About Gemini Observatory / NSF NOIRLab

Project Hōkūlani interns at the Gemini Observatory in Hilo, Hawaiʻi will engage in learning about astronomical science and operations alongside a holistic and culturally-grounded understanding of Maunakea. Through field trips and collaborations with various Maunakea-centered organizations, students can experience the many perspectives of Maunakea and the work that takes place on the mauna in studying the universe and protecting the mauna’s sensitive environment.

Projects
★  Visit the Maunakea summit and Hilo base facilities of the Gemini North Telescope.
★ Shadow an observatory profession of your choice including astronomers, scientists, electrical engineers, mechanical engineers, software engineers, technicians, outreach specialists, leadership, administration, human resources, travel coordinator and more.
★ Co-host a public stargazing event withʻOhana Kilo Hōkū.
★ Create a name and description for a Gemini Legacy Image that will be distributed world-wide.
★ Give a brief presentation at the Gemini facility about the internship experience.

Outcome
★ Gain an understanding of how beautiful space images are captured and science is conducted using the Maunakea Observatories and their unique technology.
★ Develop the skills necessary to conduct public stargazing events including knowledge of constellations, the Polynesian Voyaging Starlines, the Kaulana Mahina and how to operate a small telescope.
★ Increase awareness of career diversity on Maunakea including telescope operations and malama Maunakea.

Meet Our Internship Mentor: Leinani Lozi

Leinani Lozi is the Hawaiʻi Education and Engagement Manager at the Gemini North Telescope. She is passionate about indigenous knowledge systems, native plant restoration and providing unique education opportunities for Hawaiʻi keiki. She was born and raised on the island of Oʻahu in Koʻolaupoko and has lived in Hilo since 2013 where she graduated from the University of Hawaiʻi at Hilo. Leinani loves volunteer in aloha ʻāina activities like restoring fishpond walls at Hale O Lono or planting mamane and koa trees on Maunakea.

2026 Internship Schedule:

• Spring 2026: 8 hour visit in February date TBD; and Monday through Friday, March 16-20, 2025, times TBD

Internship Meeting Location:

670 N. A’ohoku Place
Hilo, Hawaii, 96720