Nightly Observing Program at Kitt Peak Visitor Center

Observe at the WIYN 0.9-m. Find out more about this limited time special program.

Imagine a night under the stars at Kitt Peak National Observatory! Professional astronomers the world over aspire to do their research here, and now, you can experience the wonder of hands-on astronomy. We'll review recent advances in the field and provide an understandable perspective of our place in the universe. Then, we'll use our three telescopes to take a visual journey through the cosmos. Come experience Kitt Peak with us!

Quick Rate Info

Adults: $49
Seniors: $45 (age 62 and over)
Students: $45 (elementary to college)
Military: $45 (with current ID)
Group Rates Available

Weather Program

Unfortunately the skies are not always clear above Kitt Peak. Each afternoon we make a decision about the weather outlook and invite people to visit the mountain even on cloudy nights!

Our “Weather Program” is an in depth presentation that includes many unique elements as well as portions of the regular Nightly Observing Program:

Eating during “sunset”
Discovering the National Observatory
Hands on display of our (Visitor Center) telescopes
Visiting research observatories as available (including SARA and Spacewatch)
Learning how to use star charts
Witnessing the dynamic universe through unique animations
Interactive spectroscopy demonstration
Observing with the telescope if the weather permits, as it often does on Kitt Peak!

Many people come from out-of-state or have only one chance to visit us. Now we can accommodate everyone’s wish. Discover your universe at Kitt Peak!

Will It Be Clear Tonight?

Click here to get the latest National Weather Service Forecast for the Quinlan Mountains on the Tohono O’odham Nation (home to Kitt Peak National Observatory).

Also, try this excellent page from Cleardarksky.com: it’s the Kitt Peak Clear Sky Chart. Directions and legend are included. It’s a hoot!.

Finally, check out the National Center for Atmospheric Research Real-time Weather Data page. Make some choices (visible or infrared, latest image or animation) and click on southern Arizona on their U.S. map. We use this page A LOT!