Institute for Astronomy

University of Hawaiʻi

 

Latest News & Updates

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.

UH 88″ Telescope Receives IEEE Milestone

The University of Hawaiʻi’s 2.2-meter (88 inch) telescope on Maunakea has been recognized by the Institute of Electrical and Electronics Engineers (IEEE) as an IEEE Milestone, a significant honor spotlighting innovations that changed the world.

UH astronomers discover the biggest explosion since the Big Bang

A team at the University of Hawaiʻi’s Institute for Astronomy (IfA) has uncovered a dazzling new kind of cosmic explosion, more energetic than anything seen before.

23rd AstroDay inspires keiki through science and stars

Crowds gathered at Prince Kūhiō Plaza in Hilo on May 3 for AstroDay 2025, a free celebration of science, technology and space exploration. Faculty, staff and students from the University of Hawaiʻi Institute for Astronomy (IfA) were among scientists and scholars...

Maunakea telescope tunes into music of nearby star, unveils surprising discovery

A team of astronomers led by Yaguang Li, a postdoctoral fellow at the University of Hawaiʻi Institute for Astronomy (IfA), has used a Maunakea telescope to listen to the music of a nearby star, uncovering surprises that shake our understanding of how stars work.

UH astronomer finds the universe could be spinning

A new study in Monthly Notices of the Royal Astronomical Society by researchers including István Szapudi of the University of Hawaiʻi at Mānoa Institute for Astronomy suggests the universe may rotate—just extremely slowly. The finding could help solve one of...

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