The Unique Big Island: A Training Ground for Astronauts
The Big Island of Hawaii is unique, featuring diverse climates that make it an ideal training ground for astronauts preparing for moon landings. This island boasts two colossal volcanoes, Mauna Kea and Mauna Loa, which bisect it. Remarkably, the western and eastern sides of the island experience contrasting and varying climates.
The massive mountains shield the western side, anchored by the city of Kona, creating a hot and arid desert-like environment. Meanwhile, the eastern side, where Hilo is located, is a lush rainforest with rivers and waterfalls.