Historic Route 66
Lowell Observatory, AZ
The only planet to be discovered in the U.S., Pluto was discovered at Lowell. This working observatory was founded by Percival Lowell in 1894 for the purpose of mapping the canals and geographical features of Mars. Astronomy enthusiasts from all over the world visit Lowell to gaze through the Clark Telescope, the telescope that was used in the discovery of Pluto in 1930, and explore hundreds of artifacts on display throughout the extensive beautiful mountain Observatory campus.
Photo Credits
- Public domain. Photo by Leslie Connell
Quick Facts
- Location:
Lowell Observatory is located one mile west of the Flagstaff Visitor Center, which is in the historic train depot in the center of Flagstaff. Head west to City Hall on Route 66 which then becomes Santa Fe Avenue which then quickly turns to Mars Hill Road. Continue on Mars Hill Road to the Observatory campus.
- N 35.202° W 111.665° [?]
- Hours of Operation:
Open daily, except major holidays. Daytime - Mar-Oct: 9 a.m.-5 p.m. Nov-Feb: noon-5 p.m. Evening - Jun-Aug: Mon-Sat 8 p.m. Sept-May: Wed, Fri 7:30 p
Local Information
- Lowell Observatory:
- Official website for the Lowell Observatory, with information about Lowell, the research involved and stories about Lowell.
