A Weeklong Celebration of
Our Legacy in Space
February 14–21
Beyond the Arc & Beyond the Stars
The University of Arizona is known for defying expectations. It shows on defense, in discovery, and in the farthest galaxies. This is more than basketball. More than science. This is a legacy of determination and the pursuit of greatness that defines what it means to be a Wildcat.
#2 in Astronomy & Astrophysics Expenditures
Astronomy & Astrophysics Expenditures
$1 Billion+ FY2024 Research Expenditures
Billion+ FY2024 Research Expenditures
#6 NASA-Funded Activity
NASA-Funded Activity
Events
Galaxy Slam brings Wildcats together – on the court, in the classroom, and beyond the stars. Join us February 14–21, for a weeklong celebration featuring community activities and on-campus events.
Love is Universal
Saturday, February 14, 2026 at Flandrau Science Center & Planetarium
Step off the court and into the nearby planetarium dome, where Wildcat astronomers of tomorrow explore the cosmos.
This date-night-ready event features stargazing, science exhibits with special ambiance, and a live star talk, “Love at First Light”, exploring the U of A’s connection to the James Webb Space Telescope and spotlighting Galaxy Slam scientists. Or, stay later for a laser-light music mix of love songs.
Enter Stellar
February 15–21, 2026 at Flandrau Science Center & Planetarium
Step into the Eos Foundation Planetarium Theatre for an immersive journey through space and science. Enjoy 146 premium seats, stunning 4K full-dome projection, Dolby 5.1 surround sound, and assistive listening technology. Experience breathtaking fulldome films, live star talks, and vibrant Laser Light Music Shows. Check public showtimes or browse the show catalog for private events. Buy tickets online or in person. Popular shows sell out quickly.
Bear Down, Look Up: AI on the Cosmic Court
Monday, February 16, 7:30-8:30pm at Steward Observatory
AI isn't one player, it's a team. Hear from four leading experts and learn how different models play different roles in helping us explore the universe.
College of Science Lecture Series
February 17 2026, 7pm at Centennial Hall
Harnessing the Power of Stars: Shaping the Future of Energy with Fusion Science
Fusion powers the Sun and may soon power Earth. Learn how stellarators, advanced fusion devices, are being optimized through math and computation. Explore recent breakthroughs, challenges, and what's next. Get your free tickets here.
Galaxy Slam Trivia Night at Cork & Craft
Tuesday, February 17, 6-8pm at Cork & Craft in the Student Union Memorial Center
Join Flandrau Science Center & Planetarium and Cork & Craft for Galaxy Slam Trivia, a cosmic-themed trivia night that will test your knowledge of space, stars and the great beyond! Bring a team, challenge your cosmic smarts, and enjoy themed mocktails and prizes while falling in love with the universe!
Galaxy Slam Basketball Game
Wednesday, February 18, 2026 at the McKale Center
BYU vs University of Arizona.
One night. One court. No mercy.
Loud gym. Fast breaks. Hard fouls. Conference pride on the line. Part of the Galaxy Slam series.
Big matchup. Bigger energy. Get ready to stand. Get ready to yell. Get ready to slam!
Worlds of Words Center Exhibit
February 14-21, 2026, at Worlds of Words Center
Before they were shot callers, scientists were kids who dreamed big. Visit Worlds of Words to browse global books igniting your imagination about space and space travel. The display features stellar original art from published picturebook illustrators Julien Chung, Stevie Lewis and S.D. Nelson.
Open to the public 9 a.m.-5 p.m. Mon-Fri, 9 a.m.-1 p.m. Sat. No reservation required.
Arizona’s Impact in Space
In Tucson, basketball is more than a game – it’s a legacy of excellence. But Wildcats also claim another home court: the cosmos. For more than six decades, the University of Arizona has led the search for what lies beyond our Sonoran Desert skies.
Meet Arizona’s All-Star Cosmic Lineup
From stellar discoveries to cutting-edge research, these Wildcats are changing how we see the universe. Check out their work and grab exclusive Galaxy Slam trading cards at upcoming campus events.
A Look That’s Out of This World
Gear up for Galaxy Slam! Score the limited-edition Galaxy Slam merch at the Campus Store and cheer on the Arizona Wildcats as they take on BYU at McKale Stadium on February 18
Join Us on the Court and in the Cosmos
Galaxy Slam is a celebration of the relentless curiosity, competitive spirit, and Wildcat determination that pushes us beyond the expected. Whether you’re cheering from McKale or exploring the universe with our researchers, you are part of the legacy.
