Haleakalā telescope project draws unanimous Maui County opposition

The Maui County Council unanimously passed a resolution urging the U.S. Air Force to reject a draft environmental impact statement for a proposed plan to build up to seven telescopes on Haleakalā; the Air Force has extended the public comment period to April 15.

Maui County leaders have formally expressed opposition to a proposed military plan to place up to seven telescopes in a state conservation district near the summit of Haleakalā. The council voted unanimously to urge the U.S. Air Force to reject the draft environmental impact statement and asked federal and state agencies not to approve permits. Community members have raised cultural and environmental concerns during public hearings since the draft EIS was released. The Air Force says the telescopes would be part of a space surveillance facility and has held public meetings and a comment process. Key facts: - The Maui County Council passed a resolution urging the U.S. Air Force to reject the draft EIS and asking agencies not to grant permits. - The proposal would add up to seven telescopes near the summit as part of the AMOS STAR space surveillance project, according to federal officials. - The Air Force extended the public comment period to April 15, and officials say feedback will be incorporated into a final EIS planned for publication in the fall. - The council’s resolution is expected to be sent to the consultant preparing the draft EIS and to federal and state officials. Summary: Local elected officials and many residents oppose the proposed telescope development, citing potential effects on cultural sites and the mountain environment. The Air Force has extended the public comment period to April 15; those comments will be considered in a final environmental impact statement scheduled for the fall. Undetermined at this time.