Science at Sunset: Mighty Monsoons

Science at Sunset graphic

Saturday, August 26th
1601 E University Blvd.
6PM to 10PM

Discover the cool science happening in our hot desert in our new summer series! Our next event is August 26, entitled “Mighty Monsoons".

Join us for an evening of planetarium shows, science exhibits, and a special presentation in the planetarium theater with UArizona Climate Science Specialist and Environmental Science Professor Michael Crimmins.

Learn more in the Schedule of Events section below.

Science at Sunset tickets

Schedule of Events


Flandrau staff in exhibit hall
6 to 10PM - Science Exhibits Open

Explore the marvels of the universe from the bottom of the ocean to the edge of our solar system with Flandrau's science exhibits.

  • $5 per person during the event
  • Included with advance purchase of all-inclusive ticket
  • Same-day admission for exhibits will still be available if all shows sell out.
Micheal Crimmins

6:30PM - Southeast Arizona and the Summer Monsoon

Michael Crimmins, UArizona Climate Science Specialist and Environmental Science Professor - This presentation will explore one of the most unique and interesting climate features of southern Arizona: the summer monsoon. This season brings critically important precipitation to the region as well as a break from the early summer heat. The monsoon that southern Arizona experiences is part of the continent-spanning North American Monsoon System and is subject to small deviations that can create bursts or breaks in activity throughout the season. Explore the mechanics of the monsoon and how the season has varied over time and space.

  • SOLD OUT
  • $5 per person during the event (subject to availability)
  • Included with advance purchase of all-inclusive ticket
Telescopes on the UA Mall

8 to 10PM - Telescope Viewing (weather permitting)

Take a break outside to peek through telescopes at points of interest in the night sky. Telescopes will be available for viewing on the lawn in front of Flandrau from 8-10PM.

  • Free for everyone
  • Subject to weather
Scene from Climate Change in our Backyard

8:30PM - Climate Change in Our Backyard (planetarium show)

As we develop a much larger picture about our Earth as a whole, we are coming to see it as a complex, interconnected, remarkable world, and one that humans have impacted directly. Climate Change in Our Backyard illuminates the story of how and why our climate is changing. From the remote mountain shack in the Colorado Rockies, through ancient bubbles in Antarctic ice, and into our own homes.

  • SOLD OUT
  • $5 per person during the event (subject to availability)
  • Included with advance purchase of all-inclusive ticket
Star field

9:30PM - Tucson Sky (live planetarium star talk)

Take a relaxing look at the night sky as we give you a guided tour of the stars, planets, constellations, and current astronomical events above Tucson. This live star talk is constantly changing!

  • SOLD OUT
  • $5 per person during the event (subject to availability)
  • Included with advance purchase of all-inclusive ticket

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