Mt. Lemmon SkyCenter: DayTours: – Uncover the Secrets of Our Mountaintop Observatory

About this event

Enjoy a captivating experience at the heart of our mountaintop observatory with our guided daytime tours! Discover the rich history of our unique site, from its origins as a Cold War early warning radar station to its current role as a leading astronomical research facility.

Our knowledgeable guides will lead you on a 90-minute walking tour, highlighting our impressive state-of-the-art facilities, including the SkyCenter’s Schulman 32-inch and Phillips 24-inch telescopes. You’ll also have the unique opportunity to learn about other fascinating programs operating on our site, including the Catalina Sky Survey, where astronomers search for potentially hazardous near-Earth asteroids. Weather permitting, our guides will give you the opportunity to gaze at the sun through our specialized solar telescopes and witness its dynamic surface in a safe and unforgettable way.

What to Expect on Your Daytime Tour:

• Duration: 90 minutes

• Capacity: Up to 14 participants.

• This is a walking tour at 9200 ft elevation.

Activities

• Guided tour of the observatory grounds and select facilities.

• Learn about the history and current research conducted at the Mt. Lemmon SkyCenter.

• Up-close views of various telescopes, including the Schulman 32-inch and Phillips 24-inch.

• Safe solar observing through our dedicated solar telescopes (weather permitting).

• Enjoy breathtaking views of the surrounding mountain landscape.

• Guided tour of the observatory grounds and facilities.

• Learn about the history and current research conducted at the SkyCenter.

• Up-close views of various telescopes, including the Schulman 32-inch and Phillips 24-inch.

• Safe solar observing through a dedicated telescope (weather permitting).

• Enjoy breathtaking views of the surrounding mountain landscape.

Ages 7+

From The University of Arizona Mt. Lemmon SkyCenter