Where will the observatory be located?
The 2000 Mauna Kea Science Reserve Master Plan identified the preferred location for the next generation optical/infrared telescope as the 36-acre area identified as “Area E” on the northern plateau. The northern plateau is a relatively flat lava flow plateau below the summit ridge cinder cones. Area E is a portion of the northern plateau that is within the Astronomy Precinct and is situated approximately one-half mile northwest and roughly 500 feet below the existing optical/infrared observatories on the summit ridge. The TMT fits the description of next generation optical/infrared telescope envisioned when the 2000 Master Plan was prepared. If located on Maunakea, the TMT would be located within Area E, at either the site referred to as 13N or E2, described above. The TMT Observatory would occupy an area of approximately 5 acres. View an illustration of location site.
