In response to the interruption of hands-on science education and outreach during the COVID-19 crisis, the Maunakea Observatories (MKO) have unveiled a distance learning program, MKO@Home online. The virtual project consists of short weekly videos that feature astronomy related activities, demonstrations and interviews.
“The Maunakea Observatories recognize the severe educational difficulties that COVID-19 is creating for the community, and we are doing as much as we can to address this challenge. We are rallying all of our outreach resources and will be presenting as much content as possible during this unprecedented crisis,” said Bob McLaren, University of Hawaiʻi Institute for Astronomy interim director.
- Related UH News story:
- ʻImiloa Astronomy Center launches program for families, April 5, 2020
- Maunakea Observatories limit operations in response to COVID-19, March 27, 2020
MKO@Home videos featuring scientists and educators are designed to allow K–12 students and families to explore the universe from home.
Content for the pilot program ranges from lessons on the night sky, to Pōwehi, the now-famous supermassive black hole. The cosmic wonder was given a name in ʻōlelo Hawaiʻi or Hawaiian language by UH Hilo professor Larry Kimura. The name recognizes the instrumental role that observatories on Maunakea played in the worldwide effort to capture an image of a black hole for the first time in history.
April 6–10, MKO@Home will celebrate Black Hole Week and feature demonstrations by Maunakea astronomers about the mysterious objects.
MKO@Home videos are uploaded three times a week on Mondays, Wednesdays and Fridays.
For more, go to Maunakea Observatories.
—By Moanikeʻala Nabarro
