Welcome to MKVIS
Aloha!
The Onizuka Center for International Astronomy Visitor Information Station is located on Maunakea, at 19°45′33″N Latitude and 155°27′22″W Longitude.
Open every day of the year from 9AM until 10PM at the 9,200 foot (2,800 meter) level, we provide health and safety information and education about Maunakea.
Due to the hazards of altitude sickness, pregnant women, persons in poor health, and children under 16 should NOT venture above the Visitor Information Station. Drivers are cautioned to use 4-wheel drive vehicles above the VIS because the road to the summit is unpaved, rough, and quite steep. Those traveling to the summit should always used 4WD Low Range to reduce brake failure and overheating.
Groups of over ten persons require an approved special request.
Crowding during evenings: Please be aware of the possibility of long lines and scarce parking at the Visitor Information Station on any evening until about 1-1/2 hours after sunset (check the bottom of the Maunakea Weather Center page for current sunset times). We are unable to predict volume on any particular day. Mahalo for your patience and understanding.
Summit Access Road conditions: Maunakea weather varies widely and sometimes very quickly.
The latest road and weather information, as well as road closure criteria, are available at the "Current Summit & Road Conditions" section on the right side of this page, or go to the "Road Conditions" section of the Maunakea Weather Center website; http://mkwc.ifa.hawaii.edu/ or call 935-6268 for a recorded phone message (updated as conditions change).
Kama'āina Observatory Experience: The Kama‘āina Observatory Experience is a monthly community event that welcomes Hawai‘i residents to the science reserve atop Maunakea to see world-class telescopes and learn about the cultural and environmental importance of the mountain. For more information about the Kama‘āina Observatory Experience, or to reserve a spot for an upcoming tour, visit www.kamaainaobservatoryexperience.org or call ‘Imiloa Astronomy Center at (808) 969-9703.
