Lick Observatory is currently CLOSED to the public. Access to the Observatory grounds and visitor services is unavailable at this time, including restrooms and parking. Modified public programs such as Evening Tours and Observing Nights are expected to resume later this summer. Follow us on:
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Welcome to Lick Observatory

WE REMAIN CLOSED AT THIS TIME.
Due to the current closure, the Observatory grounds and visitor services are not accessible at this time. This includes self-guided walking tours, restrooms, and visitor parking. Please check this page for the latest updates on reopening and visitor information.

Early on Thursday, Dec. 25, severe winds gusting up to 114 miles per hour tore across Mount Hamilton. The multi-ton shutter section fell outward onto the roof of the Great Hall, crushing several structural beams.

The Great Refractor telescope was not damaged during the incident, its precision lenses and electrical systems are now protected from the rain.

“Restoring the dome will be a long process, measured in months, not weeks. But we know why this work matters, and we are committed to bringing people back to the experience of awe that the Great Refractor has inspired for generations.”

If you would like to contribute make a gift online.

TO MAIL A CHECK - Click here for more info
Please make your check payable to “UC Santa Cruz Foundation” and make sure to include Lick Observatory in the memo line. Please mail it to:

UC Santa Cruz Foundation
Attn: Gift Administration
1156 High St
Santa Cruz, CA 95064
For gifts or pledges of more than $25,000, please contact Allison DeLauer adelauer@ucolick.org.
If you’d like to give through your donor advised fund, the UC Santa Cruz Foundation Tax Identification Number is 23-7394590.

On February 3–4, the temporary cover for the 36-inch refractor telescope dome was completed. A time-lapse video shows the installation of the final waterproof layer and metal flashing to secure the dome slit cover, along with ongoing repairs to the Main Building roof.

With the historic telescope and dome now protected, staff and engineers are developing a plan for permanent dome repairs. Building repairs are ongoing.

Since 1888, Lick has provided UC astronomers with access to world-leading optical-infrared observing equipment.

Lick Observatory is a multi-campus research unit owned and operated by the University of California. Read more...
It is a major site in the University of California Observatories (UCO), which is headquartered at UC Santa Cruz and responsible for its operations. Lick began operations in 1888 as part of the University of California, founded by a bequest from James Lick, real-estate entrepreneur and California’s wealthiest citizen. Read more. Our research mission continues today utilizing modern research telescopes and innovative high-tech cameras and instruments. Lick Observatory is committed to the education of the next generation of astronomers. Read more. Education of the general public is also a key component of Lick Observatory activities. The Visitor Center exhibits highlight Lick Observatory’s science research, technology, and history. Lick Observatory’s research, facilities, public education and outreach programs are supported in part by generous donations from individuals like you!  Donate to Lick Observatory!

© 2015 Laurie Hatch. Visiting Lick has long been a favorite outing for Bay Area families, with a number of activities ensuring an informative and enjoyable evening.

Lick Observatory’s Annual Summer Series
Because of the damage, this year’s events will be limited. We’re finalizing the program and will share more details in the coming weeks. Sign up to our mailing list for updates.

Tickets for the limited 2026 season go on sale in spring via Eventbrite follow us for updates!

Members of Friends of Lick Observatory (FoLO) enjoy early access—ticket sales open one week before the general public.

Become a member of Lick Observatory Friends!

Current Conditions at Lick Observatory

The HamCam web cameras are on a fixed mount providing a view from Lick Observatory on the summit of 4200’ Mount Hamilton. HamCam1 shows San Jose, California and South San Francisco Bay, while HamCam2 shows the Observatory east of the historic Main Building. Click on either camera image to go to the HamCam web site and view current images from all our web cameras.[/su_note]

HamCam1_Image
Current HamCam1 image		 HamCam2_Image
Current HamCam2 image

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