After years of controversy, heated debates and passionate protests, the drive to built the world's most powerful telescope atop Hawaii's tallest mountain took a critical step forward.

It has been a full year since the land board granted the permits to begin construction on the $1.3 billion 30-meter telescope on Mauna Kea.

That sparked yet another challenge.

On Tuesday, opponents got what might be their final chance to stop a massive global project.

Thousands of feet below the peaks of Mauna Kea, there were hollers and horns for the pros of a new 30-meter telescope.

"We really need the jobs, for us and for our kids, and I think it would really put the Big Island on the map," said Mark Travalino, who is with the Hawaii State Union.

On the streets their support blended with the pounding and chanting from those preparing to stop the development from happening.

"You are an eyewitness to a crime scene of unspeakable proportions,"said Kinohi Neves, who spoke on behalf of his father and the rest of his family.

The state land board heard from several people challenging a decision to allow construction to begin on the 30-meter telescope or TMT, arguing the spiritual and natural damage would be irreversible.

"The summit landscape which was once breathtaking beautiful is now more akin to a city landscape in my eyes," said Deborah Ward.