Lofgren Celebrates Lick Observatory's 150th Anniversary

Image June 8, 2026 Press Release WASHINGTON, DC – Today, Congresswoman Zoe Lofgren (CA-18), ranking member of the House Science, Space, and Technology Committee, introduced a resolution marking 150 years since Congress authorized use of federal lands on Mount Hamilton for James Lick Observatory. “Once housing the largest telescope on Earth, the Lick Observatory brings an immense amount of pride for Santa Clara County,” said Rep. Zoe Lofgren . “Over the past 150 years, this has been the site of incredible astronomic discoveries, and it's where thousands of visitors have discovered their love of science. I commend the University of California for its stewardship of this iconic facility. As the lead Democrat on the House Science, Space, and Technology Committee, I will always advocate for federal investment in the valuable research and education programs at Lick Observatory.” Lick Observatory, located in California's 18 th district, was the world's first permanently staffed mountaintop observatory. Jupiter's moon, Amalthea, was discovered at Lick Observatory in 1892. The James Lick telescope to this day remains the 3 rd largest refracting telescope in the world. Text of the resolution is available here . ### Issues : Innovation and Technology