Mauna Loa Observatory

The Mauna Loa Observatory is located on the Big Island of Hawaii.  Test racks face northeasterly winds and is located at an elevation of approximately 11,140 feet above sea level, which is in an alpine microclimate. This test site is characterized by high solar radiation and low temperatures.

Site Details:

Property:  Earth System Research Laboratory (National Oceanic & Atmospheric Administration)
Number of Racks:  1
Rack Design:  George Hawthorn
Rack Construction:  Stainless steel frame and station mounts with Trex® boards
Weather Station:  None

Weather & Environmental Data:

• Chloride ion deposition rate
• Rainfall
• Time of wetness
• Solar and UV radiation
• Temperature & humidity
• Wind direction & rate

Specimen Inventory:

• Coated specimens
• Corrosion sensors
• Continuous fiber aluminum MMCs
• Ceramic/Al couples
• SAE racks

QuickTime Virtual Reality:

• Panorama near test rack *
• Panorama above observatory *