Institute for Astronomy

The Institute for Astronomy (IfA) is a research institute within the University of Hawaii, with offices and laboratories on Oahu, Maui, and Hawai`i Island, plus observatories on the summits of Mauna Kea and Haleakala. With a staff of 81 PhDs from 26 different countries, we are one of the largest university astronomy programs in the world. Our goals are to Explore the origin and nature of the Universe, and of the galaxies, stars, planets, and other matter that it contains. Develop new technologies for use in ground-based and space-based observatories. Spread the understanding of astronomy through our graduate program, through undergraduate courses, and through public education.