The Cosmic Connection

The Cosmic Connection, the corridor linking the historic building above with the new Gunther Depths of Space below, provides the transition from ground-based and more familiar astronomy to a new realm of cosmic perspective. The main element in this passageway is a 150-foot timeline of the universe whimsically composed of celestial-themed jewelry in the glass case that lines the corridor. At the top end of the corridor, near the Guide Station, visitors pass the Big Bang. At the bottom end, near the Edge of Space mezzanine, all of human history occupies a fraction of an inch. In between, large images illustrate key moments in the evolution of the universe and our cultural connection to the cosmos.

Wormhole

The new Wormhole stairway is the shortcut to the Gunther Depths of Space exhibit gallery. It passes directly under the Foucault Pendulum in the W.M. Keck Foundation Central Rotunda. It is the only significant area directly under the existing building to be excavated during the renovation and expansion project.

Center Of Gravity

The Center of Gravity is the new ?reception? area and Guide Station at the base of Gravity's Staircase, the new main stairway from the existing building (main level). From the Center of Gravity visitors can proceed down either the Cosmic Connection walkway or the Wormhole stairway to the Gunther Depths of Space exhibit gallery or into the new administrative office areas. The Center of Gravity is also where the Observatory recognizes the generous donors to the renovation and expansion project.