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You are invited to a Star Party hosted by the Mt. Wilson Observers Association. Come enjoy an evening of astronomy using high-powered telescopes observing Saturn, Jupiter, and the craters of the Moon. First, enjoy the bright half-lit moon with its spectacular craters, visible even before sunset. As the sky darkens, Saturn will be visible, magnified 100 or more times. After 8:00 p.m., brilliant Jupiter will  rise into view. Finally, expect to see an orbiting Earth satellite come over at exactly 8:33 p.m.. Learn all about the night sky from volunteer amateur astronomers. This star party will be held on Friday, May 5, from 7:30-10:00 p.m. in the parking lot of the Christian Science Church, 7855 Alverstone Ave. at 79th St., Westchester, California. This event will be held dependent on good observing conditions, and if it is rainy or cloudy, it will be rescheduled for Friday, May 12th. For questions, please call Bob Eklund, at (310) 216-5947.

The 2006 ISDC is a great opportunity to not only learn about the latest developments in space exploration, but to do some exploring of your own in Southern California. There is no shortage of destinations and activities for visitors, from world-class museums and attractions to legendary restaurants, Hollywood tours and shopping on Rodeo Drive. Visit the Los Angeles Convention and Tourism Bureau to learn about all the opportunities available for visitors to Los Angeles.

Here is a list of major attractions, sporting venues and other exciting places within quick driving distance of the Sheraton Gateway Hotel.

Quick Area Guide

Theme Parks and Attractions:

  • Griffith Observatory -- 13 Miles     > > > 
  • Hollywood Park Race Track -- 3 Miles 
  • South Bay Galleria -- 7 Miles
  • Watts Tower -- 8.5 Miles
  • Pacific Ocean Park -- 10 Miles
  • Santa Monica Pier -- 10 Miles 
  • Hollywood Walk of Fame -- 15 Miles
  • Mann's Chinese Theatre -- 15 Miles  
  • Los Angeles Convention Center -- 17 Miles
  • Los Angeles Zoo -- 23 Miles
  • Universal Studios Hollywood -- 25 Miles
  • Disneyland -- 34 Miles     > > > 
  • Catalina Island -- 34.5 Miles

Museums:

  • J. Paul Getty Museum -- 16 Miles
  • California Science Center -- 17 Miles     > > > 
  • Long Beach Aquarium of the Pacific -- 21 Miles

Nearby Cities:

  • Santa Monica -- 6 Miles
  • Downtown Los Angeles -- 14 Miles     > > > 
  • Beverly Hills -- 16 Miles
  • San Diego -- 125 miles

Stadiums and Arenas:

  • Dodger Stadium -- 15 Miles
  • Staples Center (LA Lakers & LA Kings) -- 15 Miles
  • Rose Bowl -- 25 Miles

Beaches:

  • Manhattan Beach -- 5 Miles
  • Venice Beach -- 5 miles
  • Santa Monica Beach and Pier -- 10 Miles     > > >

World Class Golf:

  • Westchester Golf Course -- 3 Miles
  • Rancho Park Golf Course -- 10 Miles
  • Industry Hills Golf Course -- 36 Miles

Shopping:

  • Manhattan Village Mall -- 4 Miles
  • Melrose Avenue -- 22 Miles
  • Rodeo Drive -- 12 Miles     > > >
  • Century City Marketplace -- 11 Miles
  • Universal CityWalk -- 26 Miles
  • Downtown Disney -- 34 Miles
  • South Coast Plaza -- 38 Miles