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Mt. Graham International Observatory

A University of Arizona Astrophysical Research Site

Search Safford Arizona

The 150-acre Mount Graham International Observatory is a scientific research area conceived in the early 1980s. Two of the first telescopes were dedicated in 1993. Chosen for its outstanding location, Mount Graham combines the advantages of existing southwestern sites (like Kitt Peak and Mt Lemmon) with very good image sharpness, low light pollution, an altitude high enough for infrared work and an existing paved access highway. It is essentially unique in its astronomical qualities within the continental United States.

The Discovery Park's Gov Aker Observatory conducts weekend tours of the Mount Graham International Observatory. Tours begin in mid-May and go through mid-November, weather permitting. Because of the endangered red squirrel, access is limited to observatory personnel during the winter (November 15th-April 15th).

Please call to inquire about scheduled events and further touring information.

Location: 1480 W Swift Trail, Safford Arizona 85546 Telephone 928-428-2739 Fax 928-428-2854

Other Science nearby:
(Safford) Discovery Park
(Safford) Mt. Graham International Observatory

03/28 Coming to The Safford area
Arizona Renaissance Festival Apache Junction AZ March30-31 In addition to village street and pathway events, the Festival has twelve stages of ongoing shows performing every half-hour. From the daily opening ceremony to the closing cannon shot, every Festival minute and every Festival acre is filled with mirth, merriment and marketplace exhibitions.
Marana Main Street Festival Marana AZ April6 Located downtown at Marana Main Street and Civic Center Drive, between the Marana Municipal Complex and the Marana Health Center. There will be: Kids activities, Entertainment, Food, Vendors, Bed races, Concert (Saturday night), Pancake breakfast (Sunday), and RV boondocking (Friday-Sunday).
Prickly Pear Festival Superior AZ August24 The historic copper mining town of Superior hosts a new prickly pear festival featuring a morning “how to pick and juice ‘em” class by Jean Groen.
Tucson Greek Festival Tucson AZ September26-29 Of course, there is live Greek music, dancing, and our exquisite food. But there is even more for you to explore. There are different cooking demonstrations every day so that you can learn to replicate our pastries and delicious meals at home.