Mount Wilson Observatory |

VISIT MOUNT WILSON OBSERVATORY

Located on Mount Wilson, a 5,710-foot peak in the San Gabriel Mountains near Pasadena, California, the Observatory was conceived and founded by George Ellery Hale in 1904. The home of some of the most important telescopes in the development of modern astronomy - including the two largest telescopes of their time - it is a site of significant scientific and Los Angeles history. The Observatory and grounds are open to the public to visit, and during the spring and summer hosts public programs including observing through the historic telescopes, lectures, concerts, educational programs, and more.

PLAN YOUR VISIT

TOURS

Explore the history, science, and technology of Mount Wilson Observatory
Weekend Public Tours | Engineering Tours | Private Tours | Self-Guided Tours | Virtual Tour

EVENTS

Concerts, lectures, public telescope nights, & more!
Concerts in the Dome | Talks & Telescopes | Arts @ the Observatory | All Events

OBSERVING

For an experience of a lifetime, view celestial objects through our historic 60-inch or 100-inch telescopes.
Telescope Reservations | Solar Observing | Public Ticket Nights

HISTORY

Conceived & founded by George Ellery Hale in 1904, the observatory is home of some of the most important telescopes in the development of modern astronomy.
Our Founder | Our History | Mount Wilson Astronomers | Reflections Newsletter

EVENTS & PROGRAMS

Join us on the Mountain! There are a wide range of activities and events, including telescope viewings, engineering tours, concerts, astronomy lectures, film screenings, and art events! Check them out below, sign up for a few, and come explore our beautiful Observatory campus. You can see our full calendar of events HERE.

Every ticket purchase helps to support and preserve this historic observatory for generations to come. Thank you!

LAAS Star Party – November 15

November 15, 2025 – November 16, 2025

CANCELLED – RESCHEDULED TO DEC 13

More Info & Tickets

LAAS Star Party – December 13

December 13, 2025 – December 14, 2025

Come join us for a public star party and spend a relaxing evening in the San Gabriel Mountains under the stars looking through telescopes provided by the members of the Los Angeles Astronomical Society!

More Info & Tickets

SEE ALL EVENTS

SUPPORT Our MISSION

The mission of the Mount Wilson Institute is to manage & promote the Mount Wilson Observatory for scientific research, historic preservation, education, public engagement, and the arts. Your generous support keeps our mission alive!
Donate | Become a Member | Volunteer | Shop

EDUCATION

Our Education programs are led by astronomers from world-renowned institutes. Students learn, at any level, about the astrophysics that led Hubble to discover the expanding Universe.
Grades 4-12 STEM Program | Adult Summer Observational Astrophysics Retreat

VISIT MOUNT WILSON OBSERVATORY

EVENTS & PROGRAMS

Every ticket purchase helps to support and preserve this historic observatory for generations to come. Thank you!

Due to the rainy weather, no tours will be given this weekend (Nov 15/16).