Visit the SkyCenter

Mt. Lemmon SkyCenter is home to Steward Observatory's public astronomy outreach program and is located high above the city of Tucson, Arizona.  Our exceptional science programs take place on the summit of a Sky Island, at an elevation of 9,157 feet.   Operating under permit from the U.S. Forest Service, we proudly provide access to the Schulman 32" inch and the Phillips 24" telescopes.  These are TWO of the largest telescopes available for public outreach in the Southwest.  

All of our programs have capacity limits and are available by advance reservation only. Note that we often sell out, especially around holidays and in the spring months, where programs fill 1 - 3 weeks in advance.

*Please note: During October through April, and especially during November, December, January and February, the weather will be very cold during your experience. Please be prepared with layers, heavy coats, boots, and other items to keep you warm during your visit. 

Please call (520-626-8122) or email us (mtlemmon.skycenter@gmail.com) with any questions regarding disability-related access, or to request disability-related accommodation.  Please understand that our program operates at a high altitude mountain location and that in order for us to provide some accommodations (e.g. sign language interpreting, wheelchair accessible transportation in the winter) we require advance notice. 

Office hours are Tues-Sun 12 PM - 5 PM MST  (520) 626-8122 mtlemmon.skycenter@gmail.com

  • SkyNights StarGazing Program: Our premier evening StarGazing program is available, by reservation, on most Wednesday, Thursday, Friday, Saturday, and Sunday evenings. This five-hour program starts two hours prior to sunset and includes an astronomy lecture, a light dinner, sunset, and guided navigation of the night sky.  We'll start with binoculars and end with views through the Schulman 32-inch and/or the Phillips 24-inch telescopes.  Views may include our spectacular neighboring planets, distant galaxies and nebula, star clusters, and other celestial wonders.  Due to the outdoor nature and length of the program, it is generally appropriate for ages 7 and up.  Prices are indicated on the reservation calendar for each event.
  • By reservation only - Day Tours and Solar Viewings:  Offered for groups of 20 or more by special arrangement, these walking tours are 1 1/2 to 2 hours in length.  We will bring you to the observatory and talk about the beginnings of the Mt. Lemmon Observatories, the SkyCenter programs, and our future as both a research facility and a public outreach center.  We will introduce you to the work of the Catalina Sky Survey, discuss near-earth objects, and explain the purpose and the people behind each of the 9 summit telescopes.  Weather permitting, you will also view the Sun through dedicated solar telescopes.  This tour is $15 per person and requires a minimum of 20 participants.  For groups of less than 20 people, we can provide this tour for a flat rate of $300.  
  • Picnic Day Tours:  Same as above but we'll pack you a lunch!  The day tour with lunch is $25 per person and requires a minimum of 20 participants.  For groups of less than 20 people, we can provide this tour for a flat rate of $500.  
  • Astronomer Nights, Viewing Only:  From the novice to the professional, this is an outstanding opportunity to spend the entire evening with a professional guide using our telescopes to peer at a multitude of celestial objects.  This program is $1500 per night for up to 4 people and includes lodging, participation in our regular SkyNights program (optional), and snacks throughout the evening.
  • Astronomer Nights w/ CCD Photography: For experienced astronomers with working knowledge of CCD photography.  Pursue a more detailed analysis of astronomical data using our telescopes, CCD cameras, and other resources.  This program is $1500 per night for up to 2 people and includes lodging, participation in our regular SkyNights program (optional), and snacks throughout the evening.
  • Private and semi-private Astronomy Events: Can be arranged by contacting our office 2 – 3 months prior to the desired date.  
  • Special programs: (meteor showers, eclipses, Messier Marathon,  etc.) Are available throughout the year and sell out quickly - keep one eye on the sky and one on our calendar!