The Sky’s the Limit
The new Marley Foundation Astronomy Discovery Center at Lowell Observatory is a game-changer for Flagstaff
If you’ve been in Arizona for a while, you probably know that the planet Pluto was discovered at Lowell Observatory in Flagstaff, a place steeped in astronomical history. (Well, the “planet” part is a bit controversial, but nevertheless).
Arizona is a hotbed of astronomy thanks to its clear sky and plentiful mountains in rural areas. And while Lowell Observatory dates back to 1894, and there are other, more modern telescopes in the state, Lowell has a special place in astronomy history and in the history of its hometown, Flagstaff.
But Flagstaff community leaders had long wanted to build a place at Lowell that would dramatically enhance the experience for visitors and help the campus fulfill its potential as a center for learning.
On Nov. 16, 2024, that vision became a reality when the $53.4 million Marley Foundation Astronomy Discovery Center at Lowell Observatory opened to the public. Hundreds of people went through the doors of the new facility that day and were treated to all the new exhibits and features of the Discovery Center as well as special programming.
The Center promises to be a game-changer not just for Lowell but for northern Arizona as a whole, providing an entirely new experience for visitors to learn about the cosmos.
“The Astronomy Discovery Center embodies the spirit of exploration and discovery that has been at the heart of Lowell Observatory for more than a century,” said Dr. Amanda Bosh, the newly appointed executive director of Lowell Observatory. “This Center will inspire awe and curiosity in visitors of all ages, providing an unmatched experience that combines cutting-edge technology with the beauty of Flagstaff’s dark skies.”
Constructed a few hundred yards from the Pluto Telescope, the Discovery Center is now the most prominent feature on the Lowell campus, a three-story, 40,000-square-foot facility designed to educate astronomy buffs of all ages. Some of its features include:
Lowell Universe Theater
A 180-seat theater with a two-story, 160-degree curved 16K LED screen, an LED screen on the ceiling and a stage for presentations.
The Rooftop Dark Sky Planetarium
A circular rooftop deck with heated seats and audio-visual features that turn sky-gazing into a totally different experience.
The Orbits Curiosity Zone
A two-story exhibit for children to explore interactive activities that teach them about the cosmos.
Astronomy Gallery-Stardust Lab
Full of interactive exhibits for children and adults to provide a deeper insight into our solar system and space.
Origins Gallery
The central feature of the indoor space of the Discovery Center, with a suspended artistic feature designed to depict the origins and evolution of the universe. And, of course, a café and gift shop to provide all the comforts needed to visitors to the Center.
The Discovery Center transforms the Lowell campus from a primarily nighttime attraction to an all-day, year-round attraction that can host families and field trips, locals and tourists from around the world. It promises to immediately become one of northern Arizona’s premier attractions and a significant economic impact driver.
To learn more, visit lowell.edu.
