Galaxy Forum Hawai’i 2021 – Kamuela
Astronomy from the Moon and from Hawaii
17 November 2021 from 3:00-4:30pm

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Galaxy Forum Hawai’i 2020: Kamuela — Wednesday 12 November 2020 (15:30-17:30 HST) on WebEx

Themed “Hawaii 21st Century Astrophysics” 

To watch the Galaxy Forum presentations, click on the screenshot picture (1st hour playable online, video must be downloaded to watch all 2.5 hours):

Our in-person audience in Kamuela, Hawai’i :

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Galaxy Forum Hawai’i 2019: Kamuela — Wednesday 30 October

The third Galaxy Forum on Hawai’i Island in 2019, Galaxy Forum Kamuela was well-received by an audience of ~40 local and international participants.

Doug Simons, Director of CFHT, gave a presentation on exciting new tech for CFHT:

Wendy Laros, Executive Director of Kona-Kohala Chamber of Commerce, spoke about its community members and interconnected local issues:

Steve Durst, Director of ILOA, discussed the New Frontier of Astronomy for Hawaii and the ILOA HQ campaign:

While Jacqui Hoover was unable to join us, we had an enjoyable and educational presentation by Nadine Manset, Resident Astronomer & QSO Manager of CFHT, who spoke about Mauna Kea Observatories outreach and programs:

 

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Galaxy Forum Hawai’i 2019: Hilo — Saturday 17 August (10:00am – 12:00pm) @ ‘Imiloa Astronomy Center

Galaxy Forum Hawaii 2019: Hilo was held at the ‘Imiloa Astronomy Center in Hilo. At least 40 attendees gathered to learn about the latest technology and scientific advances at our Island’s observatories and hear insights from civic leaders and cultural practitioners.

ILOA presentation by Steve Durst:

Institute for Astronomy presentation by Mark Chun:

PISCES presentation by Kyla Edison:

Image contributed by David De Luz of Rotary Club of Hilo Bay explaining how he sees the wheel of education and business in our community functioning through astronomy and various organizations; and blog post created by Junichi Noumaru:

Article supporting Astronomy in Hawai’i by Miles Yoshioka:

Click the image watch the (c) Hawaii Island Chamber of Commerce video “Celebrating 50 Years on Astronomy on Mauna Kea”:

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Galaxy Forum Hawaii 2019: Kona — 29 March (15:30 – 17:30) @ Hawaiʻi Community College, Pālamanui, Kailua-Kona

The first ILOA Galaxy Forum of 2019 was held at the Hawai’i Community College Pālamanui Campus in Kailua-Kona. Over 40 participants made this a lively and energetic community gathering, with presentations on Local, Lunar, Galaxy and Star matters.

CFHT Director Doug Simons presents on CFHT / Maunakea Observatories Education Outreach Programs:

Kyla Edison shares 2019 STARS STEM program from PISCES:

ILOA Director Steve Durst updates on ILOA 4 Moon Missions, Astronomy from the Moon, and ILOA HQ:

Louise Riofrio talks on the Speed of Light:

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Galaxy Forum Hawaii 2018, Kamuela — 7 November (4:15-6:15 pm) @ Kahilu Town Hall, Waimea, Hawaii, USA

The well-attended Galaxy Forum Kamuela 2018 was a great collaboration between international Observatories operating on Hawai’i Island. Common themes throughout were Milky Way Galaxy Center research, public outreach / education and future science goals. Mayor Harry Kim also presented International Lunar Observatory Association with a Certificate of Appreciation at the event.

Meetup page: www.bit.ly/GFHawaii

FaceBook Page: www.bit.ly/GFHawaiiFB

CFHT Director Doug Simons on 21st Century Science and Mauna Kea 2033 lease renewal:

W. M. Keck Observatory’s Randy Campbell — Astronomy Update:

Yuki Takahashi and Joseph Sulla, International Lunar Observatory Association 4 Moon Missions and Hawaii 21st Century Astronomy:

Jessica Dempsey, EAO / JCMT Deputy Director, gives a talk on Revealing the invisible universe from Maunakea:

NAOJ / Subaru Telescope Scientist Masato Onodera on Recent Science Highlights and Future Prospects:

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Galaxy Forum Hawaii 2017 — Kamuela

Wednesday 8 November (4:15-6:30pm) @ Kahilu Town Hall, Waimea, Hawaii, USA

RSVP Now To Hold Your Place

Galaxy Forum Hawaii 2017 — Kamuela

Future of Astronomy in Hawaii: 
The Next 100 Years

4:15-6:30 pm on Wednesday November 8, 2017
Punawaiola Room at Kahilu Town Hall
67-1187 Lindsey Road
Kamuela, Hawaii 96743

RSVP to info@iloa.org / 808-885-3474

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Galaxy Forum Hawaii 2017 — Kona

Saturday 8 April (09:30 – 11:30am) @ King Kamehameha Kona Beach Hotel – Courtyard Marriott, Hawaii, USA

Featuring Hawaii Mayor Harry Kim, who has generously accepted our invitation to make a presentation at Galaxy Forum Hawaii 2017 Kona about his vision for a “Maunakea World Park” referencing a quest for knowledge to make us a better people…Maunakea as a monument for the World from Cosmopolitan People of Hawaii.

Keynote: Mayor Harry Kim, County of Hawaii

A Vision for Maunakea as a World / Global Park from the Cosmopolitan People of Hawaii

Statement from the Mayor’s Office:

MISSION FOR HAWAII

The protection and preservation of the historical and cultural specialness of this land, the most precious and beautiful place on earth.
VISION FOR MAUNA KEA

• A pursuit of knowledge to make us a better people, and better stewards of this land.
• An international symbol of nations together for the pursuit of peace. Mauna Kea can be and should be a monument for the world for peace on earth. A home of the cosmopolitan culture (people that belong to the world)…a hope for the world.
• The acknowledgment of the people of Hawaii and their contributions to the science of astronomy. Mauna Kea to be the living museum of the people of the First Nation of Hawaii.
• I believe that Mauna Kea is an opportunity for Hawaii to be the center of discovery of mankind and of the universe. I believe that Mauna Kea can be and should be this.

I do know Governor Ige is supportive of these visions and is pursuing how this can be done.

Steve Durst, ILOA, Kamuela

ILO-1: Observation from the Moon, a New Frontier for Hawaii  21st Century Astronomy

Janine Bonham, Hawaii Technology Academy, Kailua-Kona / Statewide

Galaxy Education, Astronomy and Science Teaching in Hawaii

Background:

Galaxy Forum is the primary education and outreach initiative of ILOA, it is an architecture designed to advance 21st Century science, education, enterprise and development around the world.

Galaxy Forums are public events specifically geared towards high school teachers, educators, astronomers of all kinds, students and the general public. Presentations are provided by experts in the fields of astrophysics / galaxy research, space exploration and STEM education, as well as related aspects of culture and traditional knowledge. Interactive panel discussions allow for community participation and integration of local perspectives.

Stats:

• 75 Galaxy Forums, with over 300 presentations to date.
• Held in 26 locations worldwide including Hawaii, Silicon Valley, Canada, China, India, Southeast Asia, Japan, Europe, Africa, Chile, Brazil, Kansas and New York.
• Started with Galaxy Forum USA, July 4, 2008 in Silicon Valley, California.

International Lunar Observatory Association (ILOA) is an interglobal enterprise incorporated in Hawaii as a 501(c)(3) non-profit to expand human knowledge of the Cosmos through observation from our Moon and to participate in internationally cooperative lunar base build-out, with Aloha – the spirit of Hawaii.
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Galaxy Forum Hawaii 2016 — Kona

Saturday 23 January (10:00am to Noon) @ Astronaut Ellison S Onizuka Space Center

The theme of the 1st Galaxy Forum of 2016 is “Astronomy from the Moon”. Galaxy Forums are public events specifically geared towards high school teachers, educators, astronomers of all kinds, students and the general public.

Program:

Hawai`i State Endorsement for Astronomy From The Moon: ILOA Galacticity

Steve Durst, ILOA

Galaxy Garden, New Horizons Message, Galactic Year 2016, Other Updates

Jon Lomberg, Space Artist

Ellison and his Legacy

Nancy Tashima, Onizuka Space Center

Background:

Galaxy Forum is the primary education and outreach initiative of ILOA, it is an architecture designed to advance 21st Century science, education, enterprise and development around the world.

Galaxy Forums are public events specifically geared towards high school teachers, educators, astronomers of all kinds, students and the general public. Presentations are provided by experts in the fields of astrophysics / galaxy research, space exploration and STEM education, as well as related aspects of culture and traditional knowledge. Interactive panel discussions allow for community participation and integration of local perspectives.

Stats:

• 65 Galaxy Forums, with a total of almost 300 presentations to date.
• Held in 26 locations worldwide including Hawaii, Silicon Valley, Canada, China, India, Southeast Asia, Japan, Europe, Africa, Chile, Brazil, Kansas and New York.
• Started with Galaxy Forum USA, July 4, 2008 in Silicon Valley, California.

International Lunar Observatory Association (ILOA) is an interglobal enterprise incorporated in Hawaii as a 501(c)(3) non-profit to expand human knowledge of the Cosmos through observation from our Moon and to participate in internationally cooperative lunar base build-out, with Aloha – the spirit of Hawai`i.
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Galaxy Forum Hawaii 2015 — Waimea

Thursday 12 November (4-6pm)@ Kahilu Town Hall, Punawaiola Room, Kamuela, Hawaii, USA

The International Lunar Observatory Association (ILOA) is initiating, supporting and collaborating with projects around the world to advance human civilization to the Moon for good, and for all.

The bottom line is, Stars are important, we are all Star-stuff!

The program includes:

KEYNOTE: Astronomy from the Moon and Hawai`i: Cultural Perspectives – Kimo Keli`i Ka`aha`aina Pihana, Hawai`i Kupuna and Cultural Practitioner; Author of “Celebrating the Hawaiian Culture”, also serves on the ILOA Board of Directors.

Kimo travels at the convergence of many streams of understanding and exploration — Science, Education, Culture, Philosophy, Spirituality. He has considered and inspirational perspectives on many topics. Excerpts from “Celebrating the Hawaiian Culture” (Pihana, 2014):

I am just an ordinary native Hawaiian who grew up on O`ahu. I have had a full life as a sailor, a soldier, a refinery worker, a cultural warrior, and a ranger and cultural practitioner on our sacred mountain Mauna Kea. I have done my part, along with many others, as best as we can to advance and honor our culture — not to recreate the old culture, but to use it as a guide, a meditation, as we look forward in the 21st Century.

I am a Native Hawaiian, 100%. The attitudes of society when I was growing up made me feel ashamed to be Hawaiian. Things are somewhat better today. But as Hawaiians, we have been steadily losing our culture for a couple of hundred years. We often talk with our kapuna, our wise elders, seeking answers. But our kapuna are dying rapidly, and don’t have enough answers yet. How do we deal with this?

Imua (move forward) – with humility. Expect you’re going to get criticism, whatever you do. You can get lonely sometimes. And expect the unexpected – you’ve gotta deal with it all. How? Go back to the beginning, within. Are you pure in your heart and soul? Are you spiritually pono – Balanced?

Go to that spiritual fire that is deep inside. Romance that fire. Take time with it. There is a magic that each of us carries. Let it come out.

International Lunar Observatory-1: Making Moon South Pole Astronomy and Communications a Reality – Steve Durst, Founding Director, International Lunar Observatory Association, Editor and Publisher of Space Age Publishing Co.

International Lunar Observatory Association (ILOA) is an interglobal enterprise incorporated in Hawaii as a 501(c)(3) non-profit to expand human knowledge of the Cosmos through observation from our Moon and to participate in internationally cooperative lunar base build-out, with Aloha – the spirit of Hawai`i.

Pursuing a series of Moon-based observatory missions to complement Earth-based and Space-based astronomy, ILOA seeks to advance Galaxy Imaging for 21st century astronomy education with its ILO-1 primary mission 2-meter radio antenna to Malapert Mt. 86°S 2.7°E near the Moon’s South Pole, with an ILO-X precursor mission aboard a GLXP lander, and with a Human Service Mission to the ILO-1 / robotic village new world frontier.

ILOA is also collaborating with the National Astronomical Observatories – Chinese Academy of Sciences (NAOC) Lunar Ultraviolet Telescope (LUT) at Mare Imbrium 44°N 20°W aboard the China Chang’e-3 Moon Lander, the first spacecraft to land on the Moon in almost 40 years and the only spacecraft operating on the lunar surface. Conducting science-driven and education-based Astronomy from the Moon via LUT is a foundational success of international cooperation on which the ILOA intends to build.

More than 40 years since the Far Ultraviolet Camera / Spectrograph operated on the Descartes Highlands by NASA Apollo 16 Commander and ILOA Board of Director Emeritus John Young in April 1972, ILOA is drawing together resources from across the planet to reclaim the cosmic revolution of Humanity as a Multi World Species.

The 7th Edition of ILOA’s stellar “Galaxy Map” is now being distributed to high school teachers and other educators around the world, designed for use in every class, alongside maps of the world and Solar System.

Astronomy from the Moon with LUT and ILO-1; Applying Hawaii Astrophysics Leadership to 21st Century Frontiers – R. Pierre Martin, Assistant Professor of Astronomy and Director of the UH Hilo Hoku Ke’a Observatory, also serves on the ILOA Hawaii Lunar Astronomy Team

Our Universe is home to at least 100 billion galaxies, vast agglomerations of stars, gas and dark matter. Today, astronomers around the world study galaxies using a variety of facilities, including ground-based and space telescopes. The Moon’s surface is another promising location to conduct these astronomical observations. In this presentation I will examine the potential of the lunar surface as a site to study galaxies, as first demonstrated during the Apollo 16 missions in 1972. I will then discuss recent observations of the spiral galaxy M101 that were conducted with the Chang’e-3 Lunar Ultraviolet Telescope (LUT), currently operating on the Moon’s surface. I will conclude with how these early results show the Moon’s full potential as a platform to perform galaxy studies in the near future.

Mauna Kea, Ancestral Connections – Pua Case, Hawaiian Cultural Resource, Kumu, Educator

Moonrise Through Mauna Kea’s Shadow (Image Credit: Michael Connelley, U. Hawaii)

Excerpts from Letter by Pua Case, “Stand with us to help save Hawai’i’s most sacred mountain, Mauna Kea” Published on Jan 18, 2014 (For the Love of the Mountain)

Aloha mai kakou,

If you would just take a moment to pause from your busy day and think about the most
sacred place that you are connected to, the place that brings you peace and accepts your prayers, very likely the place where your grandparents and their parents once prayed, the place you would safeguard with all of your might, with all that you are and all that you have. If you said the holy name of that place out loud, would it be the name of a church or a temple or chapel you hold dear? Say it, utter its name out loud as I do….my church, my temple, my mountain, Mauna a Wakea, Mauna Kea.

Yes, it is I, an educator, a cultural practitioner, a chanter, a dancer, a teacher, a mother, a petitioner. I have come forward to speak of this mountain, this place I hold dear, this place I sing of and sing to because it is sacred. As a Hawaiian raised in Waimea on Hawai’i Island, raised by my elders, I know intimately of the relationship our kupuna had with the land and the natural elements in what they did and what they knew. I still sing those songs and say those prayers as I place my hands upon the earth or hold them to the heavens. Our ancestors never destroyed to advance, never constructed in a manner that would irreparably harm their island home or its inhabitants. They were a people who protected the balance, the alignment, the interdependence, and the energy in all things. They knew on the deepest of levels how connected all was and is still, not just to here, but to everywhere and everything. In us, that memory still lives. […]

The Future of Mauna Kea Rests in the Hands of Hawaii’s People – Doug Simons, Director, (TBC) or representative Mary Beth Laychak, Outreach Program Manager, Canada-France-Hawaii Telescope

The Canada-France-Hawaii Telescope (CFHT) is a joint non-profit facility of the National Research Council of Canada, the Centre National de la Recherche Scientifique of France, and the University of Hawaii dedicated to the exploration of the Universe through observation. Its telescope is located on the summit ridge of Mauna Kea, at 4,200 meters on the Island of Hawaii and CFHT headquarters are in Waimea-Kamuela.

The telescope, with its 3.6-m diameter mirror, became operational in 1979. Once one of the largest telescopes in the world, CFHT, in spite of its age and nowadays modest size, remains at the forefront of astronomy thanks to the quality of its site, its state-of-the-art instrumentation, the quality of the services offered to its users, and the dedication of its staff.

CFHT’s main users are scientists from Canada, France, and Hawaii. Collaborative agreements also offer access to the telescope by the astronomical communities of Taiwan, Brazil, and China. Access is granted following a competitive process based on the scientific quality of the proposals and their adequacy to the telescope.

This is a crucial time for Hawaii. It is crucial for all of us who live in and love Hawaii to sit together and find common ground through face to face, eye to eye, dialog. It is up to us to define a long term future for Maunakea that honors its important cultural history, provides a platform for building a stronger cultural future, protects its environment, and strengthens Hawaii’s stature as the preeminent spot in the world for observing the universe.

– Doug Simons, Hilton Lewis; August 12, 2015

Panel Discussion and Audience Q&A – Moderated by Sherry Bracken, LAVA 105.3 fm and KKOA 107.7 fm (Mahalo Multi-Media); Island Issues

Original art by Clayton Young, adapted as mosaic floor at `Imiloa Astronomy Center

The Panel Discussion is about coming together to share knowledge and hopes for the future, most specifically the prospect of a new frontier — Astronomy from the Moon, and its benefits for Hawaii. A primary goal is to provide a forum for community members to come together to consider the future of Hawaii in the truly global, soon to be Multi World, endeavor of seeking knowledge among the Stars, and applying this knowledge to the continual evolution of human cultures and capabilities. The bottom line is, Stars are important, we are all Star-stuff.

Sherry Bracken has been with LAVA 105.3 and KKOA 107.7 since they first went on air in 2004. She writes, hosts, and produces the thrice daily event update Community Corner and the weekly interview program Island Issues. Sherry has interviewed more than 500 guests who impact Hawai’i Island—elected officials, scientists, police, drug addicts, members of nonprofit organizations, and more. She also moderates candidate forums and MCs events all around the island. She was the Hawai’i Island reporter for Hawai’i Public Radio for ten years. She moved from San Francisco to Hawai’i Island in 1994. Sherry was named to the Hawai’i Island Women’s Hall of Fame and has been recognized by the Hawai’i State Senate and Rotary Mauka Kona for community service.

FREE Public Event — RSVP info@iloa.org or 808-885-3474

International Lunar Observatory Association (ILOA) is an interglobal enterprise incorporated in Hawaii as a 501(c)(3) non-profit to expand human knowledge of the Cosmos through observation from our Moon and to participate in internationally cooperative lunar base build-out, with Aloha – the spirit of Hawai`i. The ILOA co-sponsors with its Space Age Publishing Company affiliate an international series of Galaxy Forums to advance 21st Century Education. Galaxy Forums, designed to provide greater global awareness, capabilities and action in Galaxy science, exploration and enterprise, are held in Hawaii, Silicon Valley, Canada, China, India, Japan, Europe, Africa, Chile, Brazil, Southeast Asia, Kansas and New York. Current plans are for expansion to Antarctica and beyond.
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Galaxy Forum Hawaii 2014 – Waimea

Wednesday 19 November 2014 (4:30 – 6:30pm) @ Anna Ranch, Kamuela, Hawaii

This event is free and open to the public, but space is limited. Please RSVP to info@iloa.org or call 808-885-3474.

ILOA is an interglobal enterprise incorporated in Hawaii as a 501(c)(3) non-profit to expand human knowledge of the Cosmos through observation from our Moon and to participate in internationally cooperative lunar base build-out, with Aloha – the spirit of Hawai`i. The ILOA co-sponsors with its Space Age Publishing Company affiliate an international series of Galaxy Forums to advance 21st Century Education. Galaxy Forums, designed to provide greater global awareness, capabilities and action in Galaxy science, exploration and enterprise, are held in Hawaii, Silicon Valley, Canada, China, India, Japan, Europe, Africa, Chile, Brazil, Southeast Asia, Kansas and New York. Current plans are for expansion to Antarctica and beyond.

[Initial Request for Nominations]

Aloha Hawaii Island Educators,

The International Lunar Observatory Association is currently putting together the program for its next Galaxy Forum event in Hawai`i and it is looking to identify a local teacher and / or student that is doing innovative work to advance Galaxy / Science education here on island. Please contact us to nominate yourself, a colleague or a student as a potential presenter at this event. Check out our website – GalaxyForum.org – for a listing of past presenters and details about our Galaxy Forum program. Please submit nominations or inquiries by email to info@iloa.org or call 808-885-3474.

Galaxy Forum Hawaii – Waimea 2014 will be held at Anna Ranch in Kamuela on Wednesday, November 19 from 4:30-6:30pm. Along with the presentations by the local teacher and student, the Forum will include extensive updates on astronomy and astronautical research and educational activities underway on island, including a presentation on the 4 Moon Missions of the ILOA and its plan to build a global headquarters and education / research center in Waimea. Educators will receive a Certificate of Participation as well as 21st Century Galaxy education resources – such as the ILOA Galaxy Map 2014. They will also have the opportunity to arrange for an ILOA guest lecture / technology demonstration for their class.

We will be sending you a formal invitation to the Galaxy Forum in the next month. Please don’t hesitate to contact us if you would like more information about the Galaxy Forum program or if you would like to share any ideas for this or future events. It is ILOA’s intention to make the Galaxy Forum a collaborative venue where local educators and scientists can share resources, ideas, concerns and goals to both showcase the innovative work already underway, and to provide additional support to our local educators and students.

Sincerely, Mahalo,

Steve Durst, Joseph Sulla, Phil Merrell
ILOA / Galaxy Forum program
GalaxyForum.org
ILOA.org
808-885-3474

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Galaxy Forum Hawaii 2013 – Waimea

Tuesday 19 November 2013 (5-7pm) @ Waimea Community Education, Kamuela, Hawai`i

ILOA is launching its Galaxy Map 2013 – an innovative new resource for 21st Century Education – into local schools. This publication, over 1 year in development, is being made available to teachers and educators across Hawaii and around the world. In addition to presentations from local educators about integrating space and science into the classrooms and curriculum, there will be a feature astronomy presentation and an update on the ILOA Global HQ development campaign.

The program features:

A Galaxy Map for Every Class — Steve Durst, Founding Director ILOA / Galaxy Forum and Space Age Publishing Company

NAOC Frontiers of Astronomy & Galaxy Research — Maohai Huang, National Astronomical Observatory, Chinese Academy of Sciences

Space Across the Curriculum — Robert Zellner, Teacher at Kanu o ka `Aina New Century School

Astronomy, Asteroids & Software — Lysha Matsunobu, Student at Parker School

ILOA Global HQ Development Campaign — Joseph Sulla, ILOA / SPC

ILOA Galaxy 21st Century Education, Exploration and Enterprise — Phil Merrell, ILOA / SPC

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Galaxy Forum Hawaii 2013 – Hilo

Saturday 17 August 2013 (9am-1pm) @ University of Hawaii – Hilo, STB Room 118

Galaxy Forum Hawaii 2013 — Galaxy 21st Century Education: Setting Sail for the Stars, a free public event hosted by the International Lunar Observatory Association and the Pacific International Space Center for Exploration Systems.

The program features

Pacific Aloha Offshore Spaceport: Space Access for Hawaii in the 21st Century – Steve Durst, Founding Director ILOA / Galaxy Forum, Space Age Publishing Company

ILOA Galaxy 1st Light for 21st Century Education and Exploration – Phil Merrell, ILOA Galaxy Forum Coordinator

Galaxy Map for Every Class – Introduction of a leading edge Galaxy 21st Century Education tool and reference chart for the new dimension beyond our world and Solar System

The ILOA Global Headquarters Development Campaign – Joseph Sulla, ILOA Director

With Special Presentations from:

Pacific International Space Center for Exploration Systems (PISCES) – John Hamilton, PISCES EPO and Logistics Manager, UHH Astronomy Professor

Hawai`i Space Exploration Analog and Simulation (HI-SEAS) – Kim Binsted, UH-NASA Astrobiology Institute Co-Investigator

These projects, particularly the Pacific Space Access initiative, have the potential to elevate the State of Hawaii’s position as a global leader in astronomy, technology and space science / education.

As the ILOA looks upward to the stars and forward to the future we ask for your participation and guidance in helping to achieve the highest standards of excellence in Hawaii education, enterprise and exploration.

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Galaxy Forum Hawaii 2012 – Waimea

Sun 18 Nov 2012 (4:00-5:30pm) @ Canada-France-Hawaii Telescope HQ

As the ILOA looks upward to the stars and forward to the future we ask for your participation and guidance in helping to achieve the highest standards of excellence in Hawaii education, enterprise and exploration.

Thanks for joining us for this Galaxy Forum on the ‘ILOA Moon Missions & Hawaii Culture and Exploration in the 21st Century’ at Canada-France-Hawaii Telescope Headquarters in Waimea.

The program includes:

Phil Merrell, ILOA / Space Age Publishing: ILOA Missions to the Moon

Exciting overview of the current progress of Hawaii-based International Lunar Observatory Association science and education missions to the Moon: ILO-1 to the Moon South Pole NET2014, ILO-X with GLXP Team Moon Express in 2014, ILOA-NAOC collaboration on the China Chang’e-3 in 2013, and leading the call for innovative independent Human ventures to the Moon in the near future.

Kimo Pihana, Hawaii Kapuna and Cultural Practitioner: Traditional Blessing and Talk on Hawaii Culture and Exploration in the 21st Century

Sandra Dawson, Thirty Meter Telescope: Update on the planned Thirty-Meter Telescope project

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Galaxy Forum Hawaii 2012 – Kona

Saturday 21 January 2012 (10:00-12:00) @ Onizuka Space Center

Galaxy Forum 2012 lifts off with a return to the Astronaut Ellison S. Onizuka Space Center (OSC), the venue of our first ever Galaxy Forum Hawaii in 2009. As the ILOA looks upward to the stars and forward to the future we invite your help in spreading the message of education on the Island. Hawaii cultural practitioner Koa Rice references the global preeminence of Hawaii education during the time of King Kalakaua in reminding our communities that we need to help keiki “realize they can strive and be anything they want to be, following in the footsteps of our ancestors.”

ILOA 2012 Galaxy Poster for 21st Century Education will be distributed free-of-charge to forum participants and associated schools. The poster, intended primarily for classroom use, features a full color Milky Way Galaxy schematic developed from the latest research as well as statistical overviews of Galaxy dimensions and composition.

Interactive Panel Discussions will focus on how to best support teachers / schools / students in their efforts to achieve excellence in Hawaii 21st Century Education.

Nancy Tashima, Space Curator at OSC will present on the educational resources, programs and materials available through OSC to Hawaii teachers, schools and the general public.

Phil Merrell, ILOA Galaxy Forum Coordinator – ILO Galaxy First Light Imaging and Exploration

Native-Hawaiians have for many centuries used Astronomy for navigation, story-telling, time-keeping, and education. Now, with the ideal location and environment atop Mauna Kea, Hawaii is home to a number of significant world-class astronomical observatories. The next step for Hawaii includes ambitious locally rooted interglobal efforts towards human and robotic space exploration. The ILOA is working on 3 missions to the Moon. The primary ILO-1 Mission, planned for as early as 2014, will establish a full-scale multifunctional observation / communication instrument on the surface of the lunar south pole and act as a permanent toe-hold for human development. The ILO-X Mission, is a precursor proof-of-concept mission that is currently in Flight Certification Design phase and may fly aboard the Moon Express bid to win the Google Lunar X Prize. Also the State of Hawaii program PISCES is working towards an International Lunar Research Park (ILRP), and aims to provide a state-of-the-art lunar analog testing site here on Hawaii for the next generation of exploration technologies.

The newspaper covered the Galaxy Forum story on 19 January.

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Galaxy Forum Hawaii 2011 – Hilo

Saturday 19 November 2011 @ ‘Imiloa Astronomy Center

(Credit: ILOA, ‘Imiloa)

ILOA Galaxy Forum Hawaii programs continue with this event in Hilo on the Big Island, themed Hawaii as Galaxy Central.

Native-Hawaiians have for many centuries used Astronomy for navigation, story-telling, time-keeping, and education. Now, with the ideal location and environment atop Mauna Kea, Hawaii is home to a number of significant world-class astronomical observatories. The next step for Hawaii includes ambitious locally rooted interglobal efforts towards human and robotic space exploration. The ILOA is working on 3 missions to the Moon. The primary ILO-1 Mission, planned for as early as 2014, will establish a full-scale multifunctional observation / communication instrument on the surface of the lunar south pole and act as a permanent toe-hold for human development. The ILO-X Mission, is a precursor proof-of-concept mission that is currently in Flight Certification Design phase and may fly aboard the Moon Express bid to win the Google Lunar X Prize. Also the State of Hawaii program PISCES is working towards an International Lunar Research Park (ILRP), and aims to provide a state-of-the-art lunar analog testing site here on Hawaii for the next generation of exploration technologies.

The event took place at the ‘Imiloa Astronomy Center, “a place of life‐long learning where the power of Hawai‘i’s cultural traditions, its legacy of exploration, and the wonders of astronomy come together to provide inspiration and hope for generations”. The exciting program includes:

Steve Durst of ILOA / Space Age: Official launch of the ILOA Galaxy 21st Century Education Poster and Native-Hawaii Astronomy DVD

[youtube http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=UPpVGvXFO8w&w=420&h=315]

Kimo Pihana and Koa Rice, Native Hawaiian Cultural Perspective on Astronomy and Education

Dr. Marianne Takamiya of UH-Hilo Astronomy: Galaxy Astronomy and Education in Hawaii

click here to see Dr. Takamiya’s presentation

Phil Merrell of International Lunar Observatory Association: ILOA Missions – Hawaii to the Moon

Shawn Laatsch of ‘Imiloa Astronomy Center Hawai’i: Tour of the Milky Way (Planetarium)

Later in the evening, after the conclusion of Galaxy Forum, Imiloa hosts their monthly astronomy talk Mauna Kea Skies, starting at 7:00pm.

Click on the image below for a full-size version of our flier for this event.

Hawaii radio stations B93 and KWXX aired an ILOA Galaxy Forum PSA during the weeks leading up to the event. Hear it now by clicking play:

The Hawaii newspaper covered the build-up to our event in the Community News section on November 2nd.

Back to top for all upcoming 2011 events
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Galaxy Forum Hawaii 2011 – Kona

Saturday 29 January 2011 @ The Onizuka Space Center

Special Presentation:

Native Hawaiian Cultural Practicioners Ali‘i Kimo Pihana and Koa Rice: Hawai‘i Culture and Galaxy 21st Century Education

A DVD of the presentation will be available soon.

Special ‘Galaxy Star Awards’ were given to Jon Lomberg of Galaxy Garden and Una Burns of West Hawaii Exploration Academy.

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Galaxy Forum Hawaii 2010 – Hapuna

Thursday 16 December 2010 (4:00 – 5:30pm) @ Hapuna Beach Prince Resort

Special Presentation:

Native Hawaiian Cultural Practicioners Ali‘i Kimo Pihana and Koa Rice: Hawai‘i Culture and Galaxy 21st Century Education

Guests included Hawaii Island Galaxy Education pioneers and special invited guests.

Galaxy Star Awards were presented to Kimo, Koa and Kumiko Usuda of Subaru Telescope

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Galaxy Forum Hawaii 2010 – Honolulu

Tuesday 16 November (4:15 – 6pm) @ The Bishop Museum Planetarium

Download the Galaxy Forum Oahu flyer here.

Presentations:

• • Mary Beth Laychak, Canada France Hawaii Telescope: Galaxy Research and Education at Canada France Hawaii Telescope [to be published soon]

• • Mike Shanahan, Director of Bishop Museum Planetarium [Planetarium presentation]

• Steve Durst, Space Age Publishing Company, International Lunar Observatory Association – Founder: International Lunar Observatory (ILO) Galaxy First Light Imaging Program. (4.44 MB)

Mahalo to the O‘ahu teachers who particiated: Debra Gochros (‘Ewa Makai Middle School), Lina Fukuda (Adjunct Instructor, Leeward CC) and Lillian Yanagawa (Kalani High School).
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Galaxy Forum Hawaii 2010 – Hilo

23 May 2010 (10:30am – 12:30pm) @ ‘Imiloa Astronomy Center

Click here to view the announcement or download the PDF flyer.

The final of three 2010 Hawaii Island Galaxy Forum events was substantial in content with robust presentations from East Hawaii education, astronomy and Hawaiian culture specialists.

In attendance were a few local teachers and educators as well as interested member of the general public.

The Hawaii Tribune Herald wrote two stories on the Galaxy Forum Hilo event:

• Speakers Illuminate our Galaxy, Hawaii Tribune-Herald , 22 May 2010
• Get to Know Your Place in the Universe at Galaxy Forum, Hawaii Tribune-Herald , 21 May 2010

Presentations:

• Shawn Laatsch, Planetarium Director, ‘Imiloa Astronomy Center: Milky Way Galaxy Planetarium presentation
• Dr. Kumiko Usuda: Education Outreach Scientist, Subaru Telescope: Teaching Galaxy Education in Hawai‘i’s Classrooms (6.15 MB)
• Peter Michaud, Public Information and Outreach, Gemini Observatory: Gemini Astronomy and Galaxy Research (3.56 MB)
• Kimo Pihana & Koa Rice: Hawaiian Culture and Galaxy Education (2.66 MB)

Local videographer Brad White taped the event and will be producing another DVD of Dr. Usuda’s excellent Galaxy Education talk for distribution to teachers to add to their science unit.
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Galaxy Forum Hawaii 2010 – Waimea

18 March 2010 (5:30pm – 7:30pm) @ Canada France Hawaii Telescope Headquarters

Presentations:

• Mary Beth Laychak: Education Outreach Astronomer, Canada France Hawaii Telescope: Public Outreach and Galaxy Research at CFHT (2.09 MB)
• Kimo Pihana, Native Hawaiian Cultural Practicioner / ILOA Director: Kumulipo the Creation of the Universe (1.81 MB)
• Steve Durst / Joseph Sulla: ‘Galaxy Moon:’ ILO Galaxy First Light Imaging Program International Lunar Observatory Association (2.63 MB)

Says Mary Beth Laychak: “Everyone who attended really seemed to enjoy the forum. I had several excellent conversations afterwards with some very interested people.”

Also in attendance:

• Jim Johnson, Hawaii Dept. of Education teacher, Navigator
• Marc Saks, teacher / administrator, Hualalai Academy
• James Stewart, retired educator
• Jesse Tarnas, student, CFHT summer intern
• members of the general public

Click here to see “Galaxy Forum Hawaii 2010 — Waimea” announcement.
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Galaxy Forum Hawaii 2010 – Kona

30 January 2010 (10:30am – 12:30pm) @ Onizuka Space Center

Click to read “Stellar academics: Forum stresses importance of astronomy education” West Hawaii Today, 31 January by Chelsea Jensen.

Dr. Kumiko Usuda, Education Outreach Scientist of Subaru Telescope, gave an excellent and spirited presentation on How to Teach Galaxy Education to Students (11 MB), from preschool thru college.

A DVD of Galaxy Forum Kona was filmed and produced by Hawai‘i Island Video. ILOA is distributing these DVDs to teachers around the Island for their classrooms.

In attendance:

• West Hawaii Explorations Academy high school science teacher Una Burns
• Innovation Public Charter School middle school science teacher Megan Dehning
• Onizuka Space Center Director and Educator Nancy Tashima
• Hawaii Island / State Representative Cindy Evans (North Kona, South Kohala)
• Videographer Brad White
• ILOA Directors Steve Durst and Charles Bohannan
• Members of the general public, including a few young students

Click here to see “Galaxy Forum Hawaii 2010 — Kona” announcement.
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Galaxy Forum Hawaii 2009 – Mauna Kea Workshop

Download the Hawaii Island Galaxy Forum 21st Centruy Education Flyer. (322kb PDF)

The focus of this meeting was to engage Hawaii Island’s teachers, education advocates and astronomers to plan and implement 21st Century Galaxy Education and awareness in Hawaii’s local schools and classrooms–elementary and secondary, public and private.

Present were Helene Hale, James Kimo Pihana, teachers from Hilo, Kona, and Waimea, Kumiko Usuada of Subaru telescope and ILOA Executive Directors.

Topics include:

• How can “Getting to Know Our Place in the Universe” inspire, engage and influence the minds of keiki (children) in our classrooms?
• How can we integrate Native Hawaiian culture into 21st Century Galaxy Education?
• How can Galaxy / Astronomy Science and Galaxy Education materials be integrated into the K-12 standards-based education system?
• How can Hawai’i Island educators utilize the world-class resources of science and astronomy on this island?

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Galaxy Forum Hawaii 2009 – Hilo

Sunday 17 May 2009 (10:30am – 12:30) @ ‘Imiloa Astronomy Center

The Galaxy Forum Hawaii – Hilo attracted about 30 people to the Classroom Conference Room at the ‘Imiloa Astronomy Center at “Astronomy Row” in Hilo, Hawaii Island.

Teachers and educators representing Hilo schools were in attendance, and some participated in the follow-up panel discussion. This includes:

• Hilo High School: Serena Nishihara (Kumu Serena)
• Waiakea High School: Eric Hagiwara
• Dept. of Education: Dr. Orloski

Presenters included:

• Leilehua Yuen and Ali‘i Kimo Pihana, “Native Hawai‘i Astronomy and Cosmology”
• Shawn Laatsch, ‘Imiloa Astronomy Center: Planetarium Galaxy Presentation
• Robert Fox, PISCES and UH Hilo Astronomy Department:
• Kumiko Usuda, Subaru Telescope: “Make Your Own Milky Way Models”
• ILOA: “International Lunar Observatory Galaxy First Light Imaging”

The event concluded with a lively panel discussion on advancing and enhancing general science education in Hawai‘i

Also in attendance were supportive members of the general public.

Special thanks to Helene Hale for her time and particiaption at this pioneer Hawaii Island event.

Click here to view the Galaxy Forum Hawaii — Hilo webpage and download the flyer.
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Galaxy Forum Hawaii 2009 – Waimea

Thursday 19 March 2009 (5:30 – 7:30pm) @ Parker School

The Galaxy Forum Hawaii – Waimea attracted about 30 people to Parker School.

Teachers representing various West and North Hawaii schools were in attendance, and some participated in the follow-up panel discussion. This includes:

• Honoka‘a High School: John Dustin
• Waimea Middle School: Jade Bowman
• Parker School: Maren Oom
• Hawaii Preparatroy Academy: Dr. Kristal Blacksmith
• Konawaena High School: Jim Wiley

Presenters included:

• Moana Pihana: Opening Chant
• Steve Durst, ILOA: “Introduction to Galaxy Education in the 21st Century”
• Ali‘i Kimo Pihana: “Native Hawai‘i Astronomy and Cosmology”
• Jon Lomberg: “The Galaxy Garden as a Model for Galaxy Education”
• Jean-Charles Cuillandre, Canada France Hawaii Telescope: “Our Milky Way Among the Galaxies”
• Joseph Sulla, ILOA: “International Lunar Observatory Galaxy First Light Imaging”

Special thanks to David Corrigan of Big Island Video News for video coverage of the event.

Click here to view the Galaxy Forum Hawaii — Waimea webpage and download the flyer.
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Galaxy Forum Hawaii 2009 – Kona

Saturday 31 January 2009 (10 am – 12:00pm) @ Onizuka Space Center

The Galaxy Forum Hawaii – Kona, the first of its kind in Hawaii, was an exciting and successful event. Onizuka Space Center Curator Nancy Tashima opened the doors to the community for the event, which attracted about 30 people and filled the theater to capacity.

Presenters included:

• Jon Lomberg — “The Galaxy Garden as a Model for Galaxy Education” link: http://GalaxyGarden.net
• Kumiko Usuda (Subaru Telescope) — “Make Your Own Milky Way Models”
• Tonomori Usuda (Subaru Telescope) — “The Mystery of Galactic Supernovae”
• Steve Durst (ILOA / Space Age Publishing Company) — “International Lunar Observatory Galaxy First Light Imaging”

A special thank you goes to teacher Una Burns of West Hawaii Explorations Academy for her participation.

Click here to download flyer.
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