The University of Hawaii’s Institute for Astronomy has commenced initial science operations for Robo-AO-2, an advanced robotic laser adaptive optics system. This new technology promises to enhance astronomical observations significantly by correcting distortions caused by Earth’s atmosphere. Under the leadership of astronomer Christoph Baranec, Robo-AO-2 will enable astronomers to capture sharper images of hundreds of celestial objects each night with minimal human intervention.
Baranec emphasized the importance of this achievement, stating, “Making Robo-AO-2 operational represents years of dedicated engineering and innovation.” He highlighted that the system exemplifies how facilities at the University of Hawaii are at the forefront of developing technologies that eventually benefit some of the world’s largest telescopes and space missions.
Upcoming Celestial Events in December
December brings a series of spectacular celestial events, beginning with the renowned Geminids meteor shower, which peaks on the night of December 13, continuing into the early hours of December 14. During this period, observers can expect to see up to 120 meteors per hour. Unique among meteor showers, the Geminids originate from the asteroid 3200 Phaethon, rather than the more common comets. While the meteors will be visible across the sky, they appear to radiate from the constellation Gemini. Optimal viewing conditions will be found after midnight, away from light pollution.
In addition to the meteor shower, the winter solstice on December 21 will mark the shortest day and longest night of the year in the Northern Hemisphere. Following the solstice, days will gradually lengthen.
As the nights grow longer, Hawaii’s evening sky will be illuminated by two prominent star families: Kalupeakawelo and Makali‘i. Kalupeakawelo, also known as the Kite of Kawelo, will be prominently visible during early evening hours. This star line, part of the four great navigational star lines established by the Polynesian Voyaging Society, includes the Great Square of Pegasus, which represents the body of the kite soaring overhead. Surrounding it are the W-shaped constellation of ‘Iwakeli‘i (Cassiopeia) and the houselike Kamo‘i (Cepheus) to the north.
According to legend, Kawelo, a chief from Kauai, showcased his extraordinary abilities during a kite-flying contest that astounded onlookers. The Kalupeakawelo star family serves as a lasting reminder of Kawelo’s ingenuity and the ancestral knowledge preserved through these stars.
Rising higher in the eastern sky, the Makali‘i star cluster, known as the Pleiades, is a brilliant assembly of blue stars. This cluster holds significant cultural importance as a celestial marker for the Makahiki season, a time associated with peace, rest, and harvest. The appearance of Makali‘i, along with natural indicators such as the arrival of kolea birds and the Hilo moon phase, signifies a season of abundance and reflection. Observers can spot Makali‘i sparkling near the eastern horizon shortly after sunset, steadily climbing throughout the night.
Stargazing Highlights for December
Both Saturn and Jupiter will also enhance the December sky, shining brightly in the southern hemisphere. Saturn’s iconic rings are best viewed through a telescope, while Jupiter, being the brighter and closer of the two gas giants, is easily observable with the naked eye. Stargazers equipped with binoculars can catch a glimpse of Jupiter’s four largest moons—Io, Europa, Ganymede, and Callisto—first documented by Galileo in 1610.
In the pre-dawn hours, early risers in Hawaii can witness the full expanse of the Ka‘iwikuamo‘o constellation, which ascends from the southeast about an hour before sunrise. This constellation is rich in cultural significance, serving as a celestial guide for voyages from the southern islands to Hawaii.
The ‘Imiloa Astronomy Center of Hawaii, located at the University of Hawaii at Hilo, offers a unique blend of astronomy and Hawaiian culture, showcasing both fields as parallel journeys of human exploration. As the December sky unfolds, astronomers and stargazers alike can look forward to a month filled with awe-inspiring celestial phenomena.
