Guide Salutes

Although it has been several years since last visiting the Griffith Observatory, I had recollections of memorable features, experiences and exhibits including the classic and distinctive architecture, planetarium, pendulum and Tesla Coil, as I revisited the renovated observatory with eager anticipation when it opened in late 2006.

On final approach to the observatory, from my window-side seat aboard the shuttle that left from the Greek Theatre, I got my first glimpse of the enhanced celestial edifice. Before entering the observatory, I paused on the front lawn, facing the main structure comforted by the sight of the familiar classic three domed building, however noticed something quite alien; gone were the old green patina domes that looked like scoops of mint ice cream or one of my favorites, pistachio ice cream, replaced with three scooped of "dark chocolate" ice cream. With so much appearing the same as in my memories of the historic structure, I was eager to discover what surprises the Los Angeles landmark had in store.

Once inside I gazed down at the Foucault Pendulum well and noticed that it was the same old pendulum swinging back and forth, but someone pointed out that the pegs the pendulum used to knock over were gone. Perhaps they suffered the same fate as the pistachio ice cream cones.

By this time, I wanted to see what four years of renovation and 93 million dollars buys. First, I went into the camera obscura room , darkened area where a peculiar rotating image of the surrounding area is projected onto a dinette-like table. The camera obscura's mesmerizing image kept my attention for but a few moments like the pendulum. However my fixation quickly vanished as the former exhibit's camera made its second rotation reflecting a nearly identical image on the table before me.

I started off to view the Tesla Coil which was dark, cold and lifeless, like some planets, until a young, perky docent came by and with the turn of a key, the sleeping contraption sprung to life with its ear splitting, dancing bolts of electricity, performing for the crowd.

Next, I exited onto one of the observation terraces and was treated to an eyeful of breathtaking views of our beloved sea of humanity we call L.A. Making my way around the promenade walkway that wraps around the planetarium, I took in more splendid sweeping vistas of the city (get your cameras out) ending my short scenic journey at the line-forming adjacent to the Samuel Oschin Planetarium, the crowning jewel of the observatory and a must-see attraction. Once seated on one of the plush reclining chairs, the anticipation mounted as the house lights dimmed and the hostess for the show entered the darkened planetarium carrying a glowing orb in the palm of one of the hands. Setting the stage with dramatically presented background information, then stealthily disappearing, the hostess left the audience in pitch darkness and on the edge of their seats. Like an awakened mechanical beast rising from the underworld, the digital laser projector rose from the depths of the planetarium and projected fantastic images, including those of ancient civilizations, constellations and zodiac characters, onto the seamless dome. Complementing the dazzling display of projected images was a spectacular sound system, filling the audiences' ears with music and narration.

Impressed with the planetarium show, but wanting more, I ventured into the lower subterranean levels, by the Leonard Nimoy Event Horizon Theater. However, I decided to skip that show and proceed to the Gunther Depths of Space exhibits. Displayed in the this exhibit hall were meteorites and the stories behind them including one that struck a woman who lived to tell about her experience. Other exhibits of interest included "The Big Picture", an enormous composite photomural stretching the entire length of the exhibit hall, depicting constellations, nebulae and even whole galaxies. Additionally, there were exhibits containing interesting facts about the Solar System's eight planets; with concessions made to accommodate Pluto, now classified as a dwarf planet.

While the Sun, which I learned, is actually at the center of the Solar System, set...just kidding, set, I enjoyed a meal on the Cafe at the End of the Universe's terrace overlooking the city with its lights twinkling like the stars above. What a perfect way to end my day at the Griffith Observatory.

GUIDE SALUTES

THE RETURN OF THE GRIFFITH OBSERVATORY