The Gift of a Lifetime: Grace H. Flandrau’s Estate Gift Funds Planetarium

Flandrau Science Center & Planetarium got its start with a 1972 bequest from the estate of Grace H. Flandrau, noted author and frequent winter visitor to Tucson. The University decided to use the generous gift to fund a facility that would increase public understanding and appreciation of science.

Originally known as The Grace H. Flandrau Planetarium, the facility was part of the UA Department of Astronomy. Its location on campus near the Astronomy Department, the Optical Sciences Center, the Lunar and Planetary Laboratory, and historic Steward Observatory, reflects its continuing connections to the research community.

The Planetarium was designed by Tucson architectural firm Blanton and Company and opened its doors to the public in 1975.