The National Optical Astronomy Observatories is located at
Kitt Peak. This is the world's largest optical observatory. The observatory features a visitor center. There are also daily tours. These are available from 9:00 a.m. until 4:00 p.m. For nightly programs call for details and reservations.
Kitt Peak is the home of research facilities for two divisions of the National Optical Astronomy Observatories (NOAO): Kitt Peak National Observatory and the National Solar Observatory. Kitt Peak was selected as the site for a national observatory after a three-year survey involving more than 150 mountain sites across the United States. Kitt Peak is located on the Tohono O'odham Reservation. In October 1958, the National Science Foundation signed a lease with the Tribal Council for use of 200 acres of the mountaintop.
