Opening Eyes to the Skies
Written By Everett Mckee
UH Hilo senior and Astronomy major and Physics minor, Emily Peavy. Photo taken by reporter, Everett Mckee.
Emily Peavy, a student studying in the field of astronomy has continuously added to the growth in the field of astronomy here in the islands of Hawai’i. As a new face to the islands, Peavy has continuously placed herself in to positions that promote and highlight one of the most fantastical jobs not just in the islands, but in the world.
Growing up with her father who also had a deep passion for astronomy, it was not long before she had a chance to take a trip to the slopes of Mauna Kea. The allure of the visitors center and enticing university would be enough cause for her to pursue her studies here in the Big Island. After moving here, Peavey had many opportunities to experience various organizations from the visitor center on Mauna Kea, the Imiloa Astronomy Center, and even the Gemini Observatory Organization.
Peavy’s experience with the Gemini Observatory was something she highlights in her experiences as a student. “[Star-Labs which are] essentially inflatable planetariums, fairly easily transportable. The Gemini Observatory Organization through their outreach encourages schools in the state to borrow them and they give presentations at these schools” Peavy stated. It is through her experiences at the Gemini Observatory that Peavy was given the opportunity to go out to schools in the community such as, Chiefess Kapiolani Elementary School. Volunteering for Peavy is “a fun thing to do because I give presentations on things I talk about all the time”.
As a student she also went on to do other presentations, one in particular, where she had a presentation a few hours before an exam. Although she did suffer a little on her test, the experience and the self reward was enough of a just cause in her eyes. “After I looked back on it, it was better that I had given the presentation because in doing so I might have encouraged future astronomers from the students at the given presentation,” Peavy stated.
In a quick bio, Peavy divulged her status as a graduating senior this semester. Peavy will be graduating with a major in astronomy and a minor in physics. She also gave a brief word on what motivates her to continue her volunteer work with schools. “It’s such a rewarding feeling to see students faces light up after I give a presentation. Just the feeling alone knowing that these kids have a spark for the same passion as I. That feeling worthwhile knowing I made a positive influence”.
Video interview filmed and edited by reporter, Everett Mckee.
This week (February 27- March 6), Peavy stated is Journey Through The Universe Week. During this week, astronomers give presentations to classes about astronomy. Journey through the Universe promotes sustained education in the critical areas of science, technology, engineering and mathematics (STEM), and is a celebration of exploration and the joys of learning science and astronomy.
In 2014, the program celebrated its tenth anniversary on Hawaii Island where over the past decade it has engaged over 50,000 students, visiting over 3,000 classrooms during the Journey week. The scientists, astronomers and, engineers have brought excitement and inspiration about the life-long career possibilities available in STEM fields.
For more information on this astronomical field visit the Gemini Observatory Organization website at http://www.gemini.edu/pio/?q=pio
