International Lunar Observatory Association News
Volume 1, Issue 1 – November 2006 – Hawai‘i Island

International Lunar Observatory Association Takes First Steps in Hawaii

One of Hawaii’s most precious resources – astronomy – is poised to receive a substantial boost through the pioneering and innovative International Lunar Observatory (ILO) mission. With the potential to advance Hawaii’s world astronomy leadership and access to space for the 21st century, the ILO will serve as a viable alternative to further Mauna Kea development as well as a toehold for human progress. And now, with the significant support of Native Hawaiian cultural practitioner and Mauna Kea Support Services ranger Kimo Pihana, the ILO hopes to secure additional institutional, commercial and individual support both within Hawaii and internationally.

The ILO is to be a multi-national, multi-wavelength astrophysical observatory, power station and communications center operational near the South Pole of the Lunar Surface as early as 2009. It will utilize – among others – submillimeter, millimeter, optical and VLF wavelengths. Scientific objectives range from galactic center imaging to planetary and solar observations to the search for extra-terrestrial intelligence. Complementing the science of the ILO are commercial applications that include leading-edge Moon-to-Earth communications and broadcasting.

“The ILO is going to be good for us,” says Pihana in a recent interview from the Mauna Kea Onizuka Visitors Center. “You have to make an attempt so you can study what is beyond our limits. The Moon looks like one of the best areas to do that.”

Pihana, highly respected in both the Native Hawaiian and astronomical community, believes that Hawaii is unique in the world for its deep connection with the stars.

“Star gazing, learning the heavens – it’s an old culture. But now we need bigger mirrors, bigger facilities,” he says.

Pihana says he is supportive of modern astronomy in Hawaii – but not necessarily continued development of its limited land resources.

“If this project can help eliminate any further development on this mountain, then go for the Moon!” says Pihana. “We have people who already know how to get the ILO off the ground…and I’m glad Hawaii is at the foundation. It puts Hawaii ahead of Chile.”

The ILO now has an Advisory Committee of about 50 prominent international astronomers, astrophysicists, entrepreneurs, policy makers and others.

The ILOA requests and invites your feedback, comments and inquires of interest. Please contact the ILOA at, temporarily, news@spaceagepub.com, or call 808-885-8687.

Learn more about the ILO and ILOA at http://www.iloa.org.