Tucson Observatories

Kitt Peak National Observatory (NOAO) The world’s largest collection of optical telescopes is located high above the Sonoran Desert at Kitt Peak, on the Tohono O’odham Reservation. It is home to twenty-two optical and two radio telescopes representing dozens of astronomical research institutions. T he 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.

The Flandrau Science Center The mission of Flandrau Science Center is to provide visitors and r esidents of southern Arizona communities with a unique and stimulating approach to exploring science. The Center features hands-on science exhibits, a star theater, laser light shows, a mineral museum, a public observatory, a science store and education programs for children.

Columbia University's BIOSPHERE 2 Center(B2C), considered southern Arizona's top 5 "Must See" attractions, is located outside of Tucson tucked away into the hills of the high Sonoran desert with the Catalina's Mt. Lemmon resting nearby. An icon, Biosphere 2 is the world's largest, glass-enclosed active environmental laboratory -- "Exploring Earth's Future."
The site includes multi-media exhibits, ocean-viewing gallery, lush rainforest, self-guided and guided "Under the Glass" group tours for additional fee. B2C offers a restaurant, shops, a 30-room hotel with balconied suites and a conference center. With glorious views and a spectacular night sky, B2C provides a wide-range of active, public outreach programs, including evening stargazing presentations utilizing the Biosphere 2 Observatory's new 24" telescope, plus a selection of smaller telescopes. Weekday and Weekend special packages are available both in- and off-season.

Kartchner Caverns