The University of Arizona: Richard F. Caris Mirror Lab Tour

Explore the cutting-edge of astronomical innovation on this 90-minute guided tour of the Richard F. Caris Mirror Lab at the University of Arizona. Learn how pioneering engineering, optical science, and precision manufacturing come together to create the world’s largest and most advanced telescope mirrors—each 8.4 meters (27 feet) in diameter. Located beneath the U of A’s football stadium, the Mirror Lab is the birthplace of mirrors for the Giant Magellan Telescope, a revolutionary new instrument with a 25-meter primary mirror composed of seven of our 8.4-meter segments. This next generation of telescopes will transform astronomy—probing the early universe, revealing the formation of the first stars, and potentially detecting signs of life on distant exoplanets. The tour begins at the historic Steward Observatory, U of A’s first research department, established in 1917. After an introductory presentation in our iconic white-brick dome, we’ll walk to the Mirror Lab for an up-close look at the unique processes involved—from melting glass to precision polishing and optical testing. Join us and discover how the University of Arizona is shaping the future of space exploration and astronomical discovery.