Mauna Kea Observatories, Hawaii
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Mauna Kea Observatories
The
Mauna Kea Observatories can be found on the
peak of Mauna Kea in the island of Hawaii.
The observatories are an
independent collection of research
facilities dedicated to the science of
astronomy. The research facilities occupy
500 acres of land in the Mauna Kea Science
Reserve zoned as the “Astronomy Precinct”,
which was established in 1967. The precinct,
because of its significance
to the Hawaiian culture, is
located in an area under the protection of
the Historical Preservation Act.
The site is ideal for astronomical
observatories because of its dark skies,
clean air, low humidity,
good weather and near
equatorial location. The isolation and
altitude of Mauna Kea in the middle of
the Pacific Ocean makes it
one of the best spots on earth for
ground-based astronomical study.
It is a perfect location
infrared, optical and submillimeter
observations.
Because Mauna Kea’s summit is so high,
scientists and visitors are advised to
acclimate to atmospheric pressure by staying
at the lower portions for about half an hour
before climbing up to the observatories at
peak.
The observatories are managed by the
University of Hawaii, which leases land to
numerous
multi-national facilities.
The university’s lessees have invested over
two billion dollars in advancing the field
of science and technology.
