DayTours: Uncover the Secrets of Our Mountaintop Observatory
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.
Activities
- 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.
Know Before You Go:
- Accessibility: The tour involves walking on paved paths with some uphill and downhill sections. Please wear comfortable, flat closed-toe shoes.
- What to bring: Sunscreen, hat, sunglasses, water bottle, snack.
- Weather: This tour is weather dependent.
Age Appropriateness:
Recommended for ages 7 and up due to the outdoor setting and program length.
Pricing:
Adults: $10 per person
Youth (7-17): $5 per person
Instructions of getting to the Mt. Lemmon SkyCenter
- Address: 9800 Ski Run Road.
- Google Maps Link: Upper Forest Gate (32.440668, -110.786014)
- Drive Time: Allow approximately 90-120 minutes from central Tucson, as mountain driving requires extra care and time.
- Directions and Meeting Location: Use Catalina Hwy to reach the Mt. Lemmon SkyCenter.
- Maps and Directions
Policy
- No-Shows & Late Cancellations: Unfortunately, we cannot offer refunds or rescheduling for no-shows or cancellations made less than the specified notice periods.
- Individual Tickets: For individual daytime tour tickets, rescheduling is available with at least 48 hours' notice prior to the scheduled tour.
For large groups please contact us.
Frequently Asked Questions
Yes, you are welcome to bring your own snacks and drinks, especially water.
Yes, restrooms are available inside one of our telescope domes as well as at our Learning Center.
Yes, non-commercial photography is allowed and encouraged, but please be respectful of other guests and staff.
While solar viewing may not be possible on cloudy days, the tour will still proceed, focusing on the history, facilities, and research at the SkyCenter.
Yes, please contact us in advance to discuss your needs, and we'll do our best to accommodate you.