Explore Arizona's Night Sky: Observatories & Planetariums Across the State

Here’s a comprehensive list of observatories and planetariums in Arizona, starting with the renowned Lowell Observatory in Flagstaff and Kitt Peak National Observatory near Tucson, followed by other important facilities for stargazing and astronomical research.

Observatories in Arizona

1. Lowell Observatory

• Location: Flagstaff, AZ

• Overview: Founded in 1894, Lowell Observatory is one of the oldest observatories in the United States. It is famous for the discovery of Pluto in 1930 by Clyde Tombaugh. The observatory offers public tours, telescope viewing, and educational programs.

• Website: lowell.edu

2. Kitt Peak National Observatory

• Location: Tucson, AZ (on the Tohono O'odham Nation)

• Overview: Kitt Peak is home to the largest collection of optical and radio telescopes in the world. It is a major center for astronomical research and offers public tours, night programs, and stargazing events.

• Website: www.noao.edu/kpno/

3. Mt. Graham International Observatory

• Location: Safford, AZ

• Overview: Located on Mount Graham, this observatory is home to the Large Binocular Telescope, one of the most powerful optical telescopes in the world. The observatory is used for a variety of research purposes, including studying deep space objects.

• Website: mgio.arizona.edu

4. Whipple Observatory

• Location: Amado, AZ (south of Tucson)

• Overview: Part of the Smithsonian Institution, the Fred Lawrence Whipple Observatory focuses on gamma-ray astronomy and optical astronomy. The observatory offers tours and educational programs.

• Website: flwo.cfa.harvard.edu

5. Discovery Channel Telescope

• Location: Near Happy Jack, AZ

• Overview: Operated by Lowell Observatory in partnership with the Discovery Channel, this modern facility is used for a wide range of astronomical research and is not generally open to the public, but Lowell Observatory offers insights into its operations.

• Website: lowell.edu/research/telescopes-facilities/discovery-channel-telescope

6. Vatican Advanced Technology Telescope (VATT)

• Location: Mt. Graham, AZ

• Overview: The VATT is operated by the Vatican Observatory and is part of the Mt. Graham International Observatory. It focuses on various areas of astronomical research, and tours are available through the observatory.

• Website: www.vaticanobservatory.org

Planetariums in Arizona

1. Flandrau Science Center & Planetarium

•  Location: Tucson, AZ (University of Arizona)

•  Overview: Flandrau offers immersive planetarium shows, hands-on science exhibits, and a range of educational programs focused on astronomy and other sciences.

•  Website: flandrau.org

2. Dorrance Planetarium

• Location: Phoenix, AZ (Arizona Science Center)

• Overview: One of the largest planetariums in the United States, the Dorrance Planetarium offers state-of-the-art immersive shows about the cosmos and science-related topics.

• Website: www.azscience.org/planetarium

  
  

3. East Valley Astronomy Club (EVAC) - Superstition Mountain Campus

• Location: Apache Junction, AZ

• Overview: While primarily an astronomy club, EVAC hosts star parties and public viewing events at their observatory, providing opportunities for stargazing and learning about the cosmos.

• Website: evaconline.org

4. Parker Solar System Walk

• Location: Parker, AZ

•  Overview: An educational walking tour that replicates the solar system along a scaled-down path, providing a unique way to learn about the planets.

•  Website: Information typically available via local tourism resources.

These observatories and planetariums provide a wide range of opportunities for both professional astronomers and the general public to explore the wonders of the universe. From research facilities housing some of the world's most advanced telescopes to planetariums offering immersive educational experiences, Arizona is a key destination for stargazing and astronomical education.