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Tucson, Arizona

The world's largest collection of optical telescopes is located high above the Sonoran Desert. Kitt Peak, on the Tohono O'odham Reservation, is home to 22 optical and two radio telescopes representing dozens of astronomical research institutions. The National Optical Astronomy Observatory (NOAO), funded by the National Science Foundation, oversees site operations on Kitt Peak.

Explore the Visitor Center exhibits and gift shop to learn about astronomy. Take a tour and discover how astronomers use telescopes to unlock the mysteries of the Universe. Visit the National Solar Observatory exhibit gallery and watch scientists operate the world's largest solar telescope.

Guided Tours last approximately 1 hour and are led by trained docents who know the history and interesting facts regarding each telescope. Normally, the tours go to the following telescopes; 10am the world's largest solar telescope, 11:30 the 2.1 meter telescope and 1:30 the 4 meter Mayall Telescope (tour last 1.5 hours). Tour locations are subject to change due to maintenance and safety issues.

Docent-lead tours run daily 10 a.m., 11:30 a.m., and 1:30 p.m. Self-guided also available. Open daily. Closed Thanksgiving Day, Dec. 25th and Jan. 1st.

NIGHTLY STARGAZING: Join us for a special experience and use the Visitor Center 16-inch telescope to observe spectacular objects in the night sky. This program is limited to 20 participants and requires reservations made well in advance. This unique program runs daily and is weather-dependent. Explore your Universe!

Attractions and Upcoming Events

Tucson Botanical Gardens

This beautiful oasis in the heart of Tucson was originally the home of Bernice and Rutger Porter. Dating to the 1920

Tucson, AZ Botanical Gardens

Mission San Xavier del Bac

Acclaimed as the finest example of mission architecture in U.S. Active parish. Gift shop. Arts, crafts shop. Cafe nearby.

Tucson, AZ Historic Churches

Titan Missile Museum

The Titan Missile Museum is the only publicly accessible Titan II missile site in the nation. When you visit the Titan Missile Museum, you travel through time to stand on the front line of the Cold War. Tours are offered of this actual missile site, the only one of 54 such silos preserved as a <

Tucson, AZ Museums

Old Tucson Studios

Old Tucson Studios is where the reel West meets the real West! From western movie heroes like John Wayne to current box-office stars such as Leonardo DiCaprio, many of Hollywood's legends have walked these rugged streets, the setting for hundreds of major motion pictures. You'

Tucson, AZ Wild West

St. Augustine Cathedral

There's a long association between the name of St. Augustine and the Tucson area, dating back to the Spanish military and missionary presence in the 1700s. There were two villages with the name of San Agustín del Tucson. The first was situated at the foot of today'

Tucson, AZ Historic Churches

Things to do near Tucson, AZ

Bisbee Restoration Museum

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Kino Springs Golf Club

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Crawford Street Historic District

Merchants and professionals carried on a long tradition of a robust commercial center and their profits built the stately hom...

Davis-Monthan Afb Golf

Course Access: MilitaryHoles: 18Reserve Advance Tee Times: 3 days...

Douglas Golf Course

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