Six Flags and Griffith Observatory

Day 8: February 21, 2009

Six flags definitely has the most number of thrilling rides. The first ride Goliath had a thrill rating max and there couldn't have been a better start to our adventure. Most pictures still in others' camera and once i obtain them I will retrace each ride one by one. Below was taken as we lined up for an hour for the undisputed awesome-est ride-X2. The green carrriage is NOT it.

Departing unwillingly from six flags we went to Griffith Observatory at Griffith Park. From here, we overlooked Hollywood and most of LA City. The Hollywood sign on the neighbouring hill. Somewhere nearby was Greek theatre but time constraints meant knowing it was nearby without visiting it was good enough for me. The sight of the observatory building itself was spectacular. The white marbles, the grassy patches and the closeness to the sky made me feel on top of the world.

At the centre hall was this pendulum setup proving that Earth is moving. The planetarium show - Centred in the Universe. Really pretty but I think the other 2 shows (Water is Life,  The Telescope Changed Everything) would have been even more interesting.

And the Zeiss 12 Inch refracting telescope. Didn't manage to use it though because the cloud cover hid the stars that night.

The history of the universe began with the Big Bang. I'm glad to be taking exploring the universe this semester. The physics can be hard to swallow at times but the subject matter to which I learnt how it applies makes it worth it.

Many other interesting displays about the galaxy and nearby stars, the milky way, meteorite showers, planets of the solar system, cosmic rays, recent astronomy news and others.

A fulfilling last day. Heading back to the hotel at night was always exciting. Fortunately, the Super 8 Inn we stayed was only 2,3 blocks from the metro station. I even dared to walk around the corner to the pharmacy to buy sweets; accompanied by equally, if not braver friends.