Venue
The workshop will take place at the large conference room in the Grand Challenges Research Building, University of Arizona, Tucson, Arizona, USA. This venue is within walking distance from Steward Observatory and NOIRLab.
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Accommodation
The workshop has secured special rates at the Graduate Hotel, located within a 15-minute walk from the venue, for participants who book their stay by February 10, 2026. To book a room at this special rate see this link.
Other nearby options include Aloft and the Tucson Marriot University Park. For more budget-friendly options see Airbnb's.
Due to the popularity of this region in March, when the weather is perfect for hiking and exploring the surrounding nature, we advise you to book your accommodations early.
Arriving at Tucson
Tucson International Airport (TUS): Tucson has its own international airport, which is conveniently located 8 miles from the University, with easy access to campus and nearby hotels via relatively cheap Ubers.
Phoenix Sky Harbor International Airport (PHX): If you didn't manage to find a convenient flight to Tucson, you can arrive in Arizona via the larger airport located in Phoenix. There are limited transportation options between Phoenix and Tucson; however, guests may pre-book a shuttle via GROOME transportation. You will be dropped off at the central station, where you can take an Uber to your hotel, or you may choose to pay extra for the shuttle to drop you off directly at your destination.
Conference Dinner & Mirror Lab Tour
Conference dinner: We are planning a conference dinner on Thursday, March 12 at BACIO at 18:30, which is a 3-minute walk from the Graduate Hotel. The cost of the dinner is $50 per person, and tickets must be purchased ahead of time in this link.
Mirror Lab Tour: We are offering an optional tour of the Steward Observatory Mirror Lab, where you can learn how some of the world's largest telescope mirrors are produced. The lab is located on campus. Possible times are Thursday, March 12, at 16:00 or Monday, March 9 at 15:00 (if you arrive day earlier).
You can purchase discounted $20 tickets for the tour in this link. If both tours fill-up, we will open additional tours if there is sufficient interest.
Restaurants
There are several restaurants around campus, but there is more variety in the downtown area.
Food court on campus: has a variety of fast food restaurants. See location here.
Around Campus/On the tram line: Cork and Craft (student restaurant), Turkish Kebab House (Mediterranean food), BACIO (Italian food), Time Market ('Tucson's Original Bodega'), BOCA (Mexican food), Agave House (Mexican food), Opa's Grill (Greek food), Chela's Latin Cuisine (Latin American food)
Short Uber ride (but worth it): Polish Cottage (Eastern European food), Jun Dynasty (Chinese food), First Watch (diner), Tumerico (vegan Mexican food)
Things to do in Tucson and the Area
If you have some extra time in Tucson, you could explore the amazing nature surrounding the city.
Saguaro Natural Park: Explore the iconic giant cacti of the Sonoran Desert, with scenic drives and hiking trails on both the East (Rincon Mountain District) and West (Tucson Mountain District) sides. Saguaro National Park is located about half an hour drive from Steward Observatory.
Arizona-Sonora Desert Museum: Part zoo, part botanical garden, part natural history museum, the Desert Museum gives an immersive introduction to the desert ecosystem. It is located about half an hour drive from Steward Observatory.
Mount Lemmon: A scenic drive up the Catalina Highway takes you from desert to pine forests, picnic areas, mountain views and hiking trails designed to explore the changing landscapes. Located about an hour drive from Steward Observatory.
Kitt Peak Observatory: Located on the mountains, a 1:30 drive from Tucson. Kitt peak has a visitor center and offers daytime and nighttime guided tours. If you are interested, it is recommended to purchase the tickets a couple of weeks in advance.
If you prefer indoor activities, you could explore the variety of museums and galleries that Tucson has to offer.
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