Mt. Lemmon SkyCenter Observatory recently ranked No. 1 space observatory to visit in U.S.

The Mt. Lemmon SkyCenter Observatory was recently named the No. 1 space observatory to visit in the United States by the Space Tourism Guide.

“Operated by the University of Arizona, the SkyCenter is a real gem for astronomy enthusiasts,” wrote Valerie Stimac, founder and editor of Space Tourism Guide. “It’s home to two of the largest telescopes available to the public anywhere in the Southwest: the Schulman 32″ and the Phillips 24″ telescopes – and during the five-hour SkyNights programs they offer, you’ll have plenty of time to learn about and gaze through both.”

The Mt. Lemmon SkyCenter seeks to strengthen interest in science and astronomy through premium educational and public outreach experiences. Part of Steward Observatory and the Department of Astronomy in the UArizona College of Science, the SkyCenter operates under permit from the U.S. Forest Service.

The SkyCenter is an exceptional science learning facility located at Steward Observatory's "sky island" observing site just north of Tucson, Arizona. The site is also home to eight additional telescopes used by various institutional partners for optical and infrared astronomy research. The SkyCenter builds upon the uniqueness of the 9,157 feet summit of Mt. Lemmon and on the extensive knowledge base at the University of Arizona to deliver educational adventures.

The SkyNights program is a nighttime observing program that provides the opportunity to peer beyond the blue horizons of our southwestern skies and explore astronomical wonders that have fascinated us from time immemorial. Star charts, binoculars and the superb 32-inch Schulman telescope are just some of the resources of this program. This telescope is the largest public dedicated telescope in the Southwest. The SkyNights experience is offered most nights throughout the year.

AstronomerNights provides exclusive and extended access to the 32-inch Schulman telescope like a professional astronomer. This unique experience allows one or two visitors to observe with an astronomer/guide, be lodged in on-site dorms, acquire high-quality images of objects of their choice, and have images processed and subsequently made available to them. Groups can also be accommodated with adjustments in program and fees. There are no prerequisites on experience or education; just a curiosity about our universe and an interest in exploring it first-hand.

UArizona’s Sky School provides high-quality STEM education for K-12 students in Tucson and other cities. Each year, more than 500 students investigate the unique ecology of Mt. Lemmon using the tools and methods of practicing scientists and researchers.

To learn more about the Mt. Lemmon SkyCenter Observatory and all of its programs, click here.