Ever wondered what’s out there in space? How can we explore the stars without leaving earth? The Griffith Observatory in Los Angeles is your door to the universe. It gives stunning views of the city and lets you learn about the sky.
Walk in and start a journey of discovery. This place is perfect for anyone who loves the night sky. There are amazing exhibits, shows, and tools to make you wonder about the universe more.
Want to see space up close? Wondering when to see planets or a total solar eclipse? Looking for advice on making your visit great? We’ve got all that covered here.
Our guide will help you understand the Griffith Observatory better. We’ll give you tips on when to visit and what to look out for in the sky. It’s everything you need for an awesome trip.
Ready to explore the universe’s secrets with us? Let’s have an amazing time at the Griffith Observatory.
Griffith Observatory Hours
Want to visit the Griffith Observatory? You can do so between 10:00 a.m. and 10:00 p.m. It’s a place filled with wonders. From cool exhibits to stunning shows in the planetarium, you won’t be bored. And remember to use the public telescopes to see the stars up close.
Be ready for a busy time with parking. But, there are spots not far from the observatory. No matter how you get there, visiting the Griffith Observatory website first is smart. It has all the details on where to park and how to get there.
Griffith Observatory Hours:
- Monday: 10:00 a.m. – 10:00 p.m.
- Tuesday: 10:00 a.m. – 10:00 p.m.
- Wednesday: 10:00 a.m. – 10:00 p.m.
- Thursday: 10:00 a.m. – 10:00 p.m.
- Friday: 10:00 a.m. – 10:00 p.m.
- Saturday: 10:00 a.m. – 10:00 p.m.
- Sunday: 10:00 a.m. – 10:00 p.m.
Always look up the latest info or events on the Griffith Observatory website. Do this before visiting. Get ready for an amazing time exploring the cosmos. The Griffith Observatory awaits you!
Stargazing and Sky Events
Visiting Griffith Observatory means diving into the beauty of the night sky. The observatory shares a monthly sky report to enhance your stargazing experience. It covers everything happening in the southern California sky like planet visibility, meteor showers, and moon phases.
Using this sky report, you can plan when to stargaze. It ensures you catch special events like planet movements, meteor showers, or moon cycles. The report helps you not miss out on these sky wonders.
Upcoming Sky Events
- Perseid Meteor Shower: Don’t miss out on the fast and bright Perseid meteors on August 12th. They will light up the sky in a breathtaking show from Griffith Observatory.
- Supermoon: On September 14th, see a supermoon make the night sky glow. It’s when the moon is closest to Earth, appearing bigger and brighter than usual.
- Lunar Eclipse: Watch Earth’s shadow color the moon red during a lunar eclipse. Griffith Observatory’s next chance to see this is on May 16th, 2022.
Using the Sky Report
The sky report details a month’s worth of celestial events. This allows you to plan your visit for the best experience. It tells you the best times to view events and where in the observatory to go for the best sights.
For anyone who loves astronomy or wants an incredible experience, the Griffith Observatory sky report is a must-have guide. It keeps you informed about all the sky wonders over southern California.
Planets and Celestial Objects
Discover the beauty of our solar system and the amazing planets and objects not on Earth. At the Griffith Observatory, we tell you all about Mercury, Venus, Mars, Jupiter, Saturn, Uranus, and Neptune. This info is perfect for those starting or already into stargazing.
Every month, get must-know facts about when and how to see these planets. Knowing when and where to look makes your stargazing better. See Venus shining bright, Mars glowing red, or Jupiter and Saturn’s massive storms.
Looking at these objects safely means using the right tools. Our experts share how to use filters and pick the best times for watching. These tips will make your sky watching more exciting and safe.
Learn more about our universe and get closer to the stars. Visit the Griffith Observatory and see the universe up close.
| Planet | Rise Time | Set Time | Illumination | Angular Size |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Mercury | Varies | Varies | Varies | Varies |
| Venus | Varies | Varies | Varies | Varies |
| Mars | Varies | Varies | Varies | Varies |
| Jupiter | Varies | Varies | Varies | Varies |
| Saturn | Varies | Varies | Varies | Varies |
| Uranus | Varies | Varies | Varies | Varies |
| Neptune | Varies | Varies | Varies | Varies |
Special Events
Griffith Observatory has awesome special events all year. These include the cool eta Aquariid meteor shower and the big total solar eclipse happening in 2024.
The eta Aquariid meteor shower happens every May. It is most amazing from the southern part of the Earth. The Observatory shares key details on when and how to see this shower. This makes sure visitors catch its beauty.
The Observatory also shows live events like the total solar eclipse. These events are breathtaking for anyone watching from anywhere. By watching the Observatory’s live broadcast, you can see the total solar eclipse in all its stunning glory.
Observatory Programs and Events
Visiting the Griffith Observatory opens doors to exciting programs and events. It’s a place where anyone, whether just starting or an avid astronomy fan, can have fun.
Samuel Oschin Planetarium: Dive into space at the Samuel Oschin Planetarium. Enjoy live shows that explore everything, from black holes to our own solar system.
Public Telescope Observing: Look through powerful telescopes at the Griffith Observatory. See stars, planets, and more up close. It’s a great way to feel closer to the sky, whether you’re new or experienced.
Star Parties: Don’t miss the monthly star parties. Both beginners and experts are welcome. Meet astronomers, see space through telescopes, and talk about the universe. It’s a chance to be amazed by the night sky and share the experience.
The Griffith Observatory mixes learning with fun perfectly. From planetarium shows to star parties, there are many ways to enjoy and understand space. Join in and meet others who love looking up at the stars.
Explore the Observatory
The Griffith Observatory welcomes you to a thrilling space journey. Its exhibits share a lot about the universe. With 60 engaging displays, you’ll dive into the world of stars and planets. Each exhibit is made to spark your interest and help you understand our cosmic home better.
It’s found in Griffith Park, America’s biggest city wilderness. The observatory sits among beautiful paths, tall trees, and many sights. While looking at the displays, you’ll see stunning views, including the famous Hollywood Sign on the hills.
There are interactive displays that make learning about space fun. You can see the universe like a real astronomer. Look at big stars, find out about space’s secrets, and discover new things about space science.
The Samuel Oschin Planetarium is a must-see. Here, you can take space trips from your seat. Its huge dome screen shows you the beauty of space. It feels like you’re flying through stars and galaxies.
Notable Griffith Observatory Exhibits
| Exhibit Name | Description |
|---|---|
| Astronomy in Action | Discover how astronomers study the universe and witness demonstrations of their methods. |
| Edge of Space | Explore the boundary where our planet meets the vacuum of space and learn about space missions and exploration. |
| Solar Systems | Uncover the mysteries of our solar system, from the sun and its planets to dwarf planets and other celestial bodies. |
| Stellar Evolution | Witness the life cycle of stars, from their birth in cosmic nurseries to their explosive deaths. |
| Scale of the Universe | Experience the vastness of the cosmos through interactive displays that showcase the scales and sizes of celestial objects. |
No matter if you love space or just wonder about it, Griffith Observatory is awesome for all. It shows why space is amazing, no matter your age. Come visit to really feel the magic of the universe and time.
Observing the Sky
When you go to the Griffith Observatory, you can become a sky observer. They have free telescopes for the public. This lets you see celestial objects up close. You can use the telescopes there or information to watch from home. The universe’s wonders are waiting for you to explore.
The Griffith Observatory shares a weekly Sky Report. This report is full of useful info for Los Angeles. It tells you what’s in the night sky. You’ll know where planets are, the moon’s phases, and big celestial events. It helps you plan when to go stargazing and keeps you informed about cosmic news.
| Date | Planet Visibility | Moon Phase | Celestial Events |
|---|---|---|---|
| June 1 | Mars and Jupiter visible in the evening sky | First Quarter | Partial lunar eclipse |
| June 8 | Mercury visible just before sunrise | Full Moon | None |
| June 15 | Saturn visible in the predawn sky | Last Quarter | Perseid meteor shower peak |
With the Sky Report, you can plan perfect stargazing nights. You’ll see amazing cosmic shows. Griffith Observatory helps you spot everything, from giant planets to beautiful meteor showers. It makes your night sky experience unforgettable.
Take your telescope or just go out in the backyard. Use the Sky Report’s info to start your adventure. Griffith Observatory is your window to space. It’s full of chances to learn and watch the stars.
Plan Your Visit
Planning a visit to Griffith Observatory is easy with the website’s helpful info. The observatory sits on the south slope of Mount Hollywood, offering an amazing time for stargazers and visitors. But, making sure how you’ll get there and where to park is crucial.
For reaching Griffith Observatory, you’ve got a few choices. The park has buses for public transportation. Or, enjoy the view by walking or biking through Griffith Park’s lovely trails to the observatory.
Driving there? There’s parking, but it can be tough to find a spot. Griffith Observatory is super popular, so roads and parking fill up fast. It’s smart to arrive early and plan your parking strategy.
Need more info on getting there and where to park? Check out Griffith Observatory’s website. It’s got all the directions, maps, and the latest on road and parking conditions.
Plan your visit checklist:
- Check the official Griffith Observatory website for the most accurate and up-to-date information on location, transportation, and parking options.
- Consider taking advantage of public transportation, walking, or biking to reach the observatory.
- If driving, plan your route in advance and arrive early to secure a parking spot.
- Prepare for busy roads and parking areas, especially during peak times.
About the Observatory
The Griffith Observatory is famous for showing us the wonders of the sky. It’s in Griffith Park, making it hard to miss. This place has been a key spot for learning about space and sharing that knowledge.
The Samuel Oschin Planetarium stands out at Griffith. It brings the universe closer to us with its shows. The tech there makes it feel like you’re really in space, learning and having fun.
“The Samuel Oschin Planetarium offers visitors a unique opportunity to explore the mysteries of the cosmos through captivating presentations.”
Griffith Observatory also has amazing views of L.A. and the Hollywood Sign. You can see the beautiful city and stars together. It’s a great place to feel amazed and learn.
History of Griffith Observatory
The Observatory opened in 1935, thanks to Colonel Griffith J. Griffith. His dream was to share the universe with everyone. Since then, Griffith Observatory has been a leader in space research and sharing knowledge. People from all over come to see it.
Samuel Oschin Planetarium
Named after Samuel Oschin, the Planetarium is a must-see. It has shows that help us explore space’s deepest secrets. Each show brings something special about space to our eyes.
| Show Name | Description |
|---|---|
| Planetarium Show 1 | Explore the wonders of the solar system and learn about the planets, moons, and other celestial objects in our cosmic neighborhood. |
| Planetarium Show 2 | Journey to the far reaches of the universe and witness the beauty and complexity of galaxies, nebulae, and other deep sky objects. |
| Planetarium Show 3 | Experience the excitement of space exploration as you learn about the history and future of human spaceflight. |
If you love space or just want to learn more, the Samuel Oschin Planetarium is a great choice. You’ll walk away impressed by what’s out there.
Follow Griffith Observatory
Keep up with Griffith Observatory by following its social media. You can find it on Facebook, Instagram, YouTube, and Twitter. By following, you’ll get updates on space events and the latest in astronomy.
Griffith Observatory shares amazing content on its channels. You’ll see beautiful pictures of space and learn from educational articles. Plus, you’ll get to peek behind the scenes of the Observatory.
It’s a cool way to stay connected and keep learning about space. So, don’t miss the latest news. Join Griffith Observatory’s community online for a fun space journey.
