The University of Hawai'i Institute for Astronomy will hold a first-anniversary open house at Maikalani, the institute's Maui Advanced Technology Research Center, from 6 to 8 p.m. Sept. 12, the Maui News reported.

The program will include "Ask a Scientist," an opportunity to have an expert answer questions on astronomy and the technology involved in studying the cosmos, according to an announcement from the institute.

Activities are planned for all ages, with talks on new discoveries, demonstrations, viewing through telescopes and tours of the laboratory where new observatory instruments are designed and fabricated.

Maikalani ("from the heavens") is the support facility for the institute's observatories on the Haleakala summit.

Admission to the open house is free.

The center is at 34 'Ohi'a Ku St. in Kulamalu Town Center. Parking is available on the street.

For information, call 808-573-9500 or visit www.ifa.hawaii.edu/haleakala.