Our History
UA Science: Flandrau got its start with a 1972 bequest from the estate of Grace H. Flandrau, noted author and frequent winter visitor to Tucson. The University decided to use the generous gift to fund a facility that would increase public understanding and appreciation of science.
Originally known as The Grace H. Flandrau Planetarium, the facility was part of the UA Department of Astronomy. Its location on campus, near the Astronomy Department, Optical Sciences Center, Lunar and Planetary Laboratory and historic Steward Observatory, reflects its continuing connections to the research community.
The Planetarium was designed by Tucson architectural firm Blanton and Company and opened its door to the public in 1975.
UA Science: Flandrau is open 7 days a week.
Shows for groups are available by reservation only.
**The Flandrau Science Center and Planetarium will be closed the evening of Friday, February 3rd for a private event**
| Planetarium/Exhibits/Mineral Museum | Laser Light Shows | Group Reservations | Observatory | |
| Monday | 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. | 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. | CLOSED | |
| Tuesday | 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. | 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. | CLOSED | |
| Wednesday | 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. | 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. | 7 p.m. to 10 p.m. | |
| Thursday |
10 a.m. to 3 p.m. 6 p.m. to 9 p.m. (Family Night) |
7:30 p.m. (Family) | 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. | 7 p.m. to 10 p.m. |
| Friday |
10 a.m. to 3 p.m. 6 p.m. to 9 p.m. |
8 p.m. | 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. | 7 p.m. to 10 p.m. |
| Saturday | 10 a.m. to 9 p.m. | 5:30 p.m and 8 p.m. | 7 p.m. to 10 p.m. | |
| Sunday | 1 p.m. to 4 p.m. | 2:30 p.m. (Family) | CLOSED |
Flandrau is committed to bringing an ever-changing array of quality, engaging exhibits covering a broad range of science topics to the Tucson community. From popular hands-on traveling exhibits to special exhibits developed with the amazing researchers and scientists at the U of A, you can be sure to get your science fix when you visit! Make sure to keep checking our website for current and future exhibit offerings.
Click on the links to the left to see descriptions of our permanant, featured current and upcoming exhibits.
Flandrau Science Center offers a variety of programs for school groups, families and the general public. Please click on the links to the left for more information about specific programs or call 621-4516.
We have several ways for our community to be involved! See the menu to the left for more details.
Please continue to visit this page as we add additional resources and science content over time!
Science News!