Shawn Levy's "Night at the Museum: Battle of the Smithsonian" took over the North American box office lead Friday with an estimated $15.3 million in ticket sales.

Starring Ben Stiller, the film scored $3 million more on opening day than its 2006 predecessor "Night at the Museum." The sequel follows main character Larry Daley as he heads to the Smithsonian to rescue his pals from the hands of a ruthless Egyptian leader (Hank Azaria).

Thursday's box office winner "Terminator Salvation" slipped to No. 2 Friday, taking home $14.8 million for an impressive two-day total gross of $28.2 million. Directed by McG, the action spectacle stars Christian Bale as John Connor, who leads the resistance in the war against the machines.

At No. 3, Ron Howard's "Angels & Demons" pulled in $6 million, reaching a domestic total of $66.1 million. Following in fourth place with $5.7 million was J.J. Abrams' "Star Trek" reboot, which brought its cume to $167.4 million.

Meanwhile, The Wayans brothers' "Dance Flick" debuted at No. 5, earning $3.9 million. Films falling victim to the spoof comedy include "Step Up" and "Save the Last Dance."

Source: Box Office Mojo (www.boxofficemojo.com)