3.67 m Advanced Electro Optical System Telescope

The 3.67-meter telescope at Haleakalā Observatory is a space surveillance instrument at the Maui Space Surveillance Complex. Light collected by large mirrors passes through the structure and is directed to seven separate research rooms below.

The Department of Defense initiated this project during the 1980s to develop better ways to monitor satellites and other objects orbiting Earth. The technology was refined over time to improve how well it could track space objects.

This telescope connects military space monitoring with scientific research, serving both defense work and astronomical observation. Visitors can see how advanced technology fulfills both practical security needs and broader research goals.

The instrument can track objects at 17 degrees per minute, making it effective for following moving targets quickly. Access may be limited and advance arrangements are often necessary for visits.

The device uses an advanced system with 941 actuators in its deformable mirror to correct atmospheric distortion in real time. This adaptive mirror continuously adjusts its shape to respond to changing air conditions and produce clearer images of space objects.

Location: Maui County

Diameter: 3.67 m

Part of: Air Force Maui Optical and Supercomputing observatory

GPS coordinates: 20.70820,-156.25700

Latest update: December 12, 2025 14:24