Griffith Observatory

Overview

Perched majestically on the southern slope of Mount Hollywood in Los Angeles, California, the Griffith Observatory offers a celestial journey alongside breathtaking panoramic views of the Los Angeles Basin, including the iconic Hollywood Sign, downtown skyline, and the Pacific Ocean. This celebrated landmark serves as a public observatory, planetarium, and exhibition space, dedicated to making astronomy and science accessible to everyone. Since its opening, it has welcomed millions of visitors, making it one of the most visited public observatories globally and a leading institution in public astronomy.

Its unique location within Griffith Park, one of the largest urban-wilderness municipal parks in the United States, further enhances its appeal, providing opportunities for hiking and enjoying nature, all while being immersed in scientific discovery.

History & Cultural Background

The story of Griffith Observatory begins with its benefactor, Griffith J. Griffith, who envisioned a place where the general public, not just scientists, could explore the cosmos. He donated 3,015 acres of land to the City of Los Angeles in 1896 and later, through his will, provided funds for the construction of an observatory, exhibit hall, and planetarium.

Construction began on June 20, 1933, with architects John C. Austin and Frederic Morse Ashley designing the building, which blends Greco-Roman and Art Deco architectural styles. The observatory officially opened its doors on May 14, 1935. During World War II, the planetarium played a crucial role in training pilots in celestial navigation, and in the 1960s, it was used to train astronauts for the Apollo program.

A significant renovation and expansion project took place from 2002 to 2006, restoring the original Art Deco building and adding new underground exhibit spaces, a cafe, a gift shop, and the Leonard Nimoy Event Horizon Theatre.

What Makes It Special

What truly sets Griffith Observatory apart is its unwavering commitment to public access and education. Admission to the building, its grounds, telescopes, and most exhibitions has always been free, fulfilling Colonel Griffith's founding vision. This makes it an invaluable resource for learning about space and science without financial barriers.

The observatory houses a variety of exhibits that engage visitors of all ages. These include the Wilder Hall of the Eye, which explores how humanity observes the sky, and the Ahmanson Hall of the Sky, focusing on human interaction with the sun and moon. The W.M. Keck Foundation Central Rotunda features captivating Hugo Ballin murals and a Foucault pendulum, demonstrating the Earth's rotation. The Samuel Oschin Planetarium, while ticketed, offers immersive live shows that transport audiences across the universe.

Moreover, the 12-inch Zeiss refracting telescope, housed in the rooftop dome, has been used by over eight million people, making it the most viewed telescope on Earth.

Stories, Fun Facts & Local Details

Beyond its scientific endeavors, the Griffith Observatory holds a special place in popular culture. Its distinctive architecture and stunning backdrop have made it a favorite filming location for numerous movies and television shows, including 'Rebel Without a Cause', 'The Terminator', and 'La La Land'. The site is instantly recognizable to film enthusiasts worldwide.

One fascinating exhibit is the Tesla coil, built in 1910 by Earle Ovington, which puts on a captivating hourly lightning display, showcasing a significant 19th-century invention. Another highlight is 'The Big Picture', the largest astronomically accurate image ever constructed, measuring 152 feet long by 20 feet high, depicting the Virgo Cluster of galaxies.

The Astronomers Monument, an outdoor concrete sculpture on the front lawn, pays tribute to six of history's greatest astronomers: Hipparchus, Copernicus, Galileo, Kepler, Newton, and Herschel. Interestingly, Griffith Observatory is one of the few major facilities in the world that still produces exclusively live planetarium shows.

Visitor Perspective

A visit to Griffith Observatory offers a multifaceted experience. Many visitors recommend arriving about an hour before sunset to enjoy the exhibits in daylight, witness a spectacular sunset over Los Angeles, and then experience the magic of stargazing after dark. The exterior grounds, terraces, and sidewalks are open daily from early morning until late evening, allowing for walks and views even when the building interior is closed.

While entry to the observatory building and most exhibits is free, there is a charge for shows in the Samuel Oschin Planetarium. Parking can be challenging, especially during peak times and weekends. Using public transportation, such as the DASH Observatory Bus from the Vermont/Sunset Metro station, or utilizing ride-sharing services, is often recommended to avoid congestion. The observatory provides public telescopes for visitors to look through, and staff and volunteers are often available to guide observations, especially during monthly 'Star Parties'.