Daniel K. Inouye Solar Telescope, Solar telescope at Haleakalā Observatory, Hawaii, US
The Daniel K. Inouye Solar Telescope is a research facility on Mount Haleakalā on Maui that focuses on observing the sun with advanced optical systems. The primary mirror measures about 4 meters across and works with wavelengths ranging from visible light to near-infrared.
Construction of the facility began in 2013 as a project to study the sun, and it started operating in 2019. It continues a long tradition of solar observation that helps scientists understand our star's behavior more deeply.
The telescope sits on Mount Haleakalā, a place of deep meaning to Hawaiian communities. Site managers hold regular discussions with local groups to honor the sacred relationship people have with this mountain.
The observatory sits at high elevation on the mountain, so weather can change quickly and the air is thinner. Visitors should prepare for changing conditions and allow time to acclimate to the altitude.
The telescope uses an innovative system that improves viewing through Earth's atmosphere, allowing it to capture solar details sharper than ever before. This lets researchers watch the tiniest structures and changes happening on the sun's surface.
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