Hale Pohaku - Onizuka Center for International Astronomy

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.