Tumamoc Hill observatory

Tumamoc Hill Observatory sits on Tumamoc Hill, just west of 'A' Mountain in downtown Tucson, Arizona, within an 860-acre ecological reserve and U.S. National Historic Landmark.

About Tumamoc Hill Observatory

The observatory is operated by Steward Observatory at the University of Arizona and maintains a 20-inch (510mm) telescope on the summit. The surrounding site is also home to the Desert Laboratory, which conducts long-running research into desert ecology, climate and plant physiology.

History

The site was established by the Carnegie Institution in 1903. The University of Arizona now owns a 340-acre portion of the preserve and leases an additional 509 acres, maintaining both the ecological reserve and the observatory.

Telescopes & research

Alongside the 20-inch telescope, Tumamoc Hill is a centre for desert ecology and climate research through the Desert Laboratory, making it a rare combination of astronomical and ecological science on one site.

Location & getting there

Tumamoc Hill rises just west of 'A' Mountain in downtown Tucson, Arizona, reached via a paved road that climbs more than 700 feet to the summit.

Visiting Tumamoc Hill Observatory

The reserve is open to the public daily from 4am to 10pm, popular with walkers and hikers, and occasional public stargazing events are held at the observatory; check ahead for the current schedule.

See your named star from here

With clear desert skies and a public-friendly summit, Tumamoc Hill is a great spot to try to spot a star you've named. Name a star or browse the catalogue to find its coordinates.