UH telescope earns global honor

The University of Hawaii’s 2.2-meter (88 inch) telescope on Maunakea has been recognized by the Institute of Electrical and Electronics Engineers as an IEEE Milestone, a significant honor spotlighting innovations that changed the world, according to a UH press release.

Dedicated in 1970, the telescope, commonly referred to as the UH88, was both the world’s highest and the first computer-controlled telescope at the time. Innovations developed or tested by the UH88 have shaped astronomy worldwide and include breakthrough digital imaging, adaptive optics and the HAWAII near-infrared detectors used on NASA’s James Webb Space Telescope.

“This recognition speaks to the visionary work of UH astronomers and engineers who transformed UH88 into a platform for groundbreaking discovery,” said Mark Chun, director of the telescope. “For more than five decades, their innovations have not only shaped the telescope’s legacy, but also helped push the boundaries of what’s possible in astronomy.”

To commemorate this milestone, a bronze plaque unveiling took place Thursday at the UH88 on the summit of Maunakea, followed by a ceremony at the Institute for Astronomy facility at UH Hilo.

The UH88 is the first IEEE Milestone recognized on Hawaii Island and one of only a few statewide.

Other IEEE milestones in Hawaii include revolutionary wireless communication technology ALOHAnet developed at UH Manoa nearly 50 years ago and the original electric lights at ‘Iolani Palace.