Music in a Temple of Science
The author, at around age 12, in front of the 100-inch dome. (Photo: Theodore Havel)
The Mount Wilson Solar Observatory was founded in 1904 by George Hale, who was also a trustee of Throop Polytechnic Institute (which later became Caltech). The first telescope built on-site was the Snow Solar Telescope in 1904, followed closely by the 60-foot Solar Tower and the 60-inch telescope, both of which were completed in 1908. Hale hosted many famous individuals during this time, including Andrew Carnegie in 1910 and Harlow Shapley in 1914. Carnegie was the main financial supporter of the observatory from its inception in 1904, and Shapley was an astronomer who discovered our position in the Milky Way galaxy using the 60-inch telescope.
Funded by John Hooker and Andrew Carnegie, the 100-inch Hooker telescope began construction in 1906, but was not completed until 1917. With its completion, a new dormitory was also built. Many famous scientists traveled up the mountain, including Edwin Hubble in the 1920s and Albert Einstein in 1931. In 1924, Hubble used the 100-inch telescope to show that there are other galaxies beyond the Milky Way, and in 1929, he proved that the universe is expanding.
A sign found inside the base building of the 150-foot solar tower, another early observation structure. (Photo: Theodore Havel)
Eventually, the 100-inch telescope became obsolete for deep-sky observation due to the light pollution from the Los Angeles area, leading to the decision to convert it into a public-use viewing telescope. It is currently used for public outreach. Mount Wilson Observatory started hosting concerts in the 100-inch dome in 2017, and additionally, hosts lectures and telescope viewings.
Every summer for nearly a decade, the Mount Wilson Observatory has hosted musical events in the 100-inch dome. I’ve attended four, and the acoustics are amazing. If you attend an event, be prepared for a mountainous drive and wear comfortable shoes, as the walk from the parking lot to the dome is moderate. (Depending on the time of year, be prepared to layer your clothing.)
Visit www.mtwilson.edu/events to view information about this summer’s series and other events hosted on the mountain.
“No creative work, whether in engineering or in art, in literature or in science, has been the work of a [person] devoid of the imaginative faculty.” — George Hale
Have a great summer, everyone!