Astronaut Ellison Onizuka Science Day returns to UH Hilo Jan. 24

The University of Hawaiʻi at Hilo Pacific International Space Center for Exploration Systems (PISCES), in partnership with the Onizuka Family, Onizuka Memorial Foundation, Hawaiʻi Science and Technology Museum, and Canada-France-Hawaiʻi Telescope, invites the public to the 21st Astronaut Ellison Onizuka Science Day Saturday, January 24, from 7:45 a.m. - 2:30 p.m. on the UH Hilo campus. This free, all-ages event celebrates the legacy of Hawaiʻi’s first astronaut while inspiring students to explore the fields of science, technology, engineering, and math (STEM).

“This exciting event will include an Ask-Me-Anything session with NASA astronaut Donald R. Pettit, hands-on workshops for students in grades 3–12 (registration required), STEM exhibits and demonstrations, special guest speakers, food trucks, and a state-qualifying VEX IQ Robotics tournament,” said PISCES Director Christian Andersen.

This year’s Ellison Onizuka Science Day resumes at UH Hilo after the event was paused due to the COVID-19 pandemic. The event also commemorates the 40th anniversary of the Space Shuttle Challenger tragedy while honoring Astronaut Ellison Onizuka’s enduring legacy and commitment to education.

“Ellison Onizuka was from the Big Island, and he showed the world what is possible when we dream big, work hard, and have fun,” said PISCES Engineer and Project Manager Amber Imai-Hong. “We are excited to bring Ellison Onizuka Science Day back to our community, providing an opportunity to explore the exciting world of STEM, and we hope it inspires keiki to pursue their own dreams, no matter how big.”

Workshop sessions will be assigned on a first-come, first-served basis so families are encouraged to register early to secure their student’s preferred workshop. For more information and to register, visit: bit.ly/onizuka-day.

The event is sponsored by American Savings Bank, covering travel expenses for the NASA astronaut, and KTA Super Stores, providing student lunches.

PISCES is an aerospace research and education program at UH Hilo’s College of Natural and Health Sciences. Founded in 2007, PISCES develops aerospace technology to help humans live and work beyond Earth. The program’s applied research projects offer unique opportunities for high school and undergraduate students to learn hands-on work skills and gain real-world research experience. Learn more at www.pacificspacecenter.com.