Mount Lemmon Observatory

Mount Lemmon Observatory is an astronomical facility housing multiple telescopes on a high-altitude mountain northeast of Tucson. The site sits at about 2791 meters and combines research activities with public observing programs.

The site began in 1954 as a military air force station serving defense purposes. In 1970 the facility changed hands and became a research center for infrared astronomy under university control.

The facility serves today as a teaching center where groups and individuals come to observe stars and learn astronomy with trained guides. These programs help visitors connect with the night sky and understand what they see above them.

Plan visits during clear nights when cloud cover is minimal for the best viewing conditions. Bring warm clothing since the high elevation means temperatures drop noticeably after dark.

One of the telescopes here discovered an asteroid that was monitored as a potential collision hazard. The discovery highlighted how ground-based observatories help track dangerous space objects.

Location: Pima County

Elevation above the sea: 2,791 m

Website: https://skycenter.arizona.edu

GPS coordinates: 32.44200,-110.78900

Latest update: December 8, 2025 19:53