Mauna Loa Observatory, Atmospheric research facility on Mauna Loa volcano, Hawaii County, United States.
The observatory operates at 3,397 meters above sea level on the northern slope of Mauna Loa, maintaining instruments that measure atmospheric composition and climate indicators.
Established in 1956 by the US Weather Bureau, the facility began its groundbreaking carbon dioxide measurements in March 1958 under Charles David Keeling's direction.
The observatory data collection methods and research findings influence global climate policies and environmental protection strategies across multiple nations and organizations.
Scientists access specialized equipment to monitor gases including carbon dioxide, methane, carbon monoxide, and nitrous oxide in an environment free from urban pollution.
The facility's measurements created the Keeling Curve, which presents the longest continuous record of atmospheric carbon dioxide concentrations on Earth.
Location: Hawaii County
Elevation above the sea: 3,397 m
GPS coordinates: 19.53610,-155.57600
Latest update: May 27, 2025 11:47
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