James Clerk Maxwell Telescope

The James Clerk Maxwell Telescope is a radio observatory on Mauna Kea with a 15-meter primary mirror designed to observe submillimeter wavelengths from an elevation of about 4,000 meters (13,000 feet). The instrument allows astronomers to study stars, galaxies, and cosmic dust across vast distances.

Operations began in 1987 through a partnership between the United Kingdom, Canada, and the Netherlands. This international effort marked a turning point in how astronomers could observe the submillimeter universe.

Researchers from around the world work together at this facility, sharing observations and discoveries across borders. The international cooperation shapes how science happens here on a daily basis.

The location sits at high elevation, so visitors need time to adjust to the thinner air before exploring the site. Astronomers submit research proposals through a specialized system to request observing time for their projects.

This observatory was part of the global Event Horizon Telescope network that captured the first photograph of a black hole. This achievement shows what becomes possible when observatories around the world work together with shared data.

Operator: Joint Astronomy Centre

GPS coordinates: 19.82292,-155.47708

Latest update: December 7, 2025 20:45