Institute for Astronomy

University of Hawaiʻi

 

2025-2026 IfA Faculty Search Information

Latest News & Updates

UH astronomers decode a star’s secret past

Astronomers from the University of Hawaiʻi Institute for Astronomy (IfA) have uncovered the turbulent past of a distant red giant by listening to its celestial “song.”

Shape of Supernova: Massive star’s explosive death captured with UH astronomer’s help

Astronomers have captured one of the universe’s most dramatic moments—the instant a massive star exploded and the blast broke through the star’s surface

Flying high, diving deep at Astronaut Lacy Veach Day of Discovery

The University of Hawaiʻi at Mānoa helped inspire hundreds of keiki and community members at the 24th annual Astronaut Lacy Veach Day of Discovery on October 19. Hosted by the Hawaiʻ Space Grant Consortium (HSGC) in partnership with UH Mānoa’s Institute for Astronomy...

Solar rain mystery cracked by UH researchers

It rains on the Sun, and thanks to researchers at the University of Hawaiʻi Institute for Astronomy (IfA), we finally know why.

Founding IfA Director John Jefferies’ Legacy of Support

Solar physicist John T. Jefferies joined the University of Hawai‘i at Mānoa faculty at age 39 in 1964. He was from Australia and had worked at other American universities before arriving in Hawai‘i. Within a year, the young researcher set into motion the beginnings of...

Possible interstellar visitor headed toward Sun discovered by UH telescope

One of the ATLAS telescopes operated by the University of Hawaiʻi has detected the third known interstellar (from outside our solar system) object to enter our solar system. Researchers say that it poses no danger to Earth.

What we do

Research

Our Astronomers  study everything from the Sun to the structure of the Universe, using the best observing sites in the world

Develop

We create cutting-edge instrumentation and technology, and innovative surveys to study the ever-changing night sky

Educate

Our world-class degree programs include a PhD in Astronomy, an undergraduate BA in Astronomy, and a BS in Astrophysics

Engage

Our extensive public outreach program brings astronomy to our community, and our news stories highlight the latest discoveries

Our Vision

To be the premier institution for astronomy research and education, locally, nationally, and internationally, that is respectful of the local culture.

Our Mission

The University of Hawai‘i is located in the most diverse community and environment in the world. We are a globally recognized center of learning and research, with a kuleana to serve the people and places of Hawaiʻi and our neighbors in the Pacific.  The IfA’s mission is to advance scientific understanding of the origin and nature of the universe, by conducting high-impact research, developing new technologies to observe the cosmos, defending the planet from potentially hazardous asteroids, and sharing knowledge of astronomy through education and outreach, in particular engaging with the native Hawaiian community.

Our Values

  • Valuing science as a way to illuminate our place in the universe
  • Maintaining the integrity of the scientific process
  • Revering the natural environment, including the dark skies
  • Respecting Native Hawaiian practices and philosophies
  • Affirming the international character of academic research
Aerial view of telescopes on Maunakea

Astronomy in Hawaii

Institute for Astronomy