Event Archives
Since reopening in 2006 after the renovation and expansion project, the Observatory has hosted hundreds of public events and activities. Whether for eclipses, notable spacecraft anniversaries, or special speakers, the events offered the chance for the public to experience, learn, or be inspired. Sometimes all at the same time!
All past events, as well as upcoming events, can be viewed on our Calendar.
Notable Observatory Events
Comet ISON, Autumn 2013
Comet ISON (C/2012 S1) was discovered on 21 September 2012 by Vitali Nevski and Artyom Novichonok while collecting data for the International Scientific Optical Network (ISON).
Seeing The Perseid Meteor Shower In Southern California, August 2013
The annual Perseid meteor shower will reach its peak between 6:15 a.m. and 6:45 p.m., P.D.T., on Monday, August 12, 2013.
Observatory hosts “SATURN WAVE” Event
Several hundred people gathered on the lawn at Griffith Observatory on July 19, 2013, to wave at Saturn as NASA's Cassini spacecraft took a photograph of the ringed planet with Earth in the background.
Celebrating Dr. Sally Ride: First American Woman in Space
On June 18, 2013 the Observatory hosted a panel discussion commemorating the 30th anniversary of Sally Ride's flight into space aboard Space Shuttle Challenger, making her the first American woman in space.
Lecture and Book Signing by Renowned Space Artist Michael Carroll
On Sunday, March 10, 2013, Mr. Carroll presented a lecture and signed copies of his book, "Drifting on Alien Winds".
Comet PANSTARRS, March 2013
Comet PANSTARRS was observed from Griffith Observatory through telescopes and binoculars through most of March 2013.
It’s Not The End Of The World!
On Friday, December 21, 2012, Griffith Observatory hosted special activities to mark the end of Baktun-13 on the Maya calendar and NOT the end of the world.
Apollo 17: The End of an Era
Griffith Observatory Celebrates the 40th Anniversary of NASA’s Apollo 17 Mission
Endeavour Comes to Los Angeles
On Friday, September 21, 2012, Griffith Observatory hosted thousands of people for multiple flyovers by the space shuttle Endeavour as it passed over Los Angeles landmarks prior to landing at LAX.