HEAD 20 Meeting

Plan Your Trip

HEAD 20
20th Divisional Meeting of the High Energy Astrophysics Division
Hilton Waikōloa Village, Waikōloa, Hawai‘i
26 – 30 March 2023

NEW: HEAD 20 Summit and Observatory Tours (SOLD OUT)
Tuesday, 28 March
$300 per person 
Maximum capacity: 24 people


Description
From sea level to the high alpine witness the dramatic diversity of our island's landscape. Embark on a remarkable road trip to the heavenly realm of Maunakea--the world’s tallest mountain. Traditionally the sacred home of Hawaiian deities, today Maunakea also hosts the greatest astronomical complex on earth. Our journey from sea level to the summit uncovers the connections of Hawaii’s ancient practice of navigation and the modern technological pursuit of understanding our universe. As you return from the highest point in the Pacific, you'll have an opportunity to reflect on how ancient practices inform modern science to mold our understanding of the universe today. 


Itinerary

  • 8:00 AM - Depart Hilton Waikoloa Beach for Maunakea Visitors Information Station 9:00 AM - Arrive at Visitors Information Station for acclimation & light snack 
  • 9:45 AM - Depart for Summit of Maunakea 
  • 10:30 AM - Arrive at Summit for driving and observatory tours to Submillimeter Array & CFHT (Canada-France-Hawaii Telescope)  
  • 12:00 PM - Depart Summit 
  • 12:45 PM - Arrive Maunakea Visitors Center for a restroom break and picnic lunch
  • 2:00 PM - Depart for Waikoloa Beach Marriott 
  • 3:00 PM - Arrive resort for drop off 

Activity

  • Off road drive to summit. 
  • This tour involves less than 1,000ft of walking at an extreme elevation 

Be Advised

  • Wear long pants, covered walking shoes, and bring a sweater or jacket. 
  • This tour involves travel from sea level to an extreme elevation near 14,000 feet (4000 meters) 
  • Scuba divers please note the summit altitude & consult with a dive master 
  • Not recommended for persons with respiratory or heart conditions, or those in poor health. 
  • Children under 13 yrs and pregnant women not allowed on the summit of Maunakea.

Dress Code

  • REQUIRED: Closed-toe walking shoes (i.e. sneakers, hiking boots), long pants and warm layers. 
  • RECOMMENDED: Dress for cold weather 

Includes

  • Assorted pre-packaged snacks
  • Your choice of Turkey, Pastrami or Veggie deli-style sandwich, served with chips, cookies and assorted refreshments. Please indicate your choice of sandwich and if you have any dietary restrictions.