Mt. Lemmon SkyCenter Observatory, Mount Lemmon

This is a review of the SkyNights public outreach program at the observatory: overall an enjoyable and interesting experience, which I think could be improved with some small changes. The light dinner (bagged cold sandwiches with chips and cookies) seemed unnecessary, and perhaps the tickets could be made cheaper (and thus, more accessible) by eliminating this step. I would also prefer the group sizes to be capped at 15 or lower, instead of 20, since some people are unbearably slow and there ended up being a lot of sitting and waiting inside of the crowded observatory. Still, the student hosts did a great job explaining the science and helping to teach the public. Tips for tourists: 1) Leave from Tucson with plenty of extra time. The drive up Mount Lemon is beautiful, and there are lots of scenic places to stop for pictures. 2) It get super cold at night on top of a mountain in the desert. If you're from out of town, you probably didn't pack your winter clothes. No problem, just stop by any of the many Goodwill thrift stores around town and buy some cheap coats, and donate them back before you leave. 3) The coolest things to see through the observatory's telescope are definitely the moon and any of the planets. Unfortunately, none of these were visible in the night sky when we visited. You may want to do some googling ahead of time and plan your visit around when these astronomical objects will be available.

Tour and stargazing was incredible — the students who led our session were delightful and very knowledgeable. Learned a lot and got the best view of our universe I’ve ever had! Definitely worth a visit when you’re in Tucson 🌌

We had a fantastic time while learning so many things about our Universe. We were able to see a star during the day time. Then we saw planets and constipation at night; Jupiter and its moons the blue planet of neptune. Orians belt, new stars old star. Wil the guide was amazing with his knowledge and his way of explaining the universe so we could understand it was very cool. He never treats you like you are stupid, he just finds a way to help you understand how it works without spotting all the math to you. Great video, sunset, telescopes, just a great time. We will be going back. I had no idea we had so many telescopes up there and ones that save out lives. Thanks Wil fir a good time.

If you want to take a nice scenic drive... Or want to catch a little snow in the winter months ..This is a drive you should take. A must do if you have out of state visitors. 🙌🏾

Tour and stargazing was great. Will and Vanessa led our session were very enthusiastic and knowledgeable. I enjoyed the classroom tour of the solar system as much as the amazing views of galaxies and nebulae through the 32” telescope. It was a long program, and plenty cold up there so be prepared! I highly recommend a visit when you’re in Tucson 🌌