The Visitor Information Station (VIS), at the 9,300 foot (2,900 m) level of Mauna Kea, has a nightly stargazing program held every night of the year from 6:00 pm until 10:00 pm. Sponsored entirely by public donations, this program is conducted free of charge and is open to everybody! Often above the clouds, the night skies at the VIS are often clear and bright, rivaling any other stargazing location in the world!
The program begins at 6:00 pm with the showing of First Light,
a documentary about Mauna Kea made by PBS Hawaii that goes
into the history of the mountain from both astronomical and cultural
perspectives. On the first and third Saturdays of the month, this
video will be shown after the special
programs also hosted by the VIS. For more information on these programs, visit the Saturday
Night Events section of this website.
After the video, the stargazing program moves outside to the lanai, where
several telescopes are set up for viewing. The telescopes are
operated by
our knowledgeable staff and volunteers. Throughout the night, telescopes will be
pointed at various objects in the night sky, including open clusters,
globular clusters, double stars,
nebulae, planets, galaxies and supernova remnants. Purchased with
public donations, these are your telescopes, so requests are always welcomed.
Let's see what we can see!
As soon as its dark enough, a star tour will be given. Using a laser pointer, we will point out all the bright constellations and bright objects visible that night.
Please note that we often experience near-freezing night time
temperatures at the VIS. Please, dress warmly! No warm
clothing is available for rent at the VIS.
Also, please make sure there is a full tank of gas in your vehicle before making the trip up to the
Visitor Station. Fuel is NOT available for purchase on Mauna Kea, and
the nearest gas stations are about thirty miles away in either Hilo or Waimea.
We look forward to seeing you! May your skies always be clear!
Aloha!