Saturday, August 15, 2026
Astronomy Evenings at Mount Lemmon Lodge
Look beyond the treetops and into the depths of the summer sky during an intimate guided stargazing experience at Mount Lemmon Lodge.
The Perseid meteor shower will have peaked earlier in the week, but it will still be active, giving guests a chance to spot lingering meteors streaking across Mount Lemmon’s dark skies. Between meteors, astronomer and telescope maker Zane Landers will guide the group through a changing collection of summer celestial sights.
Using a large-aperture telescope, specialized night-vision equipment and binoculars, guests may explore colorful star clusters, distant galaxies and glowing nebulae within the Milky Way. If viewing conditions cooperate, Zane will also attempt to locate Pluto, one of the most distant and elusive objects visible through an amateur telescope.
With very little moonlight later in the evening, conditions should offer a beautiful opportunity to experience the Milky Way, delicate nebulae and distant deep-sky objects under some of Southern Arizona’s darkest accessible skies.
Zane provides live narration and guidance throughout the evening, making the program approachable whether this is your first time looking through a telescope or you are already fascinated by the night sky.
Telescopes and binoculars will be provided, and guests are welcome to bring their own binoculars.
Space is limited, and advance reservations are recommended.
Please dress warmly for nighttime temperatures at 7,700 feet. Avoid using bright white flashlights or phone lights once the program begins so everyone’s night vision can adjust.
Observations are weather-dependent, and specific celestial objects may change based on sky conditions.
This is a relaxed, small-group experience designed to give guests time to engage, ask questions, and truly take in the night sky.
Event Details
Dates:
Saturday, August, 15
Saturday, August, 22
Saturday, August, 29
Evening Format:
- 7:30 PM – 8:00 PM: Indoor astronomy presentation
- ~8:00 PM – 9:00 PM: Outdoor guided telescope viewing
Duration:
Approximately 1.5–2 hours total
Location:
Indoor presentation at the Lodge, followed by stargazing in the garden north of the Lodge (weather permitting)
Capacity:
Limited to 20 guests
Eligibility:
Overnight Lodge guests only
Age Requirement:
Ages 7 and up
Price:
$45 per person
