In a previous blog I shared my opinions regarding the state of Hawaii’s helicopter tour operations. The blog came on the heels of a number of fatal helicopter crashes that took place over the Islands. Recently, the national news picked up another story originating from one of the “Aloha State’s” other star attractions—-Mauna Kea.
Mauna Kea is a massive dormant volcano that towers nearly 14,000 feet above the Big Island of Hawaii. Its height makes it prime real estate for astronomers and scientists. In fact, Mauna Kea’s summit is home to the planet’s largest collection of astronomical observatories. This, of course, makes it a popular destination for many tourists who want to do some stargazing of their own.
Recently, two visitors lost their lives while traveling down the mountain to the city of Hilo, which sits at the base of Mauna Kea. According to news reports, the rental Jeep one of the visitors was driving crashed in a lava field about a half-mile from the Mauna Kea visitor’s center.
Because of the treacherous driving conditions rental car companies in Hawaii do not allow renters to take their vehicles on the road that leads to the top of the mountain (most visitors register for one of the official Mauna Kea tours to reach the summit). However, there are some who break the rules and opt to drive themselves to the top. I was born and raised in Hawaii and frankly, I would advise not taking the risk. If you don’t want to sign up for one of the tours, but still want to experience the astronomical wonders that Mauna Kea has to offer consider a trip to the Imiloa Astronomy Center located on the campus of the University of Hawaii at Hilo.
The $28-million facility is extraordinary… and hard to miss. The center is easily seen from all parts of the campus. Its distinctive architecture is designed around three titanium-covered cones, which represent three of the Big Island’s five volcanoes—Mauna Kea, Mauna Loa and Hualalai, and is composed of 75% recycled material. The center houses a 42,000-square-foot exhibition and planetarium complex that allows you to learn more about the relationship between the stars and the ancient path of Hawaii’s native culture and language. The center’s exhibit hall sits in the middle of a koa forest and features more than 300 displays (many of them interactive) that link the voyaging explorations of the early Hawaiians to the astronomical discoveries of today’s scientists.
The state-of-the-art planetarium theater sits 120 and boasts a full dome digital system (complete with six projectors and surround sound) and reclining seats, which provide a unobstructed view of the show called “The Sky Tonight at Imiloa.”
Prior to the show you can grab a bite to eat at the nearby open-air café that provides sweeping views of Hilo Bay. The center is open to the public every day except Monday—-so plan accordingly.
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