Mauna Kea: A Stargazing Experience + Photos in waimea, HI

Journey to a remote stargazing location, far away from the touristy spots to truly enjoy the dark skies of Hawaii. All of Mauna Kea stargazing tours are led by James, an Analog-Astronaut and Pro Astro-Photographer.

Celestial objects and constellations will be pointed out with a powerful green laser pointer. Hear about James’ time spent as an Analog-Astronaut, ancient Polynesian navigation and more. View live details of deep space using the most sophisticated, light-sensitive camera/scope out of any company in Hawai’i. Take in awe-inspiring views of deep space objects like Galaxies and Nebulas that you didn’t know were possible!

Being a Pro Astro-Photographer on the Big Island and spending eight years as a guide, James knows the best spots and angles to take a few stellar photos of you with the Milky Way.

All medium resolution photos taken throughout the trip of deep space objects and of your group are included in the price.

Epic Tours is the only stargazing adventure in Hawai’i that doesn’t do stargazing tours when the moon is brighter than 20-30% and they also don’t go to touristy or culturally sensitive locations, which gives you the best stargazing experience possible.

Tour Highlights:

• Led by an Analog Astronaut/Astro-Photographer.


• Your photo-guides will take epic photos of you.


• Look at galaxies, nebulas and star clusters through an Astro-cam.


• Photos from your trip are given complimentary (upgrades are available).


• Only Mauna Kea stargazing tour company that avoids the bright moon.

Meeting Location:

• Mauna Kea State Recreation Area.


• We will stargaze from altitudes below 9k feet on Mauna Kea or Mauna Loa.


• Tour companies and private individuals are not permitted to stargaze at the summit. We have our own unique locations that we go to for epic stargazing. The summit is closed 45 minutes after sunset and solely for research and cultural practices.

About Your Guide:

• James Ward is the owner/guide and Astro photographer for Epic Tours.


• A company he started in 2013 on the Big Island of Hawaii.


• Astronomy Major at the University of Hawaii.


• Currently assisting as Mission Support for simulated moon and Mars missions at the HI-SEAS Habitat.


• Formerly an Analog Astronaut and Vice Commander for the Sensoria M3 Moon Mission directed by the International MoonBase Alliance in collaboration with NASA.