Imiloa Astronomy Center

ʻImiloa Astronomy Center sits on nine acres within the University of Hawaiʻi at Hilo's Science and Technology Park, where Hawaiian cultural traditions and modern astronomy come together under one roof. Opened in 2006, the 40,000-square-foot facility was built to honor Maunakea by connecting early Polynesian navigation history with the discoveries made by contemporary astronomers working atop the mountain. The center's name — ʻImiloa — means "to seek far" in Hawaiian, capturing the spirit of both the navigators who crossed the Pacific by the stars and the scientists who map the universe from Hawaiʻi Island today. The center offers four rentable spaces for private events, from the 150-seat Moanahōkū Hall with its stage and dramatic lighting to Hawaiʻi Island's only planetarium, which seats 120 for exclusive screenings or presentations. A 12,000-square-foot Exhibit Hall filled with astronomy and Hawaiian culture displays provides an exceptional backdrop for receptions and dinners. On-site dining is available through Lehua Restaurant.