Posted: Sun, Aug 30, 2009, 11:02 AM ET (1502 GMT)
A massive Southern California wildfire this weekend has closed NASA's Jet Propulsion Laboratory and threatens the historic observatory atop Mt. Wilson. The "Station Fire" in the San Gabriel Mountains north of Los Angeles has burned over 8,000 hectares and has led to the evacuation of thousands of homes in several cities bordering the blaze. JPL closed its main facility, near the southern edge of the fire, through the weekend to all but essential personnel. The fire has threatened the observatory atop Mt. Wilson, also home to a critical communications complex. Firefighters hope an end to current hot and dry weather conditions forecast for after today will help their efforts to contain the fire.

Related Links:

•  Los Angeles Times article
•  Pasadena Star-News article
•  Astroengine.com article
•  JPL web site
•  Mt. Wilson webcam