Science
Kitt Peak
Nightly Observing
With its wide-open spaces and clear skies, Southern Arizona is known as one of the best places to stargaze. Travel to the top of a scenic 7,000-ft. mountain arriving just before sunset to see some amazing heavenly views from Kitt Peak National Observatory-the world's largest working astronomical observatory.
On this celestial journey, your group will see stars, as well as vivid constellations and glowing planets, through the lenses of the visitor center telescopes. Star charts, binoculars, and other helpful materials are available to help identify all you see. This program is extremely popular and often books months in advance. Make reservations early. The tour is weather-dependent. In the event of a cloudy night, the program will still be held, with hands-on activities.
- Attendees: 10 min./100 max.
- Length: 3.5 hours
- Availability: Program not available July 15-Sept. 1 due to unpredictable weather. Deposit: 20% of total group price due upon making reservation. If the group cancels less than 24 hours prior, the deposit will not be refunded. Balance due on day of tour.
- Sample Menu: Catered dinner: Prices and menus vary, from barbecue settings to elegant sit-downs. Box dinner: Turkey or vegetarian sandwich, bottled water, fruit, chips, and cookie.
- Contact: Rich Fedele
Kitt Peak National Observatory
(520) 318-8163
rfedele@noao.edu, www.noao.edu/outreach/kpoutreach.html
Pima Air & Space Museum
Aerospace Maintenance and Regeneration Tour
The 309th Aerospace Maintenance and Regeneration Group (AMARG), also known as the Boneyard, is an Air Force collection of more than 4,000 post-World-War-II military aircraft. AMARG provides critical aerospace maintenance and regeneration capabilities for Joint and Allied/Coalition warfighters in support of global operations and agile combat support for a wide range of military operations. The facility is located adjacent to the Pima Air & Space Museum at Davis-Monthan Air Force Base. The fully narrated tour can be conducted on your coach or one provided by the museum.
- Attendees: 10 minimum
- Length: 1.5 hours
- Contact: John Lundquist
Pima Air & Space Museum
6000 E. Valencia Rd., Tucson, AZ 85706
(520) 618-4800, www.pimaair.org
Kitt Peak Observatory
Pima Air and Space Museum
More Science Ideas
SkyCenter Observatory
The Mt. Lemmon Observatory allows you to view and understand the night sky like never before. An expert astronomer guides you on a SkyNights adventure through the mysteries of the cosmos and teaches skills needed to explore the universe on your own. (520) 626-8122.
Steward Observatory Mirror Lab
A behind-the-scenes look into cutting-edge technology involved in making giant telescope mirrors. For Information and reservations: (520) 626-8792.
Ft. Huachuca, Arizona
The fort, located in the Huachuca Mountains, highlights the fascinating history of the U.S. Army, including the African-American cavalry known as the Buffalo Soldiers. Call the Sierra Vista Convention & Visitors Bureau at (520) 417-6960.
Fort Lowell Museum
Chronicles the fascinating history of Fort Lowell, which was the regimental headquarters of the Sixth U.S. Cavalry. Ft. Lowell Park, east Tucson. (520) 885-3832.
Titan Missile Museum
The only publicly accessible Titan II missile site in the nation. During the tour, participants get to experience a simulated missile launch. (520) 625-7736.
