Onizuka Center for International Astronomy facts for kids
The Onizuka Center for International Astronomy, also known as Hale Pōhaku, is a special place on Hawaiʻi island. It helps support the huge telescopes and other tools at the Mauna Kea Observatory. This observatory sits high up on Mauna Kea, a very tall mountain.
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Discovering Mauna Kea's Secrets
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In the 1930s, some simple cabins called Hale Pōhaku were built on Mauna Kea. Hale Pōhaku means "stone house" in the Hawaiian language. These cabins were used by hunters and explorers.
In 1964, a rough road was built up the mountain. A small telescope was then used to check the sky from Mauna Kea. Scientists quickly realized it was a perfect spot for an astronomical observatory.
The Hale Pōhaku area became a camp for building the observatories. This happened through the 1970s. In 1983, a group of permanent buildings was finished. This new complex was called the Mid-Level Facility.
Honoring a Hero: Ellison Onizuka
The Mid-Level Facility was later renamed to honor Ellison Onizuka. He was an astronaut born in Hawaiʻi. Sadly, he passed away in the Space Shuttle Challenger disaster in 1986.
The center is located about 9,300 feet (2,835 meters) up the mountain. It's found on the Mauna Kea Access Road.
Life at the Center
The Onizuka Center has dormitories where up to 72 people can sleep. There is also a main building with a cafeteria, laundry, and a common room.
Astronomers and technicians often stay at Hale Pōhaku for about 24 hours. This helps their bodies get used to the high altitude. After this, they can go up to the summit, which is almost 14,000 feet (4,267 meters) high. The public cannot visit these support buildings. The University of Hawaii runs the center.
The observatories need constant care because of the harsh conditions. Technicians and construction workers often live at the center.
Observing from Afar
In the past, astronomers had to stay at the center to use the telescopes. Now, most observations can be done using the Internet. This means scientists can work from far away.
First-time users are still encouraged to visit the summit. This helps them learn about the instruments. Often, teams work together. Some are at the summit, while others connect by teleconference. They might be at Hale Pōhaku, the University of Hawaii at Hilo, or their own offices.
By 2002, the W. M. Keck Observatory reported that 90% of its observations were done remotely. Some were even controlled from California.
Visiting Mauna Kea
Just below the main support complex is the Visitor Information Station (VIS). It has its own parking lot for visitors.
What to Do at the VIS
The VIS has displays that share information. You can watch videos about the observatories' history and work. You can also learn about Mauna Kea's geology, nature, and cultural importance.
A staff member or volunteer often gives a tour of the stars and constellations. They use a small laser to point out things in the sky. Many Amateur astronomers also come here. They set up their own telescopes because the high altitude offers much clearer views.
Tips for Summit Visitors
The Onizuka Center is where the paved road ends. Most regular cars should not go past this point. If you want to continue to the summit, you need a four wheel drive vehicle. Its brakes should be in good condition. The road to the summit is steep and gravel. Conditions can change quickly, so always get updated information before going past the VIS.
It is very important to spend time at the mid-level before going to the summit. Stay at least 30 minutes, or even three to four hours. This helps your body get used to the higher elevation. It also lowers your risk of getting altitude sickness, which can be dangerous.
A separate camp for construction workers is located below the VIS. The three facilities (scientists, visitors, construction) are kept separate. Scientists work at night and need to sleep during the day. Construction and tours happen during daylight hours.
Other Places to Explore
There are other interesting places to visit near Mauna Kea.
Observatory Tours
The Keck Observatory on the summit has a visitor gallery. It is usually open on weekdays. You can also reserve free tours of the Subaru Telescope online. Otherwise, only observatory staff and scientists are allowed inside the observatory buildings. Some private tours go from the center to the summit daily. They usually go from before sunrise until after sunset.
Nature and Culture
Other fun things to do on Mauna Kea include visiting the Mauna Kea State Recreation Area. You can also hike the Mauna Kea Trail. This trail starts at the VIS and goes through the Mauna Kea Ice Age Reserve to the summit.
For a deeper dive into astronomy, visit the ʻImiloa Astronomy Center in Hilo. It's on the University of Hawaii at Hilo campus. It has a larger museum and a planetarium that is easy for visitors to access.
