Sharing Mauna Kea

Author:

Tytell, David

Title:

Sharing Mauna Kea

Periodical:

Sky and Telescope

Year:

2001

Volume:

102

Pages:

40-48

Subject:

Astronomical observatories Mauna Kea controversy

Summary:

This document describes a deep-seated conflict that exists between two groups of people who equally share a love for Mauna Kea -- the people of Hawaii and the astronomers who work atop this sacred mountain. Described is the history of astronomy and the cost of rapid growth as it occurred on the summit as well as the sacredness of Mauna Kea as is felt by the Hawaiian people. This is because the summit isn't only the holiest of places to pray for the Hawaiian people, it was also the holiest of places to be buried -- a final repose that was reserved for the highest chiefs, priests, and other special people. Also described was the endangerment that was caused to the indigenous Wekiu bug that resulted through the construction of the telescopes.

Label:

Mauna Kea - General

Date:

2001

Collection:

Periodicals