included red lighting, which allows people to see in the dark without disrupting their night vision as white light can. The program brings students together with educators, volunteers and scientists for shared astronomy experiences.
Sources: Space.com.