Space, Science & Technology In Tucson

Expand your mind and discover why Tucson is known as the Southwest's Science City

With the country's biggest optics program, the #1 space program ranked by the National Science Foundation, and one of the top research institutions in the world at the University of Arizona, Tucson is still a pioneer town, but now we mine cutting-edge knowledge instead of ore. We're also home to Davis-Monthan Air Force base, and the rows and rows of planes at the adjacent Pima Air & Space Museum offer one of the deepest dives into aerospace history you'll ever find.

Telescopes top our mountains, taking advantage of Tucson's clean air and clear, dark skies to make us the "astronomy capital of the world." What does that mean? Reserve your spot in the 5-hour SkyNights program at Mt. Lemmon SkyCenter and find out as you see the universe in a way most people never will. Back on Earth, the Titan Missile Museum offers a fascinating look back at the Cold War. And Biosphere 2, which made history as Earth's first self-contained biome, now invites the public to learn more about its innovative research on climate change and other vital science topics.

Tucson also stakes its claim as a mecca for geologists and rock hounds looking for rare gems and minerals. Every year we host the world's largest Tucson Gem Mineral & Fossil Showcase, which houses an innumerable amount of treasures for anyone interested or involved with this particular scientific field, or even those just looking for awe-inspiring jewelry and decor.