The Griffith Observatory in Southern California has been open since 1935 and since then has welcomed over 85 million visitors. But did you know they have a YouTube channel?
The Griffith Observatory makes a monthly series called “Sky Report,” where they feature the visible stars, the phase of the moon, nebulae, and even meteor showers. Sadly, they only get about an average of 500 views per video.
What is Griffith Observatory?
Griffith Observatory is known to be one of the most iconic places in Los Angeles. It is a national leader in public astronomy and is one of California’s most popular attractions. The Observatory is located in the southern part of California, specifically on the slope of Mount Hollywood in Griffith Park. The location is the best vantage point in observing the world-famous Hollywood sign.
Ever since its opening in 1935, the Observatory has had over 85 million visitors. They are open late every evening and is one of the places you get to see people from different parts of the world. (Source: Griffith Observatory)
How Much is Admission?
Since the facility is owned and operated by the City of Los Angeles, there is no admission fee for the Observatory. The facility was constructed using the funds of Griffith J. Griffith, the man who donated the land for Griffith Park in 1896. He specified what the purpose and features of the building would be in his 1919 will.
The facility’s construction was completed in 1935 and then turned over to the Department of Recreation and Parks of the City of Los Angeles. By the time of its opening, it was one of the first institutions in the United States dedicated to public science. (Source: Griffith Observatory)
What Was The Inspiration Behind the Observatory?
Griffith J. Griffith, the man behind the Observatory’s creation, dwelled on the concept of having a public observatory. In the 20th century, the idea was very new, but Griffith had already developed a specific plan on what his facility should have.
Back in 1904, Griffith had a great experience at the Mount Wilson Observatory, where he was able to use a 60-inch telescope. At this point, he decided that there needed to be a similar facility in Los Angeles. That way, people could share his profound experience. It wasn’t long till people realized his vision when the Observatory was finally standing and serving millions of people. (Source: Griffith Observatory)
What is the Sky Report Series?
If you are an astronomy enthusiast, you would have already heard of Sky Report. The series is an information-rich summary of what Californians can expect to see as soon as the sun sets. David Nakamoto, a planetarium engineer, provides all the need-to-know details, and the Sky Report has been running for years even if they don’t get that many views. You can find their YouTube channel on this link.
A telescope will show a wonderful sight, with details on both planets visible with suitable magnification. This is the only evening when they’ll be this close. The Moon can’t help in locating them; it’s too far to the east.
David Nakamoto
As of today, the Griffith Observatory’s youtube channel has over 41,000 subscribers with an average of 500 views per video. For such amazing content, they should have more views. (Source: NBC)