Lick Observatory Visit

I’m not sure what was worse: the drive to the observatory or the fact we also almost hit an (angry) cow on the drive back.

This weekend Jules and I decided to check out someplace we hadn’t been before. After thinking about it for a bit, we ended up choosing Lick Observatory. This Observatory we can see from our apartment and I’ve always wanted to check it out.

However, we didn’t get too much time to actually explore since we left in the early afternoon and underestimated how much time it would take to get there. The route up to Lick is extremely curvy (reminded us of Page Mill Road) and it’s basically impossible to go over 20 MPH in certain areas. An added bonus was a distinct lack of guardrails with 70+ degree slopes right next to the road!

After a harrowing hour long drive up there, we arrived right before a storm rolled in. It was freezing at the top of this remote mountain! We quickly snapped some shots of the view before we ducked inside to check out one of the telescopes. Not only the age of the telescope surprised us, but also the floor around the telescope is hydraulically controlled to get people closer to it. (I really wish I had a fisheye lens with me)

By the time the 20 minute talk was over, we wanted to check out the other telescope on the mountain. The rain had increased, so we hedged our bets, and headed back home instead. On the way down, we turned (one of many) corners and came across a wandering cow and calf. The cow did not look happy to see us- we were shocked however. After grabbing a picture, we scooted out the way and continued home.

We are planning to visit again this summer. Interested in joining us?