Overnight Programs

OVERNIGHT PROGRAMS

Sky School's Overnight Programs are immersive, multi-day science experiences held at the Mt. Lemmon SkyCenter for students in grades 4–12. Participants investigate topics such as ecology, geology, astronomy, and climate science through hands-on fieldwork and nighttime telescope observation. Guided by University of Arizona graduate instructors, students explore the natural environment on Mt. Lemmon and work in small groups to complete inquiry projects using authentic scientific tools and methods. Evenings are spent learning about astronomy through guided activities, engagement with local astronomers, and observing the night skies through one of the world's largest public observing telescopes. The residential setting fosters deep engagement with the natural environment, the local astronomy community, and the scientific process. There are multiple program options depending on the desired length of stay and depth of content.
Students under night sky
  • Audience: Middle and High School
  • Group Size: 20-50 students
  • Format: 2-4 day residential experiences at the Mt. Lemmon SkyCenter
  • Focus: Ecology, geology, astronomy, climate science, and authentic scientific research
  • Features: Field research, telescope observation, UA graduate student mentorship, dormitory lodging, and student-designed inquiry projects

Overnight Program Options

Exploring the Sky Islands

$190 per student
(standard)

$170 per student
(Title I)


  • Program length: 2 days, 1 night
  • Suggested grades: 3rd - 7th
  • Highlights:
    • Multiple stops on Mt Lemmon
    • Nature exploration activities
    • Astronomy tours
    • Telescope viewing

Sky Island Survey

$325 per student
(standard)

$275 per student
(Title I)


  • Program length: 3 days, 2 nights
  • Suggested grades: 5th - 9th
  • Highlights:
    • Multiple stops on Mt Lemmon
    • Student-led inquiry projects
    • Introduction to field work
    • Astronomy tours
    • Telescope viewing
    • Night hike

Flagship Research Program

$460 per student
(standard)

$390 per student
(Title I)


  • Program length: 4 days, 3 nights
  • Suggested grades: 8th - 12th
  • Highlights:
    • Scientific tool skill builders
    • Student-led inquiry projects
    • Advanced field work methods
    • Data analysis
    • Astronomy tours
    • Telescope viewing
    • Night hike

Request more info

register here

 

Summit fees include day and nighttime instruction, all curricular materials, meals, and dormitory lodging at the summit of Mt. Lemmon for the duration of the program. Transportation must be provided by the school.

We charge fees that reflect approximately half of the actual cost of running programs. Through generous private donations we have limited scholarship funding available in cases of need. Please contact us at skyschool@arizona.edu for more information.