Observing Nights 2025

Tickets are refundable 48 hours prior to the event. If you return your ticket, you will be issued a refund minus Eventbrite fees. If we cancel the event, you will be issued a full refund.

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.

Doors open 45 minutes prior to beginning of the tour. Late arrivals for ticket holders can be accommodated until the end of the history lecture, when the gate closes. If possible, let us know that you’ll be running late at tickets@ucolick.org

Due to the historic construction of the telescope domes, the 36-inch Great Refractor Telescope is not wheelchair accessible at this time. Those who have difficulty navigating stairs may also find the telescope observing inaccessible.

We strive to make your visit as complete and meaningful as possible. Please let us know if you will need special assistance (for example, if you will have difficulty climbing stairs), so we can make the necessary arrangements.

Please allow a one-hour drive from San Jose. The road is good, but windy. The event typically lasts between 4 and 6 hours; prepare to drive home late in the evening. Parking is limited at the Observatory, so we encourage car pooling. There are no automative services or gas stations for 20 miles, so please plan ahead. See more information on driving directions and parking here.

We advise that children be at least 8 years old to participate. We trust parents and caregivers to use their judgment in determining the suitability of purchasing a ticket for their child.

Mt Hamilton is a remote location. There is no food or gas at the observatory. Bring layers as the mountaintop can get chilly!