The Keck Observatory is one of the facilities operating a total of 13 powerful telescopes at the summit of Mauna Kea, sitting high above the clouds for ideal views of the skies above. Visitors are welcome to star gaze and even trek to the top.
The Big Island of Hawaii is not only the largest island in the Hawaiian chain, it also hosts the world’s largest astronomical observatory. Perched on Mauna Kea, a massive, dormant volcano are 13 telescopes operated by astronomers from 11 countries. The mountain rises nearly 14,000 feet above sea level, which places its summit above 40 percent of the Earth’s atmosphere, which means cloudless, clear skies away from city lights—ideal conditions for star gazing and studying the big skies above us.
Because of the extreme elevation, visitors coming up from sea level must become acclimated if they want to proceed to the summit. Waystation facilities were constructed in 1982, which were named in 1986 to honor Ellison Onizuka, an astronaut from the Big Island who died in the Challenger disaster.
The Onizuka Center also includes a Visitor Information Station (VIS), which is open to the public every day of the year from 9 a.m. to 10 p.m. The facility has exhibits about Mauna Kea and its observatories, offers evening star gazing, and provides guided tours to the summit.
If you are planning to visit the summit, it is highly recommend that you stop at the VIS for current weather updates, safety information, and to adjust to the change in altitude. At 14,000 feet, there is 40 percent less oxygen than at sea level, so visitors should rest up for at least 30 minutes before proceeding further up the mountain.
While this is a magnificent place to visit, it is important to follow directions and health advisories. Mauna Kea is one of the only places in the world where you can drive from sea level to 14,000 feet in about two hours, so altitude sickness is highly possible. Anyone in poor health should consult their physician before making the trek. Going beyond the VIS is not recommended for pregnant women, people with heart or respiratory problems, children under 16, and anyone who has been on a scuba dive within 24 hours prior.
Visitors who do want to venture to the summit should check on vehicle requirements and any car rental restrictions. The roadways and trails to the top are in environmentally sensitive areas, so care should be taken to stay on track.
If you plan to hike, it takes about five hours to reach the summit and three to come back down to the VIS, so start early enough to make the round trip in daylight. Take plenty of water and food and be sure to be down at least 30 minutes prior to sunset. There are no restaurants, rest areas, restrooms or public transportation options available along the way.
Visiting magnificent Mauna Kea and the observation areas to virtually “touch the sky” is an amazing experience well worth the time. The Activity Center at the Royal Kona Resort can make all the arrangements for you. For more information, go to www.hawaiihotels.com.