The Amos Star project shows the proposed location of seven new telescopes on Haleakala. Courtesy photo

A couple of public hearings scheduled this week are seeking public comments on the U.S. Air Force’s controversial plan to build seven more telescopes on Haleakala.

The first meeting focused on a draft environmental impact statement will be Tuesday, Feb. 17, at the Kihei Community Center at 303 East Lipoa St. A second meeting will be on Wednesday, Feb. 18, at the Mayor Hannibal Taares Community Center at 91 Pukalani St. Both are set to run from 6-9 p.m.

According to the U.S. Air Force, the telescopes are necessary to advance the nation’s capability to maintain space domain awareness, including the tracking of about 48,900 space objects that include active space crafts and pieces of debris.

The project has been opposed by many people including Maui County leaders and the state Office of Hawaiian Affairs.

Residents have expressed cultural and environmental concerns on what they regard as the sacred nature of Haleakala and its sensitive ecosystem.

Written comments may be submitted through March 16 at https://www.amosstareis.com/home.

Comments can also be submitted via email to amosstareis@tetratech.com or mailed to 711 Kapiolani Boulevard, Suite 950, Honolulu, HI 96813-5213, care of “AMOS STAR EIS.”