Susan Nimoy pledges $1M for Griffith Observatory renovation and expansion

Los Angeles is set to benefit from a significant boost to one of its cultural landmarks, the Griffith Observatory, thanks to a generous $1 million donation from Susan Bay Nimoy and her late husband, Leonard Nimoy. During a recent city council meeting, Susan Nimoy shared the couple's motivation for their contribution, highlighting the Observatory's urgent need for renovation and expansion after 66 years without a major capital campaign.

The Griffith Observatory, built in 1935, has seen its visitor numbers soar from a population of 1.4 million in Los Angeles at the time of its opening to over 8 million today. Currently, the Observatory welcomes approximately 2 million visitors each year, including 50,000 school children, underscoring the pressing need for upgrades to accommodate this growing audience.

Nimoy emphasized the importance of the Observatory as a cultural icon and a vital educational resource, drawing parallels to the successful renovations of similar institutions, such as the Rose Planetarium in New York City. The donation aims to enhance the visitor experience and ensure that the Observatory can continue to inspire future generations.

The city council's acknowledgment of this significant contribution marks a pivotal moment for the Griffith Observatory, setting the stage for its much-needed transformation. As plans for the renovation and expansion move forward, the Nimoys' legacy will undoubtedly play a crucial role in shaping the future of this beloved landmark.