Observing Night: Thursday August 14, 2025

Come look through the telescope just like professional astronomers did in the 1800s and experience how they made ground-breaking discoveries within our universe!

Early arrivers will have the chance to learn more about history on a short, 20-minute guided tour around the main Visitor Center. The event starts after sunset with a lecture on the history of the observatory, exploring who is James Lick and how the observatory came to be constructed. Following, there will be 2 hours of observing through the Great Refractor telescope, including viewing of at least two objects.

This event will be approximately 3 to 4 hours long.

Learn more about Observing Night here!
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Friends of Lick Observatory gain early access to tickets on April 9th.

General sales start on April 16th.

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7:30 pm Doors Open

7:45 pm Optional Guided Tour of Visitor Center

8:15 pm History Lecture Beings

9:00 pm Observing Begins

Our Gift Shop will also be open from doors open until the start of the history lecture.

If weather conditions do not permit observing, the event will be canceled, and you will receive a full refund. We will aim to notify you at least 24 hours in advance. A final decision will be made by 3pm on the day of the event.

Lecture will start promptly! Doors will close 15 minutes after observing begins.

Be prepared for a late night drive home. The event lasts between 3-4 hours.

Allow a one-hour drive from San Jose. The road is winding so expect to drive slowly.

There are no gas stations, EV charging stations, or automotive services at Lick Observatory. The nearest gas station is 20 miles away in San Jose.

See more information on driving directions and parking here.

Children under age 8 are not recommended to attend this event due to late hours.

To view through the Great Refractor Telescope you need to be able to climb at least a few step stairs.

Due to the historic nature of the observatory, the telescope dome is not wheelchair accessible.

For special assistance, email dGlja2V0cyB8IHVjb2xpY2sgISBvcmc= to discuss options. We will do our best to make the most accommodations possible.

Wear casual, comfortable warm layers and walking shoes. After dark it can be windy and cold.

Complimentary coffee, tea, and hot chocolate are included with the evening. Snacks and beverages are also available for purchase at the gift shop. Vending machines and water fountains are also accessible.

We recommend you bring a small flashlight - lighting is limited outside the buildings.

If you can’t find the answer to a question here please contact us at dGlja2V0cyB8IHVjb2xpY2sgISBvcmc=