Flandrau Turns 50
Science Center and Planetarium a Community Cornerstone
By Christy Krueger
The University of Arizona has a treasure on campus, and this winter marks its 50th anniversary.
Flandrau Science Center and Planetarium began as a dream in the 1960s by a group of UA scientists, including highly renowned scientist Gerard Kuiper.
Often considered the father of modern planetary science, Kuiper created the moon atlas for the Apollo moon landings. His vision moved forward in 1972 with a donation from the estate of Grace H. Flandrau, a push from then-UA President John Schaefer, and approval by the Arizona Board of Regents. Construction was completed in 1975.
Opened as part of the astronomy department, Flandrau provided a facility for instruction to university students—and primary and secondary students—as well as a public theater and exhibit spaces for planetarium programs and the performing arts.
In 2013, with support from private foundations and the College of Science, Flandrau began a structural and technological “full dome” renovation. Since then, the two have enjoyed a mutually beneficial relationship. In fact, one priority in the development of Flandrau exhibits is to highlight research at the College of Science.
“The average person can’t go into a lab, but they can learn about UA’s research at Flandrau Science Center,” said Michael Luria, assistant dean of community engagement at the College of Science. “There are opportunities to come in and learn about science in general and about the science happening on campus.”
Added Kellee Campbell, executive director of Flandrau, “There is a list of groundbreaking research at UA and we want to present it to the community.”
She cited the example of the James Webb Space Telescope—the largest telescope in space—which has a replica model currently on exhibit in Flandrau.
“Also, we were the first to show images of the black hole, and we captured images of it on the dome in the planetarium. Flandrau has been the cornerstone of the community for five decades – a place where people can come and explore science in a fun and engaging way,” said Campbell.
The engagement and educational outreach is particularly beneficial to children throughout the community, according to Luria.
“One thing we’re proud of is providing so many opportunities for kids,” Luria stated. “For many, it is their first experience on campus. School tours are often given by UA undergraduates, and the kids see themselves studying science.”
As dean of UA’s College of Science, Carmala Garzione sees an expanded view of Flandrau’s relationship with campus and the Tucson area. “Museums and planetariums are wonderful vehicles for sharing the world of science with the community and offering the chance to experiment with exhibits. And it’s entertainment – star shows, laser light shows – so people can learn, play and have fun.”
According to Garzione, a big part of advancing science is educating the public about the work that scientists are doing.
Our faculty talk about their work in connection with Flandrau exhibits. The museum advances its science by allowing people to understand work being done here and it engages people in the exhibits. It gives people a chance to be a scientist and they can appreciate the work of scientists. Flandrau is one of our gems for locals and visitors, for entertainment and curiosity.”
School kids and the general public aren’t the only members of the community who reap the benefits of Flandrau and its programs. Garzione, who has a master’s degree and Ph.D. in geosciences from UA, emphasizes the importance of giving UA undergraduate students the opportunity to work at Flandrau.
“We believe it’s an important part of training students and supporting their engagement with the local community. They earn money and it’s important to help students financially.”
In recent years, Flandrau has undergone extensive renovations, including expanded space for workshops and other educational outreach.
“During COVID, we remodeled and replaced all the carpet, lighting and paint,” Luria said. “Since COVID, we’ve been introducing new exhibits and multipurpose spaces.”
Among the new offerings are “Mysteries of the Cosmos.” Scheduled to open in spring 2026, it offers visitors opportunities to learn about the wonders of space with hands-on encounters and experiences.
The community can also celebrate Flandrau’s 50th Anniversary with a slate of special events throughout spring 2026, including a temporary “History of Flandrau” exhibit that showcases five decades of discoveries, innovation and community connections.
Photo – courtesy Flandrau Science Center and Planetarium
