Explore Astronomy at Lick Observatory

Join Karl at the Cabrillo College planetarium to explore basic astronomical concepts, learn about historic and modern instruments and methods, then take a trip to the Lick Observatory for a guided tour! Lick Observatory, a world class observatory and historic site, was founded in 1888, and was the first mountain top observatory in the U.S. It sits high atop Mount Hamilton at 4,200 feet elevation. The property includes historic and important modern research telescopes, beautiful architecture, and breathtaking views of the valley below and sky above like no other!
The first class meeting takes place at Cabrillo for a presentation and discussion of astronomical history and the development of telescopes, to help prepare you to get the most out of your evening at the Lick Observatory.
Your visit to the Lick Observatory includes a guided walking tour, a lecture on the history of Lick: the man and the observatory, and a visit to the dome of the famous 36 inch refractor telescope. Weather permitting, you will look through this awesome instrument. It was once the largest—and remains the 2nd largest refracting telescope in the world!
Please note, the trip to Lick Observatory includes 365 turns as you wind your way up Mount Hamilton road to the observatory! Plan to take it slow and take in the views as you make your way up the mountain. You may even plan to arrive at the site early for a picnic dinner as you enjoy some of the most spectacular views of the bay area you’ll ever see!
Wear comfortable shoes and bring warm clothes; the nights can be quite cool and we’ll be walking for most of the tour.