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Mokupapapa
Discovery Center For Hawaii's Remote Coral Reefs
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PHOTOS |
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Click on a thumbnail to
see a larger version of the photo |
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OVERVIEW |
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This 4,000-square-foot
center is perfect for children, who can
explore the Northwest Hawaiian Islands coral
reef ecosystem.
The center was constructed to
interpret the natural science, culture, and
history of the Northwestern Hawaiian Islands
and surrounding marine environment.
Interactive displays, engaging
three-dimensional models, and immersive
theater allow the visitor to experience the
wonder and majesty of this special ocean
region. A 2,500-gallon salt-water aquarium
provides a habitat for some of the fishes
from the NWHI reefs. Next to the aquarium,
in a small alcove is a mock-up of Hawai`i
Undersea Research Laboratory's Pisces V
submersible. Using working robot arms
visitors can experience what it might be
like as a researcher descending into the
dark depths of the ocean. This exhibit is a
major hit with the kids, as well as adults.
Large and colorful graphic panels with
interpretive text in both Hawaiian and
English introduce the visitor to the NWHI,
its geography, cultural history, and
ecology. Beautiful photographs from the NWHI
are spread throughout the Center and a giant
coral reef mural (large image, 536KB)
created by Hilo artist Layne Luna covers an
entire wall in the main exhibit hall. Layne
also created several life-size models of
NWHI inhabitants that hang from the ceiling
and hide in corners. A giant manta ray
swoops down over the entry door as tiger and
Galapagos sharks prowl overhead. A large
Ulua, or giant trevally swims out of the
coral reef mural to feed on Akule or
big-eyed scad and in the program room two
large Ahi, or yellowfin tuna, explode out of
a wall to bite traditional Hawaiian lures
being towed behind the double-hulled canoe.
The abundant natural life of the NWHI comes
alive within the center and the visitor is
transported into this remote ocean
wilderness where predators still rule the
reefs and the skies teem with seabirds.
Throughout the center multimedia exhibits in
video kiosks and on plasma screens invite
the visitor to explore the NWHI at their own
pace and in their own way. Videos kiosks
present the world of the coral reef
researcher as well as the conservationist,
and a virtual field guide entices visitors
to identify the many different plants and
animals that inhabit the NWHI. |
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DIRECTIONS |
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308
Kamehameha Avenue, 109 # Hilo, HI 96720 |
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WEBSITE |
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http://www.hawaiireef.noaa.gov |
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