Kitt Peak National Observatory

EXPLORE YOUR UNIVERSE! 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 24 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. 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 Public Telescopes telescope to observe spectacular objects in the night sky. This program is limited to 46 participants and requires reservations made well in advance. Group numbers can go to 100. This unique program runs nightly. Explore your Universe Right Here on Earth! DIRECTIONS: Kitt Peak is 56 miles southwest of Tucson via State Route 86 on the Tohono O'odham Reservation. Allow 90 minutes of drive time from Tucson. Take I-10 to I-19 South. Less than 1 mile is Ajo Way/Hwy 86 (Exit 99). Take this exit West (right). Proceed past Ryan Airfield and Three Points. Continue until Junction 386 (Kitt Peak turnoff). Turn left onto 386. The Kitt Peak Visitor Center is located at the summit (12 miles). Paved and maintained road.

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