The Visitor Information Station (VIS) has a stargazing program that is held every night from 6:00 pm to 10:00 pm. The program begins promptly at 6:00 pm with First Light, a video about Mauna Kea that was produced by PBS Hawaii in 2004. On the first and third Saturdays of the month, the Visitor Station hosts different special programs starting at 6 pm. For more information on the special programs, visit the special events section.
After the video, the stargazing program moves outside to the lanai, where telescopes are set up for viewing. The telescopes are run by our knowledgeable staff and volunteers. Throughout the night, the telescopes will be pointed at various objects in the night sky, including star clusters, double stars, nebulae, planets, galaxies, supernova remnants, supernovas and various other objects. Requests are always welcomed providing we're in the right season. During the program, a staff member or volunteer will give a star tour, pointing out bright objects and constellations in the sky. Since all of the telescopes at the VIS were bought by donations from the public, the staff and volunteers will be more than happy to show anyone how to run any of our telescopes.
At 9,300 feet (2,800 meters), the Visitor Station is often above the clouds, giving our program a crisp and bright night sky. Temperature at the VIS can range from 40 to 55 degrees Fahrenheit (4.4 to 12.8 degrees Celsius) during the summer season and 26 to 50 degrees Fahrenheit (-3.3 to 10 degrees Celsius) during the winter. Please dress warmly for evening activities at the VIS, as there are no clothes available to rent at the VIS.
Important note: Make sure that there is a full tank of gas in the vehicle before making the trip up to the Visitor Station. Due to the steep grade and low oxygen level, the internal combustion engine runs inefficiently. Fuel is NOT available for purchase on Mauna Kea. The nearest gas station is about thirty miles either way from the bottom of Saddle Road (Hwy 200) to either Hilo or Waimea.