PALOMAR

Palomar Observatory is considered one of the most influential advances in modern times. The 200 inch Hale Telescope, named after the visionary scientist and creator Dr. Hale, was the leader in the scientific world. 

Another remarkable landmark in Southern California, also sitting on the edge of the Anza-Borrego Desert was Palomar Observatory. Sitting at 5000 feet above sea level I started the ascend not realizing the enormity of its mass. That was the first emotion I had. It's huge. I assume deep space telescopes are big but to actually stand next to it was amazing.

I climbed what seemed like a hundred stairs then entered in total silence as did other people. It had a cathedral quality to it and I felt intimidated in it's presence. I spoke quietly as did other people. I stood in awe, almost in a spiritual silence. 

I stood before one of mankinds greatest achievements. An instrument that's sole purpose was to reach into the heavens. To learn I thought, it was created to reach into space and learn what's out there. 

I felt a spiritual connection. My personal journey on this adventure was to learn, if not about others than about myself. Just like Palomar I am reaching out. 

Standing in awe.

Intimidating !

Looking up.

A worker at the base of telescope.

Inside the brass dome housing.

Lens

Wheels the size of locomotive's move the telescope on turrets.

The base and lens were to big to get in one picture.