Equator

What would you do if you have to spend 12 hours at the airport waiting for your next flight? That would be sad, uninteresting and boring. I arrived at Quito from Esmeraldas around 12 noon and my flight to Houston will be at midnight. Thinking that I may never have the chance to visit Ecuador again, I saw to it that I can visit the Equator. So days before my flight, I contacted Happy Gringo for a half-day tour. It was quite pricey but considering that it will be hassle-free and safe, I took the offer.

Based on my research, there are two museums at the equator. My time may be limited but I must visit both. First stop was at the Mitad del Mundo (Middle Earth). This was known to be as the Equator.

The placement of the equatorial line was defined throughout a 1736 expedition called the French Geodesic Mission . While such studies would later determine the exact measure and shape of the world, astronomers involved missed the possibility of encountering the reminiscence of highly sophisticated geographical achievements made on “Equatorial” territory for hundreds of years before their arrival. more here

I thought the museum is quite polished and well-maintained. The entrance fee was 3 USD and an additional 1.5 USD if you want to enter the Planetarium. The yellow line divides the two hemispheres.

Inti Ñan Solar Museum on the other hand is more raw. It has the feel of the past which I enjoyed more. It is located a few feet away from Mitad del Mundo as is claimed to be the real equator.

Here, the red line signifies the division of the two hemispheres. Entrance fee costs 4 USD including a guided tour. Lots of activities are being held at the Equator such as coriolis effect, strength test and balancing the egg on the head of a nail.

complex equations
mystery of middle earth
explorer's compass

Also, at the Inti Nan, a traditional and mythical Ecuadorian dance was showcased. I forgot the name of the dance but the guide told me that in the past years, if the goddess chooses you to join her in a dance and you are doing it very poorly, you will be given couple of whips. Ouch. 

dance from jacklord in japan on Vimeo.

Currently there are some rumors that the real equator is somewhere near Mitad del Mundo and Intinan Solar Museum. Sooner or later it will be corrected and another real Equator will be known to mankind. But for the meantime, I got a stamp that I was at the Equator once in my life. That is that matters.

It was a quick but an educational and interesting visit. Thanks again to Happy Gringo.

Gracias Ecuador!

 /totomai 
 2016/03/13 

Photos taken with Nikon D7000, Nikon P310 
Lens used : Tamron 11-16 2.8f