The University of Hawaii has officially launched initial science operations for its new robotic laser adaptive optics system, known as Robo-AO-2, at the 2.2-meter telescope. This development represents a significant advancement in astronomical imaging, enabling researchers to capture sharper images of hundreds of celestial objects each night while minimizing the need for human intervention.
The project is spearheaded by Christoph Baranec, an esteemed astronomer at the University of Hawaii Institute for Astronomy (IfA). Baranec remarked, “Making Robo-AO-2 operational represents years of dedicated engineering and innovation.” He emphasized that this system exemplifies how facilities at the University of Hawaii are at the forefront of technological advancements that ultimately benefit the world’s largest telescopes and space missions.
Upcoming Celestial Events in December
As the nights grow longer in December, Hawaii’s skies will host several spectacular celestial events. One of the highlights is the Geminids meteor shower, which is expected to peak on the night of December 13 and into the early morning of December 14. Stargazers will have the opportunity to witness up to 120 meteors per hour during this period. The Geminids are particularly noteworthy as they originate from the asteroid 3200 Phaethon, setting them apart from most meteor showers that are typically associated with comets. Observers should seek areas free from light pollution for optimal viewing, especially after midnight.
In addition to the meteor shower, December 21 will mark the winter solstice, the shortest day and longest night of the year in the Northern Hemisphere. Following this date, days will gradually lengthen, offering more opportunities for evening stargazing.
Hawaiian Star Families Illuminate the Night
During December nights, two prominent star families will be visible: Kalupeakawelo and Makali‘i. Kalupeakawelo, also known as the Kite of Kawelo, will be easily seen near the center of the sky in early evening. This star line is part of the four great navigational star lines of the Polynesian Voyaging Society, characterized by the Great Square of Pegasus, which symbolizes the body of the kite soaring above.
The legend surrounding Kalupeakawelo speaks of Kawelo, a chief from Kauai who showcased his supernatural abilities in a kite-flying contest, leaving spectators in awe. This star formation serves as a reminder of Kawelo’s ingenuity and the ancestral knowledge that has been passed down through generations.
Rising higher in the eastern sky, the Makali‘i star cluster, known as the Pleiades, will also captivate observers with its brilliant blue stars. This cluster holds deep cultural significance in Hawaiian tradition, marking the onset of the Makahiki season—a period of peace, rest, and harvest. Makali‘i will be visible just after sunset, steadily climbing throughout the night, symbolizing abundance and reflection.
Adding to the allure of the December sky, both Saturn and Jupiter will be prominently visible in the southern sky. While Saturn’s iconic rings can be observed through a telescope, Jupiter, being the brighter and closer of the two gas giants, will be easily spotted with the naked eye. Stargazers using binoculars can also view Jupiter’s four largest moons—Io, Europa, Ganymede, and Callisto—first documented by Galileo in 1610.
In the early morning hours, Hawaii’s early risers can admire the full size of the Ka‘iwikuamo‘o constellation. This constellation, which stretches from the North Star (Hokupa‘a) to the Southern Cross (Hanaiakamalama), will rise in the southeast approximately one hour before dawn. It holds substantial cultural significance, as it was used for celestial navigation during voyages from the southern islands to Hawaii.
The ‘Imiloa Astronomy Center of Hawaii serves as a hub for informal science education, showcasing the interconnectedness of astronomy and Hawaiian culture as parallel journeys of human exploration. As December unfolds, both the Robo-AO-2 system and the stunning celestial events present a unique opportunity for astronomers and stargazers alike to engage with the wonders of the night sky.
