News Release from Thirty Meter Telescope, October 31, 2016

The TMT International Observatory Board of Governors met last week to discuss the progress of TMT in Hawaii and to consider potential alternate sites. To follow is a statement from Henry Yang, Chair of the TMT International Observatory Board:

"The TMT International Observatory (TIO) Board of Governors has explored a number of alternative sites for TMT. Every site we considered would enable TMT’s core science programs.

"After careful deliberation, the Board of Governors has identified Observatorio del Roque de los Muchachos (ORM) on La Palma in the Canary Islands, Spain as the primary alternative to Hawaii.

"Maunakea continues to be the preferred choice for the location of the Thirty Meter Telescope, and the TIO Board will continue intensive efforts to gain approval for TMT in Hawaii. TIO is very grateful to all of our supporters and friends throughout Hawaii, and we deeply appreciate their continued support."

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COVERAGE:

BACKGROUND:

• Telescope: For OHA, it’s all About the Rent Money
• OHA is State’s 170th-Largest ‘Business’
• Doomed: TMT hearing may last months with 85 witnesses
• Leaving Hawaii: Decision on New Site for Thirty Meter Telescope set for ‘Early 2017’