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Mauna Kea Observatory, located on the summit of Mauna Kea on the Big
Island of Hawaii, are an independent collection of the
world's premier astronomical research facilities. It's the
world's largest observatory for optical, infrared, and submillimeter astronomy. |
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There're several reasons why Mauna Kea is a very unique
astronomical observing site. The atmosphere above the
mountain is extremely dry -- which is important in measuring
infrared and submillimeter radiation from celestial sources.
This area is cloud-free, and that means the numbers of clear
nights is among the highest in the world. Telescopes found
at the summit of Mauna Kea are funded by government agencies
of various nations. |
Essential Information
- You will need to obtain a four-wheel drive vehicle,
or take a commercial tour if you want to go to the
summit
- At the summit, less oxygen is available to the
lungs, and acute mountain sickness is common.
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