Stars Align For Griffith Observatory's Re-Opening

Arguably the most popular observatory-museum-planetarium in the world, the newly-restored Griffith Observatory is also one of the most recognizable buildings in Los Angeles.

2 minute read

May 23, 2006, 6:00 AM PDT

By Josh Stephens @jrstephens310


"Griffith Observatory was always intended to be a public observatory and to complement the work that was done at more remote research observatories by conveying the results of their discoveries through direct experience as well as professional interpretation to the general public. That’s what Colonel Griffith intended in his leaving of a gift for the construction of the observatoryâ€"to make it a place where in fact people could not only learn about what was going on in the heavens, but also to see it for themselves, with their eyeballs to the universe -- and that's what Griffith Observatory in fact does."

"Looking at the role of the Observatory in connection with other observatories, it is fair to say that Griffith is one of the world's preeminent public observatories on the best piece of public observatory real estate in the world, and through this renovation it is going to continue its history of bringing people into connection with the sky."

"If what Los Angeles has done with Griffith Observatory isn't a clear signal of Los Angeles's commitment to its heritage and to the values that this building representsâ€"science, science education, a look towards the futureâ€"and a real desire to integrate all of these aspirations into the landscape and fabric of life in Los Angeles, honestly I don't know what would. Griffith Observatory is about as visible a piece of architectural improvement and preservation as you could imagine."

Thanks to Josh Stephens

Monday, May 22, 2006 in The Planning Report

portrait of professional woman

I love the variety of courses, many practical, and all richly illustrated. They have inspired many ideas that I've applied in practice, and in my own teaching. Mary G., Urban Planner

I love the variety of courses, many practical, and all richly illustrated. They have inspired many ideas that I've applied in practice, and in my own teaching.

Mary G., Urban Planner

Get top-rated, practical training

Red 1972 Ford Pinto with black racing stripes on display with man sitting in driver's seat.

Analysis: Cybertruck Fatality Rate Far Exceeds That of Ford Pinto

The Tesla Cybertruck was recalled seven times last year.

July 2, 2025 - Mother Jones

Close-up of park ranger in green jacket and khaki hat looking out at Bryce Canyon National Park red rock formations.

National Parks Layoffs Will Cause Communities to Lose Billions

Thousands of essential park workers were laid off this week, just before the busy spring break season.

February 18, 2025 - National Parks Traveler

Paved walking path next to canal in The Woodlands, Texas with office buildings in background.

Retro-silient?: America’s First “Eco-burb,” The Woodlands Turns 50

A master-planned community north of Houston offers lessons on green infrastructure and resilient design, but falls short of its founder’s lofty affordability and walkability goals.

February 19, 2025 - Greg Flisram

Screenshot of shade map of Buffalo, New York with legend.

Test News Post 1

This is a summary

0 seconds ago - 2TheAdvocate.com

Red 1972 Ford Pinto with black racing stripes on display with man sitting in driver's seat.

Analysis: Cybertruck Fatality Rate Far Exceeds That of Ford Pinto

The Tesla Cybertruck was recalled seven times last year.

18 minutes ago - Mother Jones

test alt text

Test News Headline 46

Test for the image on the front page.

March 5 - Cleantech blog