Discovery Park Campus

Open to the Public

The EAC Discovery Park Campus is open to the public Monday through Friday, 8:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. and Saturday evenings from 4:00 p.m. to 9:30 p.m. The main attractions available to the public are conducted in the Gov Aker Observatory building. All of these activities are offered free of charge (except for special events). The Gov Aker Observatory houses a series of of galleries allowing visitors the opportunity to ponder the origins of the universe. The first exhibit explains various cultural interpretations of the beginning of life.

Other gallery exhibits demonstrate to visitors how light is composed of many colors and light waves. Visitors learn about the Sun and can enter a room to hear the sounds of space. Another exhibit demonstrates how telescope mirrors are constructed under the University of Arizona football stadium, and another explains part of the history of astronomy. (Included in the display about the history of astronomy is the 130-year-old Mertz telescope and 400-year-old astrolabe - both on loan from the Vatican.)

During the day, just prior to sunset, visitors will see the image created by one of the world’s largest camera obscuras. Visitors can also look through the Gov Aker Observatory telescope to see the Sun through special filters.

The Space Shuttle Polaris takes visitors on a virtual tour through the solar system. This high-tech motional simulator blasts off from the Discovery Park Campus, over the 10,720 foot Mt. Graham to visit each of the planets in the solar system. The on-board “computer” describes the journey to make it a very educational and entertaining experience. Hold on because we don't want any crash landings!

For information about public tours or to make a special reservation, contact the Discovery Park Campus at (928) 428-6260.

Trails and habitat

The EAC Discovery Park Campus (Discovery Park Campus) includes a number of trails criss-crossing the habitat area. The public is welcome to use these trails for hiking, jogging, or just enjoying nature. These activities are free of charge. Please do not park your vehicle in the Discovery Park Campus grounds except during public hours, or your vehicle may get locked inside the property. The habitat is a natural area with the plants and animals you would expect to find in the desert southwest. Rattlesnakes and Gila Monsters do roam the habitat. Please be aware of their presence and take appropriate precautions.

Special Public Events

Throughout the year, EAC and other community groups offer public events at the Discovery Park Campus. These are usually advertised in advance and may include an entrance fee. Events offered in the past include the Halloween Spook House, Astronomy Day, storytelling events , and star parties.