How to Visit Kitt Peak National Observatory

Posted by Anonymous , 9/5/2007 Tags:VisitKittPeakNationalObservatory
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How to Visit Kitt Peak National Observatory

Introduction

Kitt Peak National Observatory has the world's largest collection of optical telescopes, and also boasts nighttime telescopes, too. It is part of the National Optical Astronomy Observatory that collects data for daytime and nighttime studies of the sun. Located west of Tucson, Arizona, Kitt Peak is a fascinating place to visit.

Instructions

Difficulty: Easy

Steps

1

Step One

Drive 56 miles southwest of Tucson along state route 86 through the Tohono O'odham reservation. The 90-minute drive features beautiful Sonoran desert scenery. Stop and take pictures along the way if you love natural beauty.
2

Step Two

Dress accordingly and wear comfortable walking shoes. Kitt Peak's elevation is close to 7,000 feet, and walking outside from telescope to telescope is involved. Some telescopes are a half mile away from the visitor center where tours start. Also remember that it is usually 20 degrees cooler up in the mountains.
3

Step Three

Pack a picnic lunch, as there are no food services offered at Kitt Peak or on the mountain. However, snacks and beverages are sold in the visitor center.
4

Step Four

Visit any day except Thanksgiving, Christmas and New Year's Day.
5

Step Five

Tour the telescopes on your own with a walking tour map, or for a small fee take the guided 1-hour tour of each telescope.
6

Step Six

Sign up for the nightly observing program. Except during the rainy season--mid-July to the first of September--this program is open to a few participants every night. Reserve this special and rare opportunity by calling (520) 318-8726.

Tips & Warnings

  • Note that some of the telescopes are on steep sloping hills, which may cause problems if you have respiratory difficulties.

Overall Things You'll Need

  • Picnic lunch
  • Walking shoes
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