This year, the Institute was recognized for its research on ghost galaxies and the expanding galaxy theory. The student organizations support a native Hawaiian agenda. Over the last two years, many Hawaiians have criticized the handling of Mauna Kea. These kinds of ceremonies are one reason Hawaiian activists have asked for the cultural consideration regarding Mauna Kea. Besides the native Hawaiians, another group concerned about Mauna Kea is the Sierra Club, which is looking at enviornmental concerns.
Space is one of the last places for humankind to explore.
Curiosity and the search for knowledge point to the stars. This process may now be slowed. Some critics say that a society cannot expect to advance if cultural and environmental concerns are placed overzealously into the mix. Although technology and new knowledge have given society so much, so has every culture. And for that matter, the one and only environment has given so much too.