The world’s largest collection of optical telescopes is located high above the Sonoran Desert under some of the finest night skies in the world. Kitt Peak, on the Tohono O’odham Reservation, is home to twenty-four optical and two radio telescopes representing eight astronomical research institutions. Among the highlights are:
The 2.1-m Telescope Tour - One of the early workhorses of Kitt Peak. Built in 1964, the 2.1-m telescope is still in high demand every night.
The Mayall 4-m Telescope has been a landmark in since 1973, and is easily visible from many points in Tucson. The 4-m is the largest optical telescope on Kitt Peak, and receives 4 times more requests for use than there are clear nights each year. From the Visitor Gallery you have a beautiful 360 degree view of Kitt Peak and the surrounding landscape.
The Night Program - Each evening throughout the summer months, Kitt has a public program designed to increase participant’s knowledge of astronomy. Visitors view everything from planets to distant galaxies using the 20- and 16-inch Ritchey-Chrétien telescopes from RC Optical Systems and the 16-inch Meade Schmidt-Cassegrain telescope.
To learn more please visit: www.noao.edu/kpno