Astronomical observatories, Mauna Kea, Hawaii

Mauna Kea (lit. *White Mountain*), considered dormant, is a shield volcano approx 1 million years old and is Hawaii's highest peak at 4250m (13,769ft), but measured from its base on the sea floor its elevation is 10,000m (33,000ft) high, significantly higher than Mt. Everest. The peak is always snow-capped in winter, sometimes to a snow-depth of several meters. In Hawaiian mythology, the peaks of the volcanoes on the island of Hawaii are sacred ground, and Mauna Kea is the most sacred of all. An ancient law allowed only high-ranking tribal chiefs to visit its peak. With its high altitude, dry environment, and stable airflow, Mauna Kea's summit is one of the best sites in the world for astronomical observation. Thirteen telescopes funded by eleven countries have been constructed at the summit, for scientific research, and comprise the largest such facility in the world. Their construction on sacred landscape continues to be a topic of debate. This image, taken in summer from the summit shows several observa...