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Coats Observatory

designed by John Honeyman for Thomas Coats. Opened in 1883 and one of the best-equipped small observatories in the country. The Grade A building houses a variety of equipment and carries out weather recordings and activities. It has recently been fitted with a new dome. This is a must for astronomy enthusiasts.

It has been extended on several occasions since. The Museum and Art Gallery house many fine exhibits ranging from local natural history to its world-famous collection of Paisley Pattern Shawls.

The National Lottery, Art Fund, private trusts and foundations, Scottish Government acquisition grant funding and by a part gift by previous owners Diageo Scotland Ltd.

The National Lottery and Scottish Government also gave additional funds to enable the painting to go on tour in Scotland.

Joyce McKellar, Chief Executive of Renfrewshire Leisure, said: ‘We are delighted to work in partnership with National Galleries Scotland to welcome the Monarch of the Glen to Paisley Museum and Art Gallery in early 2018.

Following the acquisition of this iconic painting for the nation, this will provide an opportunity for new audiences to see the Monarch of the Glen, and to be able to engage with the debate on what it means for our history and identity.” Monarch of the Glen will go on display at Paisley Museum 20 January – 11 March 2018

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Coats Observatory

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Coats Observatory - All You Need to Know BEFORE You Go (2024)

• Sun - Sun 2:00 p.m. - 5:00 p.m.
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• (0.04 km) Oakshaw Apartment - Elegant Rustic Apartment in City Centre
• (0.18 km) Ashtree House Hotel, Glasgow Airport.
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Coats Observatory

Coats Observatory is currently closed while Paisley Museum undergoes a £45m transformation project.

You can read more about that project on the Paisley Museum Reimagined website . And you can read updates on the refurbishment of Coats Observatory on the OneRen website.

A brief history of ​Coats Observatory

Coats Observatory is the oldest surviving public observatory in Scotland. It opened on 1 st October 1883 and it offered visitors a unique opportunity to view the night sky. It has powerful telescopes housed in the observatory dome. This dome can be seen across Paisley and is a very recognisable feature of the town’s skyline. 

The idea for building an observatory in Paisley first came about in 1880. A proposal to purchase a telescope was made at the AGM of the Paisley Philosophical Institution. Thomas Coats of Ferguslie, member of the famous Coats thread-manufacturing family , offered to meet the costs involved.

After buying the telescope, the Philosophical Institution realised they would need a  suitable building to house it. A piece of ground lying between the High Street and Oakshaw Street had been acquired by Thomas’ brother Peter. Peter had planned to use the land to extend the Museum and Library complex. However, they decided to use this land to construct a purpose-built observatory.

As well as funding the telescope and the building, Thomas Coats provided an endowment of £2000 towards the upkeep and future development of the observatory. Because of this hugely generous contribution, the Paisley Philosophical Institute agreed to name the place ‘Coats Observatory’ in his honour.

You can read more about the history of the observatory and updates on the refurbishment on the OneRen website.

The sky at night

Before it closed for refurbishment, the Observatory was a popular destination for visitors, school trips and anyone interested in the night sky. John Pressly, resident science curator and observatory officer, led free drop-in star gazing nights in the grounds of the building. With telescopes pointed to the skies, on a clear night, visitors have seen meteor showers, distant planets, shooting stars and the Milky Way.

If you want to keep up to date with what’s happening in the skies above you, John and the team are active on the Coats Observatory Facebook page . There you can find ‘a rough guide to the solar system’, interesting facts about deep space, and updates on spotting stars, satellites and even the Northen Lights.

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Coats Observatory

Top ways to experience nearby attractions

Most Recent: Reviews ordered by most recent publish date in descending order.

Detailed Reviews: Reviews ordered by recency and descriptiveness of user-identified themes such as waiting time, length of visit, general tips, and location information.

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Coats Observatory - All You Need to Know BEFORE You Go (2024)

• Sun - Sun 2:00 pm - 5:00 pm
• Mon - Sat 11:00 am - 4:00 pm
• (0.04 km) Oakshaw Apartment - Elegant Rustic Apartment in City Centre
• (0.18 km) Ashtree House Hotel, Glasgow Airport.
• (0.25 km) Oakshaw Guest House
• (0.60 km) Kombi Campers
• (0.96 km) Muirholme B&B
• (0.15 km) Roasters
• (0.21 km) Cardosi's Restaurant
• (0.16 km) Cardosi's Espresso Bar
• (0.20 km) Malatso Cafe
• (0.23 km) Allan's Snack Bar

Coats Observatory

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Most Recent: Reviews ordered by most recent publish date in descending order.

Detailed Reviews: Reviews ordered by recency and descriptiveness of user-identified themes such as waiting time, length of visit, general tips, and location information.

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COATS OBSERVATORY: All You Need to Know BEFORE You Go (with Photos)

In this section

The Science Collection consists primarily of the instruments and apparatus from Coats Observatory, the oldest purpose-built public observatory in Scotland.

The observatory was run by Paisley Philosophical Institution and funded by members of the Coats family, initially Thomas and then his son James. The intention was to create one of the best equipped astronomical observatories in the country and no expense was spared in purchasing top of the range apparatus from some of the most renowned instrument makers of the late nineteenth century. Coats Observatory also functioned as a meteorological centre, taking daily weather readings from shortly after it opened in 1883 to the present, and the collection includes many of these historically important objects too.

Included in the collection are various telescopes; spectroscopes which determine the chemical composition of distant stellar objects by examining the light they emit; magnetometers to measure changes in the Earth’s magnetic field; seismometers for measuring earthquakes; assorted eyepieces for a variety of astronomical studies and several microscopes. These are complimented by an extensive library of astronomy and meteorology textbooks from the same era.

For more information on our Science collection, please contact our Science Curator John Pressly 

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Coats Observatory - 4 Things to Know Before Visiting

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About coats observatory.

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Coats Observatory is Scotland's oldest public observatory. It is currently closed for refurbishment as part of a 4-year long £42m transformation of the observatory and museum buildings. Located in Oakshaw Street West, Paisley, Renfrewshire, the observatory has been operational since 1 October 1883 and continues to function to this day, offering visitors the opportunity to view the night sky through the powerful telescopes housed within the building. The observatory is currently closed for redeve

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Ashtree House Hotel, Glasgow Airport & Paisley

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Activities Around

Attractions near coats observatory.

Paisley Museum & Art Gallery

0.07km from coats observatory.

It is a museum and public art gallery located in the town of Paisley and is run by Renfrewshire Council. It houses one of the largest municipal art collections in Scotland, including over 800 paintings. The Museum holds the collections of Renfrewshire Council and the Paisley Art Institute Collection, held by Paisley Museum and Art Galleries. The painting collections consist of over 800 works.

Sma' Shot Cottages

0.43km from coats observatory.

The Sma’ Shot Cottages are a major tourist attraction of historical significance in the Renfrewshire area, offering a unique insight into two distinct periods of Paisley’s textile history. On crossing the yard, you will discover the house of a foreman of a nearby mill in the mid-19th century. Within this house, visitors can experience what family life was like within the kitchen/living area, bedroom, children’s room and parlour – each room is decorated to represent various time periods from the

Fountain Gardens, Paisley

0.55km from coats observatory.

Fountain Gardens is Paisley’s oldest public park. It consists of a grand geometric layout with broad walkways, all of which lead to the Grand Fountain – an ornate cast-iron fountain at the centre of the park which contains statues of herons, dolphins and walruses. The A listed fountain consists of dolphins, herons, cherubs and walruses. George Smith and Company of the Sun Foundry in Glasgow constructed the fountain. Stained-glass artist and designer Daniel Cottier was enlisted to paint and colou

Paisley Town Hall

0.59km from coats observatory.

Paisley Town Hall is a popular entertainment and conference venue that is host to a variety of concerts, shows and conferences. The main auditorium of the building can seat up to 750 people with a balcony, gallery and stalls area.

Paisley Abbey

0.68km from coats observatory.

Paisley Abbey is a parish church of the Church of Scotland on the east bank of the White Cart Water in the centre of the town of Paisley, Renfrewshire, about 12 miles west of Glasgow, in Scotland. Its origins date from the 12th century, based on a former Cluniac monastery. Following the Reformation in the 16th century, it became a Church of Scotland parish kirk.

St Mirin's R C Cathedral

0.92km from coats observatory.

The Cathedral Church of Saint Mirin in Paisley is dedicated to Saint Mirin – the patron saint of Paisley. Designed by Thomas Baird in 1932, the church which is the mother church of the Catholic Diocese of Paisley and the seat of the Bishop of Paisley became a cathedral in 1948. This remarkable building is Romanesque with canted apse and tower-flanked narthex, and home to an organ constructed in 1912. The church is also the largest in the Diocese, accommodating around 1300 worshippers.

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Discover More Attractions in Renfrewshire , Home of Coats Observatory

Renfrewshire

25 attractions.

Located in the west central Lowlands, it is one of three council areas contained within the boundaries of the historic county of Renfrewshire, the others being East Renfrewshire to the east and Inverclyde to the west. It also shares borders with Glasgow, North Ayrshire and West Dunbartonshire, and lies on the southern bank of the River Clyde.

Location of Coats Observatory

For more information about Coats Observatory , visit: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Coats_Observatory

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Coats Observatory

PAISLEY, RENFREWSHIRE

The Observatory, funded by Thomas Coats and designed by John Honeyman, was opened in 1883. It houses a 5 and 10 inch telescopes under the dome at the top. Weather recording activities have been carried out here continuously since 1884. There is also earthquake-measuring equipment and the Renfrewshire Astronomical Society holds regular meetings here. There are displays on the solar system, earthquakes and the telescope.

Facilities – at a glance

Assist dogs allowed

Suitable for all child ages

• Suitable for children of all ages
• Parking nearby
• Facilities: Lift
• Open all year
• Opening Times: Open all year, Tue-Sat 11-4, Sun 2-5; PHs 11-4. Winter viewings Nov-Mar 6.30-9pm. Solar viewings Jun-Sep, Thu 2-4

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About the area

Discover renfrewshire.

The council area of Renfrewshire is one of three areas that make up the historic county of the same name, the other two being East Renfrewshire and Inverclyde.

The county town is Renfrew, however it is Paisley which is the main settlement and its abbey, cathedral and museum draw many visitors to the town. Whether you spend a morning buying local produce at the farmers’ market or take the whole family to the Coats Observatory, Paisley and its history and architecture make a varied and fascinating visit. 

Outside of the towns, spend some time enjoying Renfrewshire’s natural beauty at Finlaystone Country Estate, Gleniffer Braes Country Park or RSPB Lochwinnoch Nature Reserve. Those with a particular interest in church history should take in some of Renfrewshire’s highlights on the Renfrewshire Ecclesiastical Trail, which follows the area’s stories and colourful past.

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Coats Observatory 130th Anniversary

Coats observatory 130 th anniversary.

Tuesday 1 October will mark the 130 th anniversary of the opening of Coats Observatory . To commemorate this event the observatory will play host to an evening of astronomical-themed events.

Coats Observatory is Scotland’s oldest public observatory. A gift to the town from the Paisley Philosophical Institution and funded primarily by Thomas Coats of the Coats thread-manufacturing family, Coats Observatory first opened its doors to the public on the night of October the first, 1883. Coats Observatory was the first purpose-built observatory in Scotland which allowed members of the public access to a powerful telescope to see the wonders of the universe up close.

The building now operates as a visitor attraction and museum. During the day visitors can enjoy a guided tour around the building, taking in some of the fantastic Victorian-era scientific equipment once used to record earthquakes, the weather and observe the stars and take in the view from the balcony. In the winter months the observatory opens twice a week to keep up the tradition of allowing members of the public to look at the night sky through the telescope. If the weather is poor a state of the art digital planetarium provides a virtual tour of the cosmos without having to leave the comfort of your seat.

To celebrate its 130 th anniversary Coats Observatory will open from 7pm to 10pm on Tuesday 1 October. Amongst the activities on offer will be planetarium films, guided tours, a talk on the history of the institution and, weather permitting, night sky viewing from 9pm – 10pm. If the weather prevents the use of the telescope planetarium shows will operate instead.

Admission to Coats Observatory is free, although places must be booked for the planetarium films as spaces are limited. Please call Paisley Museum on 0300 300 1210 to book. Films will operate at 7.30pm, 8pm and 8.30pm.

Entry to Coats Observatory that evening will be via 49 Oakshaw Street West, Paisley, PA1 2DR.

For any other information on the event, please contact Coats Observatory on 0141 618 5119.

For further information on Renfrewshire Arts & Museums’ events log on to www.renfrewshire.gov.uk/events or follow us on Facebook www.facebook.com/renfrewshirearts or Twitter @RenArtsMuseums.

Founder of Paisley.org.uk in 1998 and constantly strives to change peoples attitudes to the town, Brian is a self described Paisley Digital Champion who promotes Paisley via any means necessary. You can also follow me on X

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Coats Observatory

Top ways to experience nearby attractions

Most Recent: Reviews ordered by most recent publish date in descending order.

Detailed Reviews: Reviews ordered by recency and descriptiveness of user-identified themes such as waiting time, length of visit, general tips, and location information.

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Coats Observatory - All You Need to Know BEFORE You Go (2024) - Tripadvisor

• Sun - Sun 2:00 PM - 5:00 PM
• Mon - Sat 11:00 AM - 4:00 PM
• (0.04 km) Oakshaw Apartment - Elegant Rustic Apartment in City Centre
• (0.18 km) Ashtree House Hotel, Glasgow Airport.
• (0.25 km) Oakshaw Guest House
• (0.60 km) Kombi Campers
• (0.96 km) Muirholme B&B
• (0.15 km) Roasters
• (0.21 km) Cardosi's Restaurant
• (0.16 km) Cardosi's Espresso Bar
• (0.20 km) Malatso Cafe
• (0.23 km) Allan's Snack Bar

Visit the SkyCenter

Mt. Lemmon SkyCenter is home to Steward Observatory's public astronomy outreach program and is located high above the city of Tucson, Arizona.  Our exceptional science programs take place on the summit of a Sky Island , at an elevation of 9,157 feet.   Operating under permit from the  U.S. Forest Service , we proudly provide access to the Schulman 32" inch and the Phillips 24" telescopes.  These are TWO of the largest telescopes available for public outreach in the Southwest.  

All of our programs have capacity limits and are available by advance reservation only . Note that we often sell out, especially around holidays and in the spring months, where programs fill 1 - 3 weeks in advance.

*Please note: During October through April, and especially during November, December, January and February, the weather will be very cold during your experience. Please be prepared with layers, heavy coats, boots, and other items to keep you warm during your visit. 

Please call (520-626-8122) or email us ( [email protected]) with any questions regarding disability-related access, or to request disability-related accommodation.  Please understand that our program operates at a high altitude mountain location and that in order for us to provide some accommodations (e.g. sign language interpreting, wheelchair accessible transportation in the winter) we require advance notice. 

Office hours  are Tues-Sun 12 PM - 5 PM MST  (520) 626-8122  [email protected]

• SkyNights StarGazing Program:  Our premier evening StarGazing program is available, by reservation, on most Wednesday, Thursday, Friday, Saturday, and Sunday evenings. This five-hour program starts two hours prior to sunset and includes an astronomy lecture, a light dinner, sunset, and guided navigation of the night sky.  We'll start with binoculars and end with views through the Schulman 32-inch and/or the Phillips 24-inch telescopes.  Views may include our spectacular neighboring planets, distant galaxies and nebula, star clusters, and other celestial wonders.  Due to the outdoor nature and length of the program, it is generally appropriate for ages 7 and up.  Prices are indicated on the  reservation calendar  for each event.
• By reservation only - Day Tours and Solar Viewings:  Offered for groups of 20 or more by special arrangement, these walking tours are 1 1/2 to 2 hours in length.  We will bring you to the observatory and talk about the beginnings of the Mt. Lemmon Observatories, the SkyCenter programs, and our future as both a research facility and a public outreach center.  We will introduce you to the work of the Catalina Sky Survey, discuss near-earth objects, and explain the purpose and the people behind each of the 9 summit telescopes.  Weather permitting, you will also view the Sun through dedicated solar telescopes.  This tour is $15 per person and requires a minimum of 20 participants.  For groups of less than 20 people, we can provide this tour for a flat rate of $300.  
• Picnic Day Tours:  Same as above but we'll pack you a lunch!  The day tour with lunch is $25 per person and requires a minimum of 20 participants.  For groups of less than 20 people, we can provide this tour for a flat rate of $500.  
• Astronomer Nights, Viewing Only:   From the novice to the professional, this is an outstanding opportunity to spend the entire evening with a professional guide using our telescopes to peer at a multitude of celestial objects.  This program is $1500 per night for up to 4 people and includes lodging, participation in our regular SkyNights program (optional), and snacks throughout the evening.
• Astronomer Nights w/ CCD Photography:  For experienced astronomers with working knowledge of CCD photography.  Pursue a more detailed analysis of astronomical data using our telescopes, CCD cameras, and other resources.  This program is $1500 per night for up to 2 people and includes lodging, participation in our regular SkyNights program (optional), and snacks throughout the evening.
• Private and semi-private Astronomy Events: Can be arranged by contacting our office 2 – 3 months prior to the desired date.  
• Special programs: (meteor showers, eclipses, Messier Marathon,  etc.) Are available throughout the year and sell out quickly - keep one eye on the sky and one on our calendar!

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5 main observatories in Russia

1. Pulkovo Observatory, Leningrad Region

This is considered the country’s main observatory, which has been in operation since 1839 and belongs to the Russian Academy of Sciences. It’s located about 19 km south of St. Petersburg on the Pulkovo Heights - about 75 meters above sea level. At the time it was built, it was not the first in Russia, but it had advanced tools for observing celestial bodies. This was necessary for the development of navigation, first of all, as well as for determining the time. 

Before the 1917 Revolution, the meridian that passed through the center of the main building was used as a reference point for geographic longitude (previously, different countries each used their own prime meridian and there was confusion on maps, until they agreed to consider the Greenwich meridian as a prime) and this system of reference can still be found on old maps.

Today, the large Pulkovo radio telescope, the prototype of the world’s largest telescope in Nizhny Arkhyz, is installed there. It also houses one of the largest solar telescopes in the world - the ACU-5.  

Besides the scientific center near St. Petersburg, the observatory also operates a mountain astronomical station near Kislovodsk (Stavropol Territory). Also, one telescope of the Pulkovo Observatory is installed at the Italian observation station Campo Imperatore, 100 km from Rome, and another at the Svetloye Observatory in Leningrad Region. 

For astronomy enthusiasts, the observatory staff conducts thematic tours , which include explaining how to work with different types of telescopes.

2. Special Astrophysical Observatory, Karachay-Cherkessia

Not far from the village of Nizhny Arkhyz, high in the mountains, sits Russia’s largest observatory , founded in 1966. There, you can find the giant RATAN-600 telescope with a mirror diameter of about 600 meters and weighing 650 tons. There’s no other in the world! 

The place for the observatory is ideal: in the Caucasus, the sky area is considered the darkest and clearest and the stars can be seen perfectly. 

Inside the Arkhyz observatory, there are interesting preserved Soviet mosaics with stars, cosmonauts and “tailed” comets. Of course, it’s also worth visiting for the incredibly charming views of Arkhyz Valley. 

3. Sternberg Astronomical Institute Observatory, Moscow

One of the oldest astronomical observatories in Russia is located in Moscow's Krasnopresnensky District (Novovagankovsky Lane, 5), which was built back in 1830. Previously, this place was on the outskirts and there was no powerful light grid in the city, so the evening lights did not interfere with the study of clusters of galaxies and star nebulae. In 1920, an Astronomical Institute was established there, which later became part of Moscow State University. Krasnopresnenskaya Observatory remained a museum for a long time (now it’s closed), while students and researchers now study at the MSU observatory at Vorobyovy Gory (Sparrow Hills). 

Now, it holds lectures, master classes and tours for all visitors. The observatory also has preserved many pieces of vintage equipment from different times, which are on display. 

4. Pushchino Radio Astronomy Observatory, Moscow Region

A radio astronomical observatory is located near the town of Pushchino (about 80 km south of Moscow). It was opened in 1956 and some equipment there has been perfectly preserved since that time, including RT-22 radio telescopes with 22-meter mirrors.

Astronomers discovered the super-corona of the Sun and found its radial structure at this observatory. 

Several times a year, the observatory holds an Open Doors Day and astronomical festivals with guided tours of the science center. 

5. Baikal Astrophysical Observatory, Irkutsk Region

A solar telescope on the shores of Lake Baikal is among the top ten largest in the world. The Baikal Astrophysical Observatory was founded in 1980 on the outskirts of the village of Listvyanka (about 70 km from Irkutsk) to observe solar activity. Due to a special microclimate in this region, solar flares and sunspots are clearly visible, so scientists can predict solar activity. 

Astronomy enthusiasts can also look through a telescope and see protuberances for themselves. Tours take place all year round, both day and night. 

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Plan Your Visit

Book your tickets on eventbrite ..

Use the menu to explore our currently available options.

Learn how to find us, how to prepare for a safe and comfortable visit, and understand our environment.

The Kitt Peak Visitor Center is your first stop on any visit and your springboard to informative daytime tours, nighttime stargazing and telescope viewing programs, fascinating exhibits, a terrific gift shop, and beautiful panoramic mountain top views!

We host a variety of Day-time Tours and Nighttime programs .

Weather on Kitt Peak

Weather varies with the seasons and temperatures are typically 15 to 20 degrees F (7-10 degrees C) cooler than in Tucson and often windy. Dress appropriately and bring layers of clothing. From late fall through mid-spring, hats, gloves, warm socks and insulated jackets are strongly advised. Bringing a blanket is also recommended in cooler months. It is better to bring a few extra clothes or blankets you end up not using than to be uncomfortable during your night program.

A phone hotline is updated every day by 5:45 am MST during weather related events. Please call +1-520-318-8010 to check whether it is safe to drive to the summit.

See the phases of the Moon on this page .

Kitt Peak is located at the end of route 386 on the Tohono O’odham Nation, 54 miles west of Tucson. Coming from Tucson, take route 86 (Ajo Way) west to the junction of 386. Make a left turn at the sign and follow the road to the top of the mountain. Please see the Google map for additional information and directions to Kitt Peak Visitor Center.

The public parking area for both day and evening activities is near the Visitor Center. RVs may not be parked overnight on observatory grounds.

KPNO, Tucson, AZ 85634, USA Tucson, AZ 85719, USA Tel: +1 520 318 8726 [email protected]

Map of telescopes at Kitt Peak National Observatory

Accessibility, elevation, & health.

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 Daytime tour to the McMath-Pierce Solar telescope at 10 am is the only tour that does not have stairs. A guest can pick up a driving permit at the gift shop and follow the walking tour to first the optical tunnel and then into the main building. Both can be accessed by a walker.

The second tour to the KPNO 2.1-meter Telescope at 11:30 am and the third tour to the Nicholas U. Mayall 4-meter Telescope at 1:30 pm require walking up almost two flights of stairs. The former requires 1/4 mile walking somewhat uphill and the latter 1/2 mile walking uphill.

The Nightly Observing Program views the sunset, which is about 275 meters (300 yards) uphill from the visitor Center. Transport to the sunset viewing area can be arranged. The Visitor Center 0.5-meter Telescope has a short flight of stairs or a slow elevator to the telescope. Reaching the telescope eyepiece, though, may be difficult for guests restricted to wheelchairs.

Please let us know 24 hours in advance at [email protected] or phone +1 520 318 8726 if you require mobility assistance. The Visitor Center’s ability to provide special accommodations is severely limited. This is particularly true for evening programs. We cannot provide sign language interpreters for nighttime programs. These programs run under extremely dark conditions.

If You Are Not a US Citizen

Although the Visitor Center is open to all, the US Government requires passports or green cards for visitors from other countries when driving eastbound through the Border Control checkpoint on Arizona State Route 86. Please be sure you bring your passport with you in order to avoid difficulties.

Gas, Lodging, Food, Camping

There are no gas stations, restaurants, or hotels on Kitt Peak. Be sure to have a full tank of gas in your car and bring your lunch if you believe you will get hungry. There are snacks and drinks for sale in the Visitor Center during regular hours of operation. Meals for evening and overnight guests are provided as part of the program. There is no overnight camping near the peak, and no overnight parking on Observatory property.

Fire Danger

Fire is an enormous danger to life and property on this mountain. All smoking is prohibited while on Kitt Peak, both indoors and outdoors. Please report any indications of smoke or fire to any personnel you see so they can take appropriate action. Follow all directions issued to you by Kitt Peak Staff in the event of a fire.

Cell Phones

Cell phone use is prohibited for calls and data transfers. Please place cell phones in “Airplane mode” or turn them off completely while visiting the observatory. Kitt Peak is home to two large, highly sensitive radio telescopes that are performing scientific research 24 hours a day, and the cellular signal can disrupt this research. Limited Wi-Fi is available.

Tourist & Professional Photography

Visitors are welcome to photograph objects of interest while on the mountain. The Tohono O’odham people regard the surrounding terrains to be of significant cultural importance and request that visitors refrain from photographing those areas. When in doubt, please ask for assistance.

Watch for Animals & Rocks

Please be on the alert for roaming wildlife and livestock both while driving and during your visit. You might encounter mountain lions, bobcats, coyotes, bears, deer, skunks, spiders, and snakes. Do not feed, pet, or otherwise approach or disturb any wildlife as these animals may be dangerous. Report any wildlife sightings to mountain personnel.

Cattle and horses range freely around the lower portions of Arizona State Route 386 and 86 and may cross the road in front of you. Rocks sometimes fall from cliff faces and can be big enough to damage your car. Please be alert at all times and drive at or slower than posted speed limits.

Age Restrictions

Due to the nature and location of our night-time programs, they are strongly not recommended for children under the age of 8 years. Parents or guardians are fully responsible for the conduct of accompanying minors. Disruptive youth (or adults) may be asked to remove themselves from the program without receiving a refund.

Driving and Arrival Time

We need all guests on the mountain and checked in at the Visitor Center before sunset, so please do not arrive later than your check-in time. Keep in mind that we are at least a 90-minute drive from downtown Tucson. Allow plenty of drive time. Upon your arrival, park in the parking lot near the Visitor Center. NOTE : If you arrive after 4:00 pm MST and you see the gate located near the beginning of the Observatory road (AZ State Route 386) is closed only in the right lane, please carefully drive around it and proceed up the mountain.

We discourage bringing pets. Service animals are welcome. Should animals be traveling with visitors, the following rules are to be observed:

• Pets are not allowed in any building on the mountain.
• Pets must be kept on leashes while on the grounds.
• Owners must clean up after their animals.

Additional Summit safety

Please read and observe the rest of the recommendations in our Summits Safety Document .

Explore Kitt Peak virtually before you visit with out Virtual Tour.

Frequently Asked Questions

• Q: Do I need to buy a ticket to just visit the Visitor Center? A: No. The visitor center is open seven days a week from 9 am to 4 pm. There is free parking right outside the Visitor center.
• Q: Can I walk around the grounds without a tour? A: No, due to active construction areas at the observatory, visitors need to be part of a guided tour.
• Q: Are the tours disabled accessible? A: Yes in parts. The Visitor Center is a short walk from the parking lot. Our nightly programs are accessible for disabled people. We have a wheelchair in the Visitor Center reception that you can borrow. However, please note that some parts of the Daytime tours are not wheelchair accessible. Guests should wear comfortable walking shoes, and be able to walk the distances between the telescopes and climb stairs. For example the Nicholas U. Mayall 4-meter Telescope Guided Tour tour is a 1/2 mile hike uphill. More information is in the Accessibility section here .
• Q: If I book the one tour do I have enough time to join the next tour? A: Yes.
• Q: Can I bring a coach or RV to the summit? A: Yes. Buses and RV can drive to the summit and park in the parking lot.
• Q: Is there food for purchase on site? A: No, unfortunately not. We only have some snacks and beverages for sale.
• Q: Can I bring a picnic? A: Yes, you are most welcome to bring a picnic and eat at our outdoor terrace.
• Q: Can I buy things I see in the gift shop? A: Yes, our shop sells high-quality Kitt Peak-inspired gifts and merchandise. T-shirts, posters, stickers, home decor, and more, designed and sold by independent artists around the Tohono O'odham Nation. We do not offer an online shop.