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The U.S. Air Force is advancing plans to build up to seven new telescopes on Haleakalā, despite not completing cleanup of a 2023 fuel spill that leaked 700 gallons of fuel. Community opposition is notable, including pushback from Maui County officials.

The proposed telescopes aim to improve satellite tracking capabilities, with construction anticipated to start around 2026 and estimated costs of $5.9 million. The Air Force has been involved in the area since the 1950s, housing various defense and research facilities.

Cleanup efforts for the previous spill have been ongoing, with full remediation expected to take until 2032. Public hearings are scheduled to discuss the project's environmental impact.