"UNIVERSITY of HAWAI'I - 2.2-Meter Telescope"
Posted by: Groundspeak Premium Member Jake39
N 19° 49.381 W 155° 29.158
5Q E 239602 N 2193813
The "University of Hawai`i Telescope is located near the summit of 'Mauna Kea' on the 'Big Island of Hawai`i' and was the first to be constructed at this location.
Waymark Code: WM7W0
Location: Hawaii, United States
Date Posted: 02/20/2006
Published By:Groundspeak Premium Member Jake39
Views: 26
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In 1964, an extensive program was undertaken to evaluate Mauna Kea as a site for astronomy. The results suggested that the air was exceptionally stable, and that Mauna Kea was among the best sites in the world for astronomy.
The University of Hawaii 2.2-meter (88-inch) telescope was the first large telescope constructed on Mauna Kea. It commenced operation in 1970.
The early results from the UH 2.2-meter telescope demonstrated to the world how good Mauna Kea is for astronomy. The smooth shape of the mountain, and isolated location of Hawaii, means that the air flows very smoothly over the mountain. Degradation of images from atmospheric tubulence is low. The high altitude places the summit above much of the Earth's water vapor.
The excellent conditions atop Mauna Kea have enabled the University of Hawaii 2.2-meter telescope to become one of the most productive telescopes of its size in the world.
  • The first efficient 256x256 infrared array camera in the world
  • The first efficient 1024x1024 infrared array camera in the world
  • The first 4096x4096 infrared array camera in the world
  • The first 8192x8192 CCD camera in the world



    • Observatory Purpose: Research

    Optical / Infrared Telescopes?: Yes

    Radio Telescopes?: No

    Is this a Club Observatory?: No

    Active Observatory?: Active

    Number of Telescopes or Antennas: 1

    Site URL: [Web Link]

    Year Dedicated or Opened: 1970

    Altitude (meters): 4005

    Solar Telescopes?: Not listed

    Open to the Public?: Not listed

    Public Viewing Allowed?: Not listed
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