Maunakea Stellar Explorer Hilo

Experience an extraordinary journey into the wonders of the universe with the Maunakea Stellar Explorer, a unique adventure that blends daytime solar viewing with breathtaking nighttime stargazing. Discover the beauty of Hawaii’s Big Island as your exploration begins in historic Hilo town, traveling past the scenic waterfront to the iconic Rainbow Falls and the dramatic Boiling Pots along the Wailuku River. Learn about the island’s volcanic power while exploring Kaumana Caves, part of a remarkable lava tube system formed during an 1881 eruption. Explore the awe-inspiring landscapes between Mauna Kea and Mauna Loa as your National Park Service trained guide shares deep insights into volcanology, geology, native flora, fauna, and the cultural history of these monumental volcanoes.

Discover the sun in vivid detail through a state of the art solar telescope, safely observing vibrant solar flares, sunspots, and prominences in true color. Experience the transition from daylight exploration to an unforgettable night beneath some of the darkest and most pristine skies on Earth. Learn about distant galaxies, nebulae, star clusters, and planets as you observe through a powerful Dobsonian telescope designed for wide field celestial viewing. Explore the cosmos in a way few ever do, guided by some of Hawaii’s most experienced stellar experts, before warming up with Kona coffee or hot chocolate and reflecting on a truly out-of-this-world adventure.