Big Island Attractions

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Imiloa: Exploring the Unknown

Absolutely do not miss the recently opened Imiloa: Astronomy Center of Hawaii. The 300 exhibits in the 12,000-square-foot gallery make the connection between the Hawaiian culture and its explorers, who discovered the Hawaiian Islands, and the astronomers who explore the heavens from the observatories atop Mauna Kea. Imiloa, which means "explorer" or "seeker of profound truth," is the perfect name for this architecturally stunning center, located on 9.1 landscaped acres overlooking Hilo Bay in the University of Hawaii at Hilo Science and Technology Park campus, 600 Imiloa Pl. (tel. 808/969-9700; www.imiloahawaii.org). Plan to spend at least a couple of hours here; a half a day would be better, to allow time to browse the excellent interactive exhibits as well as take in one of the planetarium shows, which boast a state-of-the-art digital projection system. Open Tuesday to Sunday from 9am to 4pm; admission is $15 for adults and $7.50 for children ages 4 to 12.

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