The preceding pages show the telescope that was chosen for the new site. Now, a new dark location had to be found.

Lee Hoglan then began a relentless, multi-year search for the new observatory location. His travels led him literally hundreds of miles across the northern calfornia terrain. On many occasions, the search was thought to have been concluded, however, Reasons crept up to prevent the purchase. Below are photos of the primary sites that were visited, photographed, and then nullified for acquisition:

This is the site at Westport, California. it is approximately 50 miles east of Stockton, at an elevation of 4,000 feet. A recent forest fire left the horizon clear in all directions.

Initially this site was chosen, however evening observations by Lee Hoglan showed that there was city light glare from Stockton to 40 degrees in the western horizon. Therefore, this 10 acre parcel was precluded from the list. Other than the glare, this was a gorgeous site and flat.

Looking south from the center of the property.

This site near 25 miles southeast of Hollister, California was actually approved and authorized for purchase. However, on the day before closing, it was learned that the site was a wind tunnel for most of the year. As it lay high above the valley floor, as shown in the photo, but this caused a wind tunnel effect precluding this otherwise fabulous 10 acre parcel.

(Pictured above is Mike Zlab loseing his keys)

Another site that was on the final list was this beautiful 20 acres in the eastern fothills, 75 miles from Modesto. Unfortunately, it had no road access to the top, and not much flat land for an observation area.

Another nice mountain site, just to the west of Yosemite at 4,000 feet elevation.

This property came with its own shed.

This site had a nice flat top, ready for construction. The seller, however, would not agree to sell a single parcel as advertised, again preventing the purchase.

The property also had a gravel road with good access to the highway.