Native Hawaiians Push Back Against Space Force's Telescope Project on Haleakalā
The U.S. Space Force’s recent proposal to construct up to seven new telescopes on the summit of Haleakalā, a revered volcanic mountain on the Hawaiian island of Maui, has sparked significant opposition from the local community. This initiative, part of the Air Force Maui Optical and Supercomputing Site Small Telescope Advanced Research (AMOS STAR) facility, aims to enhance satellite tracking and prevent orbital collisions. However, many native Hawaiians argue that the project disrespects sacred land and perpetuates historical injustices.
The proposed AMOS STAR facility would encompass an optics lab and several telescope domes on an acre of land near the existing Haleakalā Observatory. Public scoping meetings held between May 13 and 15 allowed residents to voice their concerns as the Environmental Impact Statement (EIS) is drafted. These meetings highlighted the deep cultural and spiritual significance of Haleakalā to the native Hawaiian community and the potential environmental impacts of the project.
During one of these meetings, a resident emphasized, "This project is not merely about stars and satellites; it is a continuation of settled colonial projects." Such sentiments resonate deeply within the community, where the construction of new telescopes is viewed as another instance of disregard for indigenous rights and traditions.
Despite these objections, U.S. military officials argue the necessity of the telescopes for national security and space domain awareness. With the increasing number of satellites in orbit, the risk of collisions grows, necessitating improved tracking capabilities. "With more objects in space, we need more telescopes to more frequently track the objects in space," a military official stated during a public meeting on May 14 at the Mayor H. Tavares Community Center in Pukalani.
This controversy is not new to Hawaii. Similar resistance has been seen in past telescope projects on other islands, including the contentious construction atop Mauna Kea, which has faced protests and legal battles for years. The AMOS STAR facility has also been under scrutiny since a diesel fuel leak from a malfunctioning generator last year, which caused significant environmental concerns.
Native Hawaiians claim that the ongoing development projects on sacred lands negatively affect their mental, emotional, and spiritual well-being. They argue that these projects contribute to the erosion of their cultural heritage and connection to the land. The opposition has been vocal and persistent, with residents expressing a near-unanimous "no" during public forums.
Despite the strong community resistance, the Space Force continues to push for the project, citing its critical role in monitoring the increasing satellite traffic in space. The plans for the AMOS STAR facility include constructing telescopes enclosed in domes, fiber optic links from the Maui Space Surveillance Complex (MSSC), a paved access drive, parking facilities, surface water runoff management measures, and other site improvements.
The tension between advancing scientific capabilities and respecting indigenous cultures remains a delicate balance. While the Space Force stresses the importance of the new telescopes for national security, the voices of the native Hawaiian community highlight the ongoing struggle for cultural preservation and respect for sacred lands.
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Vertical Bar Media
At Vertical Bar Media, we understand the importance of balancing technological advancements with cultural and environmental stewardship. If your organization is navigating similar challenges or requires support in digital marketing, web and app development, or technical training, we are here to help. Explore our services and learn how we can assist you in achieving your goals while respecting community values.
Source: Space
At Vertical Bar Media, we understand the importance of balancing technological advancements with cultural and environmental stewardship. If your organization is navigating similar challenges or requires support in digital marketing, web and app development, or technical training, we are here to help. Explore our services and learn how we can assist you in achieving your goals while respecting community values.
Source: Space
Photo Credit: Reinhard Dirscherl/ullstein bild via Getty Image
Social Media Hashtags: #Hawaii #IndigenousRights #SpaceForce #EnvironmentalImpact
Social Media Hashtags: #Hawaii #IndigenousRights #SpaceForce #EnvironmentalImpact
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