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KECK OBSERVATORY
MAUNA KEA SUMMIT
ISLAND OF HAWAI‘I

2007 January 22

OBSERVING PROGRAM:

Astronomers Paul Butler (left) and Steven Vogt (right) search for evidence of extrasolar planets on an array of monitors in the Keck I Control Room in Kamuela.

Steve in K I Control Room

Paul in K I Control Room

A VIEW FROM MAUNA KEA ~ SACRED MOUNTAIN OF HAWAI‘I

Mauna Kea holds profound religious and cultural significance for Native Hawaiians. It embodies their divine ancestral origins and connection to Creation. At 13,796 feet / 4,205 meters in elevation on the Island of Hawai‘i, it last erupted about 4400 years ago. The now-dormant volcano is only 120 feet higher than its active neighbor Mauna Loa 27 miles to the south. Seen from below and framed by palm trees and azure waters, the snow-cloaked summit of Mauna Kea inspires awe and veneration—its Hawaiian name means “White Mountain”. The star-filled sky above offers unsurpassed clarity for some of the world’s most advanced telescopes as they unravel mysteries of the universe. Upon its flanks are hallowed Hawaiian sites, ancient paths, rare plants and animals, and a unique and fragile ecosystem. Please walk gently and respectfully on Mauna O Wākea, the Sacred Mountain of Hawai‘i.

EXPOSURE DATA

Nikon D2x
Nikkor 10.5mm  DX f/2.8 fisheye
ISO digital: 125  /  f/6.3
Exposure:  1/30 second

COPYRIGHT

All images and text are property of Laurie Hatch Photography; unauthorized use is a violation of copyright law. You are welcome to email me with your useage requests.

FOR MORE INFORMATION

W. M. Keck Observatory

‘Imiloa: Astronomy Center of Hawai‘i

Mauna Kea Visitor Information Station

The photographer thanks the astronomers and Keck staff for their invaluable assistance in producing this photograph. 

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