Griffith Park Observatory

Griffith Park Observatory (Source: Crystal Carter)

This landmark building is actually a fully functional space research center with lots of exhibits and demonstrations to spark your imagination.

What can you expect from a visit?

On our visit we were particularly interested in the Pendulum Clock which knocks down markers throughout the day and in doing so, illustrates the rotation of the Earth.

Pendulum Clock at Griffith Observatory (Source: Wiki Commons)

It takes up much of the foyer of the observatory and is breathtaking to behold. As it literally goes through the motions, it is an elegant reminder of the workings of our spaceship Earth.

Other activities include a working faraday cage, a detailed lunar model, tours, science demonstrations and the Samuel Oschin Planetarium planetarium.

Is it worth visiting?

Yes. Parking can be tricky but the Griffith Observatory is absolutely worth visiting and is a full day of adventure if you add in a walk around the grounds and tickets to some of the planetarium sessions.

The views from the observatory grounds are incredible and the green is a perfect place for a picnic.

Guest lectures & events

There is a regular calendar of astronomy shows and talks. The observatory also invites guest for special events. One such event included ESA astronaut Samantha Cristoforetti, who shared her experience as an European Space Agency astronaut and her travels to the International Space Station.