Public Access and Tours

You are welcome to walk the grounds of APO during daylight hours (7am - 5pm), 7-days a week. The observatory is a privately-owned research facility and access to the buildings and telescopes is limited only to authorized personnel.

Guided tours of the 3.5m and 2.5m telescopes at APO may be available for astronomical organizations, school groups, and higher education research groups. We are unable to offer daily tours or general access to the public.

Tours are strictly by appointment only. Please submit your tour request at least two weeks in advance. We will let you know whether or not your tour has been approved no later than 48 hours prior to the tour date requested. Tour groups are limited to approximately 15 people; larger groups can be accommodated by splitting the group into two or more tours. To request a tour or for more information, please contact Beth Mitchell, (575) 437-6822.

For self-guided tours of the grounds at APO, be sure to wear appropriate clothing for the cooler temperatures at this elevation (9,250 feet), even in summer. Also, be aware of the symptoms for Altitude Illness and bring plenty of water to drink as there is no water available for the public at APO.

APO has displays and souvenirs at the Sunspot Astronomy and Visitor Center, located 2 miles from our site at the National Solar Observatory. We encourage you to visit this Center which offers a variety of interactive exhibits and displays, as well as self-guided walking tours of the telescopes at NSO. Operating hours of the Center vary so please call the Center at (575) 434-7190 to plan your trip. Picnic and restroom facilities for small and large groups, and a gift shop are also available at the Center.

Map to site.

Revised August 19, 2015/ewm