Mauna Kea Visitors Information Station
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Onizuka Center for International Astronomy
One of the major opportunities students have in Hilo is to visit the
Visitors Information Station (VIS) on Mauna Kea. The drive to the VIS
takes about an hour and begins at Hilo, traveling up Saddle Road to
the 28 mile marker. A right turn on the access paved road goes for 6.2
miles to the facility. Located at the 2,800 meter level (9,300 feet),
the VIS is above the elevation of most of the major telescopes on Earth
as well as typical weather. Clear, dry, dark skies offer views through
a number of available telescopes at the VIS which include a 16"
Meade, a 14" Celestron, and a 11" Celestron telescopes. Although
the summit of Mauna Kea offers even better conditions for telescope
equipment, the lower level of oxygen at 4,205 meters (13,792 feet) does
not allow the individual to see any better. In addition, only four-wheel
drive vehicles are recommended above the VIS.
Resident Life trips to the VIS usually depart in the afternoons so that
students have a chance to view a beautiful member of the sunflower family
(Asteraceae - subspecies A.sandwicense
ssp. sandwicense) or the more commonly known as “silver sword.”
The leaves on these plants are sword-shaped and are covered with silvery
hairs that reflect light and heat while providing insulation against
the intense solar radiation and extreme aridity at this elevation. Leaving
early also allows time to ascent one of the cider cones facing the VIS
for the sunset. For those that don’t want to make the climb, a
telescope is usually brought out of the VIS so that safe views of sunsets
are possible.
“Malalo I ka Lani Po” programs are usually held the 3rd Saturday of every month, but are subject to change. At these presentations, a special speaker from the community speaks on a cultural aspect of Mauna Kea. The presentations normally begin at 6 pm and are followed by the stargazing program.
Students should be aware that layered clothing and good shoes are extremely important on this trip. Although the temperature may be mild in Hilo, temperatures drop quickly on the mountain running between 28 to 50 degrees and sometimes even colder. Long pants, gloves, and hats make viewing much more comfortable. It is advisable to bring a water bottle to help fight the effects of high altitude and lower level of oxygen available in this area. Bring snacks are also a good idea. Hot chocolate, limited food items, and gifts are available for sale at the VIS.
For further information go to the website: http://www.ifa.hawaii.edu/info/vis/index.html or Call Mauna Kea 961-2180, Hilo 974-4205.
Inherent Risks
It is the responsibility of each participant to evaluate the various risks that they may be exposed to if they decide to participate in this program. Some of the inherent risks include, but are not limited to, the following:
- Altitude sickness and/or associated respiratory problems
- Exposure to the sun and cold that can occur these high altitudes
- Dehydration
- Motion sickness traveling up and down Saddle Road or the VIS access road
- Falling or slipping while hiking or walking on uneven dirt trails or paths
- Broken bones, cuts, scrapes, or bruises
- Transportation to and from the various locations on Mauna Kea including the steep grade up and down the mountain & Saddle Road
- A motor vehicle accident or incident
Students are required to remain with the group during this program and not go on un-authorized selected activities or excursions without the group. If transportation is involved, participants must wear seat belts if available and are expected to return with the group.