The removal of the Caltech Submillimeter Observatory (CSO) will resume in mid-April after work paused for winter weather on Maunakea. The entire decommissioning process is expected to be completed by 2024 and will cost CSO more than $4 million.
Final decommissioning phase
- Complete interior deconstruction and removal of the observatory dome
- Remove foundation and the cesspool, its remaining solid contents, and all underground utilities
- Sample ground underneath the foundation and cesspool for chemicals of potential concern
- Monitor site for the appearance of invasive species
- Restore land to the fullest extent consistent with the permits guiding the decommissioning
CSO said that there are monitors for all phases of the project, including decommissioning, cultural, construction and archeological monitors, in accordance with the permits guiding the telescope’s removal.
“Once the decommissioning is complete, the site will be monitored for three years, primarily to document repopulation by flora and fauna,” said Caltech physics professor and CSO Director Sunil Golwala.
The decommissioning is expected to be completed this year. Deconstruction and site restoration costs are being funded primarily by the Gordon and Betty Moore Foundation. The CSO telescope removal is made possible by the Heising-Simons Foundation.
Regular updates will be provided by CSO.
Hōkū Keʻa
The removal of the Hōkū Keʻa Observatory on the summit of Maunakea will begin the week of April 15. The decommissioning process that includes the restoration of the site is expected to be completed by August.
This is the second telescope on Maunakea that is in the final phase of decommissioning.
