1949 Map of Palomar Observatory

About this map

Palomar Observatory crowns the high ridge of Palomar Mountain, where scientific progress and rugged topography meet. This mid-century record detail both the Hale Telescope (200-inch) and the 18-inch Telescope, highlighting the area's role in global astronomy. Beyond the observatory grounds, the landscape drops into deep drainages and cattle pastures like Bull Pasture and the wide Mendenhall Valley. To the south, the La Jolla Indian Reservation borders the San Luis Rey River, while mining history is preserved at the Ware Mine and the Maple Lode Mine on the slopes of Aguanga Mountain. The network of fire roads, including the Palomar Divide Truck Trail and Lusardi Truck Trail, reflects early forest management within the Cleveland National Forest.