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Onizuka Center for International Astronomy Visitor Information Station Review

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Onizuka Center for International Astronomy Visitor Information Station

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Phone: 808/961-2180; 808/961-2180
www.ifa.hawaii.edu/info/vis

Category: Information Centers
Location: Mauna Kea

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Fodor's Review:

At a 9,300-foot elevation, this is the best amateur observation site on the planet, with a handful of telescopes and a knowledgeable staff. It hosts nightly stargazing sessions from 6 to 10. This is also where you should stop to acclimate to the altitude if you're heading for the summit. On weekends the Onizuka Center offers escorted summit tours, heading up the mountain in a caravan. Reservations are not required for the free tours, which depart at 1 PM. To get here from Hilo, which is about 34 mi away, take Highway 200 (Saddle Rd.), and turn right at mile marker 28 onto the John A. Burns Way, which is the access road to the summit.