The crowds met at Prince Kūhiō Plaza in Hilo on May 3 for Astrode 2025, a free celebration of science, technology and spatial exploration. Teachers, staff and students from the University of Hawaii Astronomy Institute (Ifa) were one of scientists and academics presenting everything, practical activities, live scientific shows at robotics during the 23rd annual event organized by Maunakea Observatories.
More than 30 organizations everywhere Hawaii Gathered to share the wonders of science with Keiki and their families. The exhibitions invited participants to build model comets, create exoplanets and explore the universe via ultraviolet cameras.
“Everyone is enthusiastic about sharing their science, and a large part of this energy is transported to the general public, and this is what we hope that the public will leave,” said Carolyn Kaichi, specialist in education and awareness among Ifa.
Inspiration
For many, the event was more than fun – it was deeply personal. Sage Constantinou, a graduate student at IfaRecalled how Astrody helped trigger her own scientific journey.
“The sooner you can bring children to this kind of thing, the more he has to do stew,” said Constantinou. “I was a small child during these events. I grew up here in this city. This is a large part of the reason why I was able to follow my own path in education and finally continue my own research. ”
The event celebrated the creativity of students through the popular Maunakea Coin competition. Ros Haleyah Mari Asuncion Ganot, a 11th year student in Pāhoa High and Intermediate School, obtained first place with its design inspired by astronomy.
