One of the earliest telescopes on Kitt Peak!

Duration

60 Minutes

Prices displayed do not include fees

About

Kitt Peak is very much alive during the daylight hours. During the summer, the mountain is a great place to beat the desert heat.

This docent-led tour visits the historic 2.1-meter Telescope.

One of the earliest telescopes on Kitt Peak, and used by Vera Rubin to conduct landmark observations that established the existence of dark matter.

The program requires extensive walking. Most facilities visited are not wheelchair-accessible. Guests should wear comfortable walking shoes, and be able to walk the distances between the telescopes and climb stairs. Please let us know 24 hours in advance at kpvc@noirlab.edu or phone (520) 318-8726 if you require mobility assistance.

• Check in at the Visitor Center at least 15 minutes before the start of your tour.
• Strollers or carry-on infants are NOT permitted.
• Advance reservations are strongly recommended, but not required.
• Discounted tickets are available for seniors age 62 and older, groups of 8 persons or larger, active duty military with ID, and students with ID.
• Tohono O’odham Nation: This program is free to members of the Tohono O’odham nation (TON Tribal IDs will be checked upon arrival).
• ASTC Members: Tours are free for ASTC Members and immediate family members (ASTC Membership card will be checked upon arrival).

NOTE for international guests: Arizona State Route 86 has a U.S. Border Patrol checkpoint. If you are visiting from outside the U.S. please bring your passports with you to avoid any potential difficulties.

More Info

The Observatory’s 2.1-Meter Telescope was one of the earliest Kitt Peak telescopes and is used for both imaging and spectroscopy. It is paired with the Coudé Tower, which enables spectroscopic work to be performed independently of the main telescope, effectively making the 2.1-meter telescope a dual observing facility. This telescope remains operational today!

Accessibility

Kitt Peak is just shy of 7,000 feet (2096 meters) above sea level at the summit. Please consider any personal health issues that could arise from the altitude or walking at this elevation, such as: decreased lung capacity, cardiac issues, or other issues with altitude. If you have health concerns, please consult your doctor before visiting us.

Our programs typically involve walking, standing, and climbing stairs. Working service animals are welcome.

The walk to the Visitor Center from the parking lot is about 45 meters (50 feet).

The tour to the KPNO 2.1-meter Telescope requires walking up almost two flights of stairs and requires 1/4 mile walking somewhat uphill.

Please let us know 24 hours in advance at kpvc@noirlab.edu or phone +1 520 318 8726 if you require mobility assistance. The Visitor Center’s ability to provide special accommodations is severely limited.

We look forward to exploring the Universe with you!