http://pr.caltech.edu/media/Press_Releases/PR12708.html

Caltech News Release
For Immediate Release
June 9, 2005

Palomar Observatory to Hold Open House June 25

PALOMAR MOUNTAIN, Calif. - The California Institute of Technology's
Palomar Observatory invites the public to share the wonders of
exploring the universe during its open house on Saturday, June 25,
from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. Visitors will go behind the glass for an
insider's tour of the giant Hale Telescope.

Events at the open house will include tours of the 200-inch Hale and
60-inch telescopes, talks by Caltech and JPL astronomers, solar
observing (weather permitting), exhibits, prizes, and more. For
those with interests outside of astronomy, rangers from the Cleveland
National Forest Service will be on hand to answer questions and the
Palomar Mountain Volunteer Fire Department will have a vintage 1929
fire truck on display.

Walking is required to reach many of the open house events but buses
and tour guides will take people to a number of the events at the
observatory.

Admission to the open house is free. Food and beverages will be
available for purchase, along with Palomar Observatory and astronomy
souvenirs.

The Palomar Observatory is located at 35899 Canfield Road on Palomar
Mountain. To reach Palomar, exit Interstate 15 at State Highway 76
eastbound. Twenty-five miles from the interchange, County Road S-6
exits to the left and climbs to the Palomar summit, ending at the
observatory gates. Parking will be limited. (Please note that there
are no service stations on Palomar Mountain. Visitors should check
their fuel before driving to the observatory.)

Directions and more information is available at
http://friendsofpalomarobservatory.org or by calling (760) 742-2111.

MEDIA CONTACT:

Scott Kardel, Palomar Public Affairs Director
(760) 742-2111