The James Clerk Maxwell Telescope (JCMT) is the largest astronomical telescope in the world designed specifically to operate in the submillimetre (think far-infrared/microwaves) wavelength region of the spectrum. The JCMT is used to study our Solar System, interstellar and circumstellar dust and gas, and distant galaxies. It is situated at approximately 19°49’22.2″N 155°28’37.0″W close to the summit of Maunakea, Hawaii, at an altitude of 4092m. The JCMT is run by the non-profit organization the East Asian Observatory.
Due to staffing constraints, we are unable to give summit tours to visitors who request them. For those who are visiting the island and who want to learn more about the telescopes on Maunakea we recommend a visit to the Imiloa Astronomy Center in Hilo or a visit to the Maunakea Visitor Information Station.
“Starlapse: The James Clerk Maxwell Telescope” created by JCMT Telescope System Specialist William Montgomerie. Also available at www.vimeo.com/williammontgomerie/jcmtstarlapse