Maui and its dormant volcano, Haleakala, is providing a unique vantage point for scientists and astronomers to study and monitor all kinds of situations in space. That work is explained in a newly-released, short film called “Maui in Space.” Produced by Maui Economic Development Board, the video, according to physical scientist Dr. Stacie Williams of the Air Force Research Laboratory, shows a collaboration by MEDB, the Air Force and the University of Hawaii Institute of Astronomy. “Our society revolves around using space…The video shows Maui’s global contribution to space situational awareness,” Williams said. “It’s an educational video that shows the importance of the work being done here.”

Maui in Space can be viewed at: http://youtu.be/dtmKBEG4cEA.

MEDB, with support from the County of Maui, produced the film as an introduction to astronomy on-island and the Department of Defense’s efforts in work and research around space situational awareness. “I think MEDB did a nice job,” said Williams, who appears in the video along with other Air Force Lab officials and researchers with UH’s Institute of Astronomy. The video provides information on high-tech instruments such as the 3.6-meter, Advanced Electro-Optical System (AEOS) telescope and how it’s used at the Maui Space Surveillance Site atop Haleakala.

Williams said the film will help her to carry out the Air Force’s commitment to Maui and the community as she uses it to educate teachers and inspire students in grades K-12 to explore the field of math and science. “What I want to do is show it to students so that they can see you don’t have to leave Maui to work in high-tech careers. There are jobs here,” she said. “I think it’s very important to show children that science can be engaging and very interesting and this video does that.” Williams said the film could also help orient island newcomers and new employees in the technology field on Maui. “I think it’s a nice introduction for them to know what’s going on here,” she said.