Preparing next generation space explorers with two new UH Mānoa minors
Students in the Earth and Planetary Exploration and Technology Certificate program
Located in one of the most geographically isolated locations on Earth, the University of Hawai‘i (UH) has established itself as a world-renowned leader in space-related programs. This month, UH Mānoa approved two new undergraduate minors, one in Earth and Planetary Exploration and Technology and the other in Human Space Flight Technology—bolstering opportunities for the next generation of space explorers.
The two minors will be administered by the Hawai’i Institute of Geophysics and Planetology (HIGP) in the UH Mānoa School of Ocean and Earth Science and Technology. The objective of these programs is to provide professional education in the expanding field of human space flight and broaden access to space system science and technology education for UH Mānoa students, with special emphasis on including historically underrepresented groups.
“Space exploration is an interdisciplinary field that is growing at UH Mānoa, in the State, nationally and internationally” said Peter Englert, professor in HIGP and program chair for the new academic opportunities. “The successful establishment of the Earth and Planetary Exploration and Technology Certificate program in 2020 provided a model for the establishment of the new minors. These offerings will increase the number of UH students with qualifications to enter the space workforce with their chosen majors.”
Englert anticipates that students of physical sciences, astronomy, computer science, and engineering will be interested in pursuing the Earth and Planetary Exploration and Technology minor. The Human Space Flight Technology minor, which has a strong component of life sciences, space life support technology, human factors, space ethics, and comparative space policy, is likely to generate more interest among students interested in the new space economy from social sciences to business. Undergraduate students can enroll for the minors beginning in spring 2025.
“With the missions to return to the Moon and current revolution in technology, this innovative educational program will allow for UH students to get involved with internships, fellowships, and leadership opportunities in our future as a spacefaring civilization,” said co-instructor, Ari Eisenstat with the Hawaiʻi Research Center for Future Studies.
For more information on the minors and how to enroll, students can contact Englert or visit the EPET program website.
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