Guided Stargazing Experience at Mount Lemmon Lodge
Stargazing at Mount Lemmon Lodge
Saturday, August 29, 2026
Spend an evening exploring some of the brightest and most beautiful objects in the summer sky during a guided astronomy experience at Mount Lemmon Lodge.
As the sun sets over the Santa Catalina Mountains, astronomer and telescope maker Zane Landers will guide guests through the evening’s most prominent sights. Sunset is at 6:59 PM, and the program will begin as the sky transitions into twilight. Astronomical twilight runs from 7:46 PM to 8:16 PM, creating a beautiful window for observing the changing evening sky.
On this date, the Moon rises at 7:33 PM and will be just past full, which means it will brighten the sky and reduce the visibility of some fainter deep-sky objects. Even so, once it clears the trees, guests will still have the opportunity to enjoy views of the Moon, including some visible crater detail and surface features.
While waiting for the sky to darken, Zane will focus on a variety of other celestial highlights, which may include Venus, open star clusters, and colorful double stars. As conditions allow, guests may also have the chance to view selected summer nebulae and brighter portions of the Milky Way using specialized night-vision technology, even with the effects of moonlight.
Through a large-aperture telescope, guests will experience the night sky in remarkable detail, while Zane provides live narration and guidance throughout the program, making the experience engaging and accessible for both beginners and more experienced stargazers.
Binoculars will also be available for guests to scan the sky, and you are welcome to bring your own.
This is a relaxed, small-group experience designed to give everyone time to look through the equipment, ask questions, and enjoy a memorable summer evening beneath the Mount Lemmon sky.
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.
Observations are weather-dependent, and specific celestial objects may change based on sky conditions.
Event Details
Date: Saturday, August 29, 2026
Evening Format:
7:30 PM – 9:00 PM
Key Sky Times:
Sunset: 6:59 PM
Moonrise (just past full): 7:33 PM
Astronomical Twilight: 7:46 PM – 8:16 PM
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)
