The Griffith Observatory is celebrating its 90th anniversary with a special event on Wednesday. Festivities include exhibits, sky viewing, and a rare lunar event called the major standstill southern moonrise, managers announced.
The celebration kicks off just before noon; admission is free.
Since opening its doors in 1935, more than 7 million people have peered through the observatory’s iconic telescope — more than any other telescope on Earth.
Director Ed Krupp says the goal has always been to make astronomy accessible and free to the public.
This Wednesday’s event is part of a year-long celebration honoring the observatory’s legacy of science education and public outreach. The 90th anniversary campaign features star parties, special lectures, new programming, and a community storytelling project to highlight the observatory’s impact over the decades.
Visitors throughout the year will also get a chance to take part in commemorative exhibits and experiences designed to inspire future generations of sky watchers.
From training pilots in celestial navigation during World War II to starring in iconic films and undergoing a $93 million renovation, Griffith Observatory has been a cultural and scientific landmark for nine decades.
