Field Trip to Griffith Observatory Report
My attraction to visit Griffith observatory was due to its scientific aspects. Besides, it is one of the most iconic landmarks in Los Angeles. Initially, I had heard stories about how movies were shot in the area because of its spectacular location, but I never had the opportunity of visiting it in person. On February 5th, 2020, I decided to visit the famous Observatory to have personal experience and learn. I learned that the Pacific Ocean lies southwest while Hollywood is located to the south of the Observatory. The fascinating things I saw were the night view and the sunset. Indeed, the area had the best illustration of some scientific facts learned in class. Besides, the weather in the city was perfectly coupled with lights that were twinkling below. The trip was a perfect opportunity to understand the lessons learned in class practically. The most dominant concepts I learned were the scientific facts revolving around telescopes and lights.
The Observatory was categorized into five different sections, namely; the Gunther Depths of Space hall, the Cosmic connection, the W.M. Keck Foundation, and Edge of Space Mexannine. Entering the room ushered me into different amazing exhibits. The technology was heavily invested in the Observatory such that I could see the moon, the son, and the sky. It is through that trip that I realized that images of the sun could be projected with the help of coelostats. Each section gave me a different experience as I continued to explore. At the Gunther Depth of space, I had a chance of encountering the most beautiful space explorations. I also came across some of the fascinating astronomical instruments at the edge of space. Here, I was shown samples of the universe that had been acquired through the process of space exploration.
I also had the opportunity to learn about the cosmic connection. Cosmic rays are present in the daily activities of human beings. These rays come from the sun, black holes, and stellar explosions. Their swift movement with speed close to that of light makes them impossible to view with naked eyes. The rays originate high in the atmosphere after breaking air molecules and causing a downpour of atomic and sub-atomic particles to the earth. Measuring the tiny parts as they rush past humans require the use of special devices. At Griffiths, I was introduced to a cloud chamber. I had a golden chance of being taught the various parts of the equipment and how it operates. I was showed the alcohol vapour that requires to be supersaturated to condense whenever a charged particle is detected. When condensation happens, tracks of the long thin cloud is observed.
Spark chamber also worked similarly. The only difference is that it operates on Helium and Neon gases. Energy particles are mainly detected when their particles collide with the Neon and Helium gases hence causing a loss of electrons from their atoms. Electrification of the high voltage plate is triggered if a particle hits three sensors successfully. This electrification creates an observable spark in the ionized path of the intersection. At the W.M Keck foundation, I was introduced into the intersection of mythology and science, earth and sky. I was also taught about the man who had a vision that made Observatory to exist. Generally, the experience at Griffiths Observatory was as satisfying as it was educative. I enjoyed discovering new things and understanding the practical aspect of classwork.