With a celestial view nothing short of astronomical, it is only natural for Sierra Vista to end up with yet another accolade: the first city in Arizona to limit commercial lighting to just 100 nits (other Arizona communities are two to three times higher!). With clear, dark skies, Sierra Vista is a premier location to observe celestial sights. No telescope? No worries! The Sierra Vista Public Library has an astronomy “discovery pack” to loan, including a telescope, stand, astronomy guide and manual.

Take a free, guided tour of the skies at the Patterson Observatory, located at University of Arizona Sierra Vista. The 20-inch Patterson Telescope brings star clusters, nebulas, and distant galaxies into view. Go to hacastronomy.org for specific viewing dates and times (weather permitting). With advance notice, the observatory complex is available to the public for viewing of celestial objects, as a scientific resource for kindergarten through graduate school and local educators, and as a research instrument for astronomers. Call 800-288-3861 for information or (520) 458-8278, ext. 2129 for reservations.