Hale Pōhaku
The Onizuka Center for International Astronomy
19°45’33″N Latitude and 155°27′22″W Longitude
Open 7 days a week from 9am until 9pm at the 9,200 foot (2,800 meter) level
We provide health and safety information and education about Maunakea.
Hale Pōhaku
Because of the extreme altitude of Mauna Kea, astronomers and technicians must acclimatize and live at an intermediate altitude. The Onizuka Center for International Astronomy (also known as Hale Pohaku – Hawaiian for “Stone House”) has living facilities for up to 72 people working at the summit, as well as a visitor center and other support buildings. This photograph is partially obscured by drifting smoke from a distant fire – the 1998 winter was very dry, with drought conditions and extreme fire danger on the Island of Hawaii.
Hale Pōhaku Map
Maunakea Observatories Support Services
Maunakea Observatories Support Services (MKSS) is a service organization that operates under the direction of the Maunakea Observatories Oversight Committee and provides logistical support services to all Mauna Kea observatories, and operates and maintains the mid-level facilities at Hale Pohaku.