Poli´ahu, covered in a mantle of snow and ice, is the snow goddess of Mauna Kea. Often she descends the mountain to sit on the rocky cliffs along the Hamakua Coast. It is there that she seduced Aiwohikupua, a young chief from Kauai.
Poli´ahu's rival, Pele, goddess of volcanoes, stays restlessly away on Mauna Loa. The more fiery of the two, Pele often vents her displays bursting from the earths molten core.
Open to everyone! Every night of the year from 6pm - 10pm MKVIS conducts star tours and operates several telescopes for public viewing by our knowledgeable guides.
Learn More about our Stargazing Program »
Every Sat. & Sun. Bring your 4WD vehicle and join our free summit tour caravan. Tours will go into at least one of the observatories.
Details of Escorted Summit Tours »
Learn about astronomy and Mauna Kea as a volunteer. No experience required.
Volunteer Positions at MKVIS »
