Archaeological reconnaissance of two proposed antenna sites for the National Radio Astronomy Observatory, Mauna Kea, Hawaii.

Author:

Hammatt, Hallett H, Borthwick, Douglas

Title:

Archaeological reconnaissance of two proposed antenna sites for the National Radio Astronomy Observatory, Mauna Kea, Hawaii.

Periodical:

VLBA

Year:

1988

Subject:

Archaeological surveying Hawaii Island Archaeological surveying Mauna Kea National Radio Astronomy Observatory (NRAO) Very Long Base Array (VLBA)

Summary:

This Archaeological reconnaissance covered two alternative locations for a National Radio Astronomy Observatory Antenna site on the south eastern slope of the summit region of Mauna Kea. The first location between 11,560 and 11,840 feet (3523.49 and 3608.83 m) is a 15-acre (6.07 hectares) level area on the west side of the present summit road. No archaeological sites were observed in this area. The second and preferred location is an approximately 100-acre (40.47 hectares) area on the west side of the summit road in a saddle between 2 cinder cones at 12,100 - 12,225 feed (3688.08 - 3726.18 m) elevation. Four archaeological sites were observed in this project area - 3 probable shrines and a small rock shelter. All four of these sites are removed from the proposed access road and antenna site can easily be preserved in place without modifying construction plans. Preservation in place is recommended with plotting of site locations on construction maps and reflagging of sites before construction.

Collection:

EIS