Haleakalā, Shield volcano in Maui, United States.
Haleakalā is a shield volcano in Maui County, United States, that reaches approximately 3,055 meters (10,023 feet) above sea level. Its summit depression stretches about 18 kilometers (11 miles) across and shapes the eastern portion of the island with expansive lava fields and cinder slopes that extend to the coast.
The last eruptions took place roughly between 1480 and 1600, leaving lava flows along the eastern slopes. After native Hawaiians inhabited the region for centuries, the area was placed under protection in the late 20th century.
The summit observatory is part of a research facility that has been studying the sun and night sky for decades. Stargazing here is considered exceptionally clear because the mountain rises far above most clouds and coastal city lights.
The climb to the summit passes through several climate zones, so warm clothing and sun protection are both necessary. Visibility is best in the early morning, but clouds may wrap around the mountain by midday and reduce distant views.
The silversword plant grows exclusively on the upper slopes of this mountain and survives between roughly 2,100 and 3,000 meters (6,900 and 9,800 feet) elevation under harsh conditions. Some specimens take over 30 years to bloom once, then die after flowering.
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