UH Hilo Center for Maunakea Stewardship - Research Library

Science, culture clash over sacred mountain

Author:
McFarling, Usha Lee
Title:
Science, culture clash over sacred mountain
Periodical:
Los Angeles Times
Year:
2001
Subject:
Sacred sites Astronomical observatories Mauna Kea controversy Outrigger Telescope Project
Summary:
This document describes the controversy that exists regarding the modern and ancient uses of Mauna Kea that is located on the island of Hawaii. This mountain is not only considered sacred to the Hawaiian as they practice their naturalistic religion on this, the highest temple in the Pacific, it is also considered sacred to astronomers as it is the best place on the planet from which to view the universe due to its clean, clear, and dark skies. As a result, described is the controversy that erupted as the National Aeronautics and Space Administration and the California Institute of Technology petitioned the State of Hawaii in an effort to develop the world's next generation of telescopes via an array of telescopes that would exceed the number of telescopes that were slated for Mauna Kea. Other issues that are described are complaints that were filed regarding the destruction of a sacred puu that was flattened as a result of a telescope construction project, construction trash that was seen blowing around the mountain from the telescopes, the destruction of critical habitats for the Wekiu bug -- a bug that only exists on Mauna Kea, and a state audit that found that the University of Hawaii was negligent in protecting the historical, cultural, and natural resources of the summit of Mauna Kea.
Label:
Mauna Kea - Commentary
URL:
http://articles.latimes.com/2001/mar/18/news/mn-39418
Date:
March 18, 2001
Collection:
Periodicals