Kitt Peak National Observatory

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(520) 977-0003

Kitt Peak National Observatory

The city of Tucson is known as the "Astronomy Capital of the World." Kitt Peak National Observatory houses the largest collection of astronomical telescopes anywhere, including the largest solar telescope.

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 twenty-two 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 Kitt Peak Visitor Center and learn the history of optical astronomy. Take a tour and learn 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.

Kitt Peak has the largest collection of optical telescopes in the world, and they allow dogs on various telescope tours including a tour of their largest, the 4 meter telescope. Pick up a map at the Visitor Center and take the self-guided tour between 9AM and 4PM. Admission and tours are free, but donations at the Visitor Center are welcome. Well-behaved leashed dogs are welcome inside the telescope buildings and the Visitor Center.

The summit of Kitt Peak is at an elevation of 6,875 feet. The observatory is located 56 miles southwest of Tucson via State Route 86, then take Hwy 386 up to the mountain. Temperatures on Kitt Peak are 10 to 20 degrees cooler than in Tucson, so be prepared with warm clothing.

Driving directions to 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).

For more information: 520-318-8732 or www.noao.edu/kpno