Contemplating the size of the universe is definitely akin to a religious experience. I remember once when I was a teenager, falling asleep and either meditating or dreaming that I was floating out near the planet Jupiter. I experienced a tangible sense of the size of it which staggered and awed me in the strongest, indescribable way. Something about it is profoundly comforting as well as frightening, although I don't quite know why.
Also, see this: http://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/co...PEG%29.jpg
Also, see this: http://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/co...PEG%29.jpg
Dr Johnson rumbles with the RawGod. And lives to regret it.