KAILUA-KONA -- Learners of all ages are invited to Kona Commons Shopping Center in Kailua-Kona from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. on Saturday, Nov. 2, for AstroDay, an entertainment-filled day of astronomy, robotics and natural sciences.

Sponsored by the Maunakea Observatories, this free, open-air event is an opportunity for the community to meet with scientists and educators and learn how Hawaii contributes to new and amazing discoveries in astronomy.

The Maunakea Observatories and other science-based and community organizations will offer fun and informative demonstrations and activities. Free giveaways will be available while supplies last, and the UH Institute for Astronomy will have a solar telescope on site to safely view the surface of the sun.

Four special grand prize drawings will include two beginner level telescopes and two NASA-themed skateboards. No purchase necessary, but you do need to be present to win. Prize drawing times are 11:30 a.m. and 1:30 p.m.

Participants in AstroDay include: UH Institute for Astronomy, Subaru Telescope, WM Keck Observatory, TMT International, JCMT/East Asian Observatory, Gemini Observatory, Canada-France-Hawaii Telescope, Submillimeter Array, Las Cumbres Observatory, UH IfA Maui.

Other institutions: Project PANOPTES, Maunakea Visitor Information Station, UH Hilo Astrophysics Club, NASA Solar System Ambassadors, Onizuka Space Science Program, National Weather Service, International Lunar Observatory Assoc., Thelma Parker Memorial and School Library, Hawaii Keiki Museum and PISCES.