Story perspectives

Hawaiian Students Use Gemini North to Image Galaxy Merger

9/8/2026

Summary

Story summary

Students from Waiakea High and Volcano School used Gemini North to image merging galaxies NGC 7253.
The image was titled Na 'Uhane Mahoe Huki Pu i ke Ola, meaning “Twin Spirits Pulling Together Creating Life.”
The galaxies lie about 200 million light-years away in Pegasus, also called the Hawaiian constellation Ka Lupe o Kawelo.
Students accessed Gemini North via the Project Hokulani internship, noting the merger will combine gas and dust, sparking new stars.

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Story summary

Students from Waiakea High and Volcano School used Gemini North to image merging galaxies NGC 7253.
The image was titled Na 'Uhane Mahoe Huki Pu i ke Ola, meaning “Twin Spirits Pulling Together Creating Life.”
The galaxies lie about 200 million light-years away in Pegasus, also called the Hawaiian constellation Ka Lupe o Kawelo.
Students accessed Gemini North via the Project Hokulani internship, noting the merger will combine gas and dust, sparking new stars.