We decided to take this day to visit the Kitt Peak National Observatory. It is about a 1.5 hour drive from Tucson on highway 86. The observatory is set in quite a dramatic setting. The mountain drive up to the Observatory is very interesting and winding. There are ample pull outs to stop and take photos. There is no charge if you want to visit, and to do the DIY tour. There is a charge for the guided tours. We packed a picnic lunch, and had a picnic at the Observatory.

Kevin at the entrance.

And...

We were lucky to be able to go and view the sun.

 This photograph below is of the solar scope. I loved the shapes.

I took this photo below and converted it to black and white. I thought it looked sought of arty.

and more...

and..

Like I said, very arty!

Afterwards we drove back towards Tucson ending up at the San Xavier del Bac Mission and Church just as the sun was setting illuminating this beautiful church so that it glowed in the desert.

Inside was beauiful...

and look at this gorgeous ceiling...

and this detail...

Amazing.