The 20.5-foot domed observatory will feature the largest telescope in the Greater Phoenix area, a 27.5-inch (.7 meter) PlaneWave telescope with fused silica optics designed for public viewing, research, live broadcasts, and astrophotography.

The lobby can handle multiple groups arriving for tours during the day or a large reception at night. The space can hold up to 100 people seated at tables for a dinner event or conference. The beautiful and inspirational surroundings are part of the experience for these events.

The gift shop will offer thoughtfully curated merchandise related to astronomy, space, and dark skies. It will be a go-to shopping location for residents and visitors alike. It will also feature one-of-a-kind handicrafts from local artisans.

Vending machines will offer snacks, beverages, and light lunches such as sandwiches. Visitors can take a break and enjoy indoor and outdoor seating options.

This 1,500-square-foot space is multi-functional for daytime and nighttime use. During the day, it serves as an extension of the Pluto Snack Station and offers solar viewing with a specialized telescope. At night, portable telescopes will be available for viewing various celestial objects before going inside to experience the largest telescope in the Greater Phoenix area. This private outdoor area also offers an intimate gathering space for weddings, receptions, and other small groups.

This area will have 900 square feet dedicated to experiential hands-on displays and creative learning experiences and challenges. One focus will be the physics of light. The room can also accommodate up to 40 for classes, astronomy camps, or even special gatherings or birthday parties.

The 66-seat planetarium uses the latest projection technology to deliver laser-sharp images on the 39-foot (12-meter) diameter, tilted dome.

The multi-use Inspiration Theater will fully engage guests with a wide range of professional productions. Special presentations, lectures, documentary showings, and educational videos will be supported by the latest projection technology and surround sound systems. This acoustically controlled environment with approximately 150 tiered seats will be an ideal venue for supporting many educational goals of the IDSDC.

Unique in the world will be the Night Sky Experience, an exhibit hall focused on understanding the relationships between dark skies and life on earth. Displays will inspire visitors of all ages.