Lick Observatory is CLOSED to the public due to wind damage sustained during the Dec 24th to 25th storm. The observatory will remain closed until a full assessment of the damage has been completed and public safety can be assured.
Eventbrite

Roof Damage Main Building Lick Observatory Mount Hamilton, CA
The observing floor is fully covered in plastic and water is being captured around the outer edge.
A temporary water management system was completed last night and is performing well.
exploratory work in the attic to assess the extent of any structural or water damage and determine next steps.

Work to protect Lick Observatory ahead of the incoming storm has made strong progress.

Our construction crew has finished sealing the holes in the roof of the Main Building. Exploratory work in the attic is now underway to assess the extent of any structural or water damage and determine next steps.

At the 36-inch Refractor Telescope, the south shutter has been secured in the open position to prevent further damage to the remaining shutter. Engineering calculations showed that keeping it closed would create greater wind uplift than leaving it open under the forecasted conditions, making the open position the safer option.

A temporary water management system was completed last night and is performing well, with the observing floor fully covered in plastic and water being captured around the outer edge. Dry, warm air continues to be pumped into the basement of the dome to help dry out the wooden floor.

Further assessments and stabilization work will continue as conditions allow.

How you can help

We know that science is important to you, and that you consider Lick Observatory to be the treasure that it is. If you are able and can support us at this time, will you join us and commit a gift to Lick Observatory’s Director Fund to help us recover?

Donate Now!
A gift to the Director’s Fund ensures we have what we need to address funding shortfalls as a result of this unexpected and tragic event. 

Donations collected through January will underwrite, in part, staff overtime, efforts to secure the site to prevent further damage, as well as other priorities as they unfold. Your gift at this time helps us mitigate future risks.

Thank you for your ongoing support of Lick Observatory. Your gifts ensure that Lick Observatory continues to inspire the public and provide valuable tools to answer Astronomy’s biggest questions.