Early Thursday morning, winds in the region reached an astonishing 114 mph, causing significant damage to the University of California Lick Observatory. Located in the hills east of San Jose, this nearly 140-year-old telescope will remain closed until necessary structural assessments and repairs are complete.
Impact of the Strong Winds on the Observatory
The powerful wind gusts affected the Great Refractor dome, tearing loose half of its shutter. This heavy piece fell onto the roof of an adjacent building, resulting in the crushing of several structural beams. Fortunately, the telescope itself was not directly damaged, but its precision lenses and electrical equipment are now vulnerable to rain exposure.
Safety and Response
In the wake of the storm, which also triggered a tornado warning in Santa Cruz, no injuries were reported. Bruce MacIntosh, director of the observatories, expressed his heartbreak over the damage. The incident was described as “a frightening moment for our staff” by Matthew Shetrone, the observatories’ deputy director.
- The damage occurred at the historic Lick Observatory, a research facility of the University of California.
- The observatory hosts over 3,000 visitors annually.
- Staff members are assessing the situation to prevent further damage and plan restoration efforts.
The remaining telescopes on-site, which are more modern, were not directly damaged and continue to operate. However, staff members are taking measures to secure the facility and develop a timeline for its reopening to the public.
Research conducted at the observatory involves senior astronomers and undergraduate students from all nine UC undergraduate campuses, as well as community college partners. Bruce MacIntosh emphasized the remarkable response by staff to stabilize and protect the telescope during this challenging time.
