#decommissioning of telescopes

Decommissioning of Caltech Submillimeter Observatory on Mauna Kea complete

Last fall, the telescope was removed and this spring and summer all buildings on the site were removed, the foundation demolished, and active restoration of the site was undertaken in accordance with approved plans and permits.

Caltech Submillimeter Observatory buildings, telescope dome removed from Mauna Kea

The decommissioning of the observatory started in September 2023 when the telescope was removed and shipped to Chile where it was anticipated it would continue to contribute to the field of astronomy.

Caltech Submillimeter Observatory decommissioning to restart

The next steps in the decommissioning include completing interior deconstruction and removal of the observatory dome.

Removal of second Mauna Kea telescope to begin this month

The decommissioning includes removing the observatory building, generator building and telecommunications and electrical infrastructure.