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Hyatt has new telescope for Astronomy Program

By Staff | Aug 5, 2010

Through “Tour of the Stars,” stargazers will have the chance to view little-seen constellations, take close-up photos of the moon’s surface and learn about Polynesian way-finding and constellation myths.

KAANAPALI — The Hyatt Regency Maui Resort & Spa recently unveiled a brand new high-tech telescope for its “Tour of the Stars” experience.

Resort guests will be able to view Hawaii’s celestial skies with the new Celestron high-definition 14-inch aplanic telescope, Hawaii’s only recreational HD telescope.

Guests will enjoy better views, greater clarity and more photography opportunities with the new state-of-the-art equipment, the resort reported.

Hyatt Regency Maui donated its former telescope, a Meade 16-inch reflector called “Great White,” to Sacred Hearts School in Lahaina in late June.

The largest in its class, Hyatt’s new Celestron CGE PRO 1400 HD computerized telescope provides a superior, flat, clear image.

“It’s very rare for people to have access to this kind of cutting-edge telescope,” said Edward J. Mahoney, the resort’s director of astronomy and NASA solar system ambassador.

“This new telescope will enhance the overall experience of the resort’s ‘Tour of the Stars’ by giving guests access to unique, crystal clear celestial observations.”

With the new telescope, Mahoney will lead more astronomy tours and offer special star parties in conjunction with notable celestial activities.

The hour-long “Tour of the Stars” program is offered nightly at 8, 9 and 10 p.m. Price is $25 per person for adults and $15 per person for children.

A special, couples only “Romance Tour of the Stars” at 11 p.m. on Friday and Saturday includes champagne and chocolate-dipped strawberries.

Concluding five years of dedicated use, Hyatt Regency Maui presented the “Great White” to Sacred Hearts School, where Mahoney teaches science enrichment classes.

Mahoney plans to form an Astronomy Club and host stargazing parties among the students once or twice a month with the “Great White.”

“We’re grateful to Hyatt Regency Maui for their incredible generosity,” said Susan Hendricks, principal of Sacred Hearts School.

“Thanks to the Hyatt Regency Maui’s donation, teachers and students will be able to conduct astronomical studies that previously had not been possible.”

For more information on “Tour of Stars,” call 661-1234 or visit www.maui.hyatt.com.