Saturday Night Programs

The Universe Tonight

On the first Saturday of each month, the Visitor Information Station (VIS) hosts The Universe Tonight, a special presentation on the current research and discoveries occurring on Mauna Kea. The presentation begins at 6:00 PM and is followed by the regular evening stargazing program at the VIS.

The Universe Tonight typically features an astronomer from one of the observatories on Mauna Kea giving a presentation on recent observations and discoveries from their telescope. Observatories are on a rotating schedule. If you would like to know about upcoming presentations, please call the VIS at (808) 961 2180 during operational hours. Click here for Universe Tonight events »

U.H. Hilo Astrophysics Club

The Astrophysics Club at the University of Hawaii at Hilo hosts the stargazing program on the second Saturday of each month during the school year. The students that partake in this club are mainly aspiring astronomers actively involved in the cutting edge of astronomy with the faculty at the local university.

Malalo o Ka Po Lani

On the third Saturday of the month, the VIS hosts Malalo o ka Po Lani, a special presentation covering cultural components that surround Mauna O Wakea. The presentation begins at 6:00 PM and is followed by the regular evening stargazing program.
Each month features a different speaker from the community who will speak about Mauna O Wakea from a cultural perspective.

Click here to view past and future culture program events.

International Music Night

For the fourth Saturday of the month, the international Volunteers from the University of Hawaii at Hilo and Hawaii Community College grace the visitors with music during the stargazing program. A variety of instruments, singers and genres of music are heard during this whimsical night.