Postcard from the Summit – Page 15

Snow on Mauna Kea

A light dusting of snow on the summit today, currently snowing. The forecast is for clearing into the new year.

Keck Under Ice

One of my favorite photos of the year, taken in the first few days of the year.

Today marks the beginning of winter. While snow and ice can appear on the summit of Mauna Kea any time during the year, the most severe weather usually occurs during winter storms. We all look forward to the beautiful sight of Mauna Kea with her white coat. Of course this comes at a price, days of difficult access to the summit facilities, or no access at all. The loss of observing nights due to ice and clouds is most common from January to March.