Entry A · Roof
The roof rolls back.
Spencer's has a retractable roof, so the whole group stands under open sky with a panoramic view over the Tucson Mountains.
Observing log · Star Tour · 2 hrs
What happens up there.
A Star Tour, written up the way an observer keeps notes. Up to ten guests, after dark, by reservation.
Entry B · 14" Celestron
The big one.
The observatory rates it “ideal for deep-sky objects and fine planetary detail”: the telescope for galaxies, star clusters and the planets.
Entry C · 10" Meade LX200
The precise one.
Computer-guided. The observatory says experienced star gazers will enjoy its precision.
Entry D · 4" Stellarvue
The easy one.
A refractor for wide views, which the observatory calls excellent at any skill level. A good place to start if you've never used a telescope.
Entry E · Guides
Victor Sunstar and team.
The guides start with whatever you know. Constellations first, by eye; then the eyepiece.
Open questions
Ask these when you book.
Start time. Tours run after dark; the observatory sets the time with you.
Clouds. No weather policy is published. Ask what happens if the sky closes in.
Children and access. Not covered on the observatory's page, so check by phone.
Drinks. The observatory suggests bringing a bottle of wine to pass the time.