Explore Space Science From Impact to Exploration!

Saturday, June 27, 2026

Join us at Meteor Crater and Lowell Observatory for a full day celebrating Asteroid Day, an international event dedicated to learning about asteroids, planetary defense, and the history of impact science.

Asteroid Day commemorates the anniversary of the 1908 Tunguska impact event, the largest asteroid impact recorded in modern history. Each year, scientists, astronauts, and space communicators gather at Meteor Crater to share discoveries, discuss planetary defense, and inspire curiosity about our solar system.

This year’s program will feature NASA astronauts, the Schweickart Prize winner, and renowned science communicator Scott Manley, along with guided crater experiences and special presentations.

Event Schedule

8:00 AM

Doors Open at Meteor Crater
Visitors are welcome to explore the Discovery Center exhibits, observation decks, and enjoy the beginning of Asteroid Day programming.

Morning Activities – Meteor Crater

10:00 AM

Guided Crater Experiences
Throughout the morning, guests will have opportunities to participate in guided experiences around the rim of Meteor Crater, learning about the science, history, and ongoing research connected to this world-famous impact site.

11:00 AM

Schweickart Prize Theater Presentation
Location: Meteor Crater Theater

Apollo 9 astronaut Rusty Schweickart (pending confirmation) joins the 2026 Schweickart Prize winner for a discussion of the winning proposal and the future of planetary defense efforts aimed at protecting Earth from hazardous asteroids.

12:00 PM

Asteroid Update with Scott Manley
Location: Meteor Crater Theater

Science communicator Scott Manley returns to Asteroid Day to share the latest developments in asteroid discovery, planetary defense missions, and current space exploration efforts.

Astronaut Meet & Greet
Location: Meteor Crater

Meet visiting astronauts and space experts during this special opportunity to ask questions, take photos, and learn more about human spaceflight and planetary science.

This session is scheduled to allow guests returning from crater rim experiences to participate.

1:30 PM

Transition to Lowell Observatory – Flagstaff

Asteroid Day programming continues in Flagstaff at Lowell Observatory with additional presentations, science talks, and evening activities celebrating astronomy and planetary science.

Afternoon & Evening Program – Lowell Observatory

Additional talks and presentations from scientists, authors, and space experts will continue the Asteroid Day celebration at Lowell Observatory.

Full Lowell Observatory schedule to be announced.

Info

EVENT INFO

When

June 27, 2026

Where

Meteor Crater & Lowell Observatory

Event Schedule

8:00 am

Doors Open at Meteor Crater

Event Begins!

9:00 am - 12:00 pm

Full-Rim Tour at Meteor Crater

Location: Meet at the Holsinger Meteorite inside the Discovery Center.

Guided Tour around the Crater!
Participants will be led around the rim and learn from our Tour Guides about the history of Meteor Crater

12:00 pm - 1:00 pm

Asteroid Update with Scott Manley

Join science communicator Scott Manley for a fascinating talk about current asteroids research.

1:00 pm - 2:00 pm

Rusty Schweickart and Schweickart Prize Winner Presentation at Meteor Crater

Rusty Schweickart (Apollo 9 Astronaut) and Schweickart Prize Winner

2:00 pm - 3:00 pm

Meteor Crater and the Moon

Bill Sheehan, Space Historian, and Kevin Schindler, Lowell Observatory Historian & Public Information Officer

3:00 pm - 4:00 pm

When Rocks Get Hot

Dr. Qicheng Zhang – Lowell Observatory Astronomer

4:00 pm - 9:00 pm

Evening Activities at Lowell Observatory

5- 6 pm

City of Flagstaff Asteroid Day Proclamation, Flagstaff Mayor Becky Daggett Coconino County Asteroid Day Proclamation, Coconino County Supervisor TBD, Asteroid Update, Scott Manley (Science Communicator)

6 – 7 pm

Rusty Schweickart Prize Ceremony, Rusty Schweickart (Apollo 9 Astronaut), and Schweickart Prize Winner

7 – 8 pm

The Lady Astronaut program and book signing, Mary Robinette Kowal (Author)

8 – 9 pm

Anatomy of a Comet, Dr. Qicheng Zhang (Lowell Observatory Astronomer)

Christi Moose

3 months ago

An Out-of-This-World Experience! If you are traveling through Northern Arizona, Meteor Crater Natural Landmark is an absolute must-see. We spent a fe... Read More

An Out-of-This-World Experience! If you are traveling through Northern Arizona, Meteor Crater Natural Landmark is an absolute must-see. We spent a few hours here and were blown away by how well-maintained and engaging the entire site is. It’s the perfect blend of science, history, and pure awe. Why It’s Great for Families: • Interactive Museum: This isn't just a "look but don't touch" kind of place. The discovery center is packed with hands-on exhibits that explain the impact and the science of meteors in a way that kids actually enjoy. • The 4D Movie: Do not skip this! The 4D experience is thrilling and provides a fantastic "you are there" perspective on the crater’s formation. It really brings the history to life. • Outdoor Play Area: A huge plus for parents! There is a great space for the kids to burn off some energy while you soak in the incredible views of the crater. • The Gift Shop: Surprisingly impressive! They have a massive selection of unique minerals, meteorites, and fun souvenirs that aren't just your standard tourist trinkets. Final Thoughts: The staff is incredibly knowledgeable, and the facilities are top-notch. It’s very kid-friendly and provides a unique educational experience without feeling like a boring classroom. Whether you're a space enthusiast or just looking for a cool pit stop, this is a 5-star destination. Read Less
Michelle Bargett

2 months ago

Meteor crater and museum was interesting and educational. Guided tours are included in price of admission. Easy guided walking tour with multiple stop... Read More

Meteor crater and museum was interesting and educational. Guided tours are included in price of admission. Easy guided walking tour with multiple stops and large rocks to sit on while your guide talks. There also a self guided tour with platforms for taking great photos. The museum inside is interesting and will help pass the time until the next tour starts. There a coffee shop/lounge area that is connected to the gift shop. There is also a 4D movie there but it was closed when I was there. On Saturday they have full hikes around the crater but don't offer it on there day's. They also offer a pet Ramado so if you travel with pets you can check them in to cool fenced-in pen and small dog run that is connected to the car parking lot. There is also place for your motor home or RV. It's a separate parking lot next to car parking lot, just follow the signs. We paid about 28.00 for each adult Read Less
Xander Larson

2 months ago

Meteor Crater was super fascinating and included many different unique experiences. Consider the Following: Natural Beauty: Meteor Crater itself is b... Read More

Meteor Crater was super fascinating and included many different unique experiences. Consider the Following: Natural Beauty: Meteor Crater itself is beautiful and has many different unique features. The surrounding area is covered in land that includes amazing animals and plants! Atmosphere: You can explore the history of Meteor Crater and even watch a documentary about it. You can look closer into the Crater using binoculars and you can buy many amazing souvenirs. Learning: You can get a tour guide as you walk around the trail on the rim of Meteor Crater and learn many fascinating facts about the history, wonders, and features of the landmark. I would definitely recommend you to visit here at least once. It was a very fun experience! Read Less
Hunter Miller

a month ago

It is exactly what they are selling. Massive astronomical/ geological rarity. If you are at all interested interested in that type of stuff, it is wel... Read More

It is exactly what they are selling. Massive astronomical/ geological rarity. If you are at all interested interested in that type of stuff, it is well worth the visit. The museum and tour is really nice. I easily spent several hours here. Super cool. Read Less
WOW ENTERTAINMENT WEDDING DJS & EVENT LIGHTING INC

2 months ago

If you're heading west through Arizona on I-40, take 10 minutes and go see this unbelievable site. This is the best example of a meteor crater anywhe... Read More

If you're heading west through Arizona on I-40, take 10 minutes and go see this unbelievable site. This is the best example of a meteor crater anywhere on Earth. The size of it is hard to imagine but it's a mile across. You could put 20 football fields down in the bottom of it and with stadium seating you could have a million spectators if the crater was a stadium. They have a great visitor center that includes a 10-minute movie. It starts every 30 minutes. Very professionally presented. And immaculate facilities. So glad I stopped by Read Less

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Events At Meteor Crater

Asteroid Day

Join Meteor Crater and Lowell Observatory for A Space Celebration

June 27, 2026

Included with Admission

Meteor Crater & Lowell Observatory

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Explore Space Science From Impact to Exploration!

Event Schedule

8:00 AM

Morning Activities – Meteor Crater

10:00 AM

11:00 AM

12:00 PM

1:30 PM

Afternoon & Evening Program – Lowell Observatory

Info

When

June 27, 2026

Where

Meteor Crater & Lowell Observatory

Event Schedule

8:00 am

Doors Open at Meteor Crater

9:00 am - 12:00 pm

Full-Rim Tour at Meteor Crater

12:00 pm - 1:00 pm

Asteroid Update with Scott Manley

1:00 pm - 2:00 pm

Rusty Schweickart and Schweickart Prize Winner Presentation at Meteor Crater

2:00 pm - 3:00 pm

Meteor Crater and the Moon

3:00 pm - 4:00 pm

When Rocks Get Hot

4:00 pm - 9:00 pm

Evening Activities at Lowell Observatory

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