The USGS Campus in Flagstaff, Arizona

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The USGS Flagstaff Science Center was established by the Astrogeology Research Program (called the Branch of Astrogeology at the time) in 1963 to provide lunar geologic mapping and assist in training astronauts destined for the Moon. Building 1 was constructed northeast of downtown Flagstaff on McMillan Mesa. There were a number of important factors in choosing Flagstaff as a location for the field center. For instance, the excellent atmospheric conditions for astronomical observations of the Moon led to the establishment of a USGS program of telescopic lunar geologic mapping in association with Flagstaff's Lowell Observatory. A telescope was built here specifically to support a USGS program of lunar geologic mapping in addition to the topographic maps of the Moon that were being made at Flagstaff's Lowell Observatory. Another important factor was Flagstaff's location near volcanic craters, Meteor Crater, and the Grand Canyon, which provide natural laboratories for field studies and astronaut training on terrains similar to the surface of the Moon.

The USGS Flagstaff Science Center has since thrived, in part due to its central location to many fascinating fields of study, such as the Grand Canyon, the San Francisco Volcanic Field, and Colorado Plateau. In addition to the Astrogeology Research Program, teams from every USGS Discipline have made Flagstaff their home.

Much of the Science Center's success can be attributed to the Flagstaff lifestyle the staff here enjoys. Combining the fantastic location with USGS benefits, such as flexible work schedules, makes the Flagstaff Science Center an unbeatable place to work. For example:

• Short, Easy Commutes: Almost none of the Astrogeology staff commute more than 20 minutes. As a matter of fact, most of the staff live within a 10 minute drive of the Science Center. Many who wish to live in more rural areas, such as Doney Park or Kachina Village, have chosen a slightly longer commute of 15 to 30 minutes to enjoy the benefits of country living. Traffic is practically a non-issue in Flagstaff; traffic jams are unknown except rare stoppages caused by accidents or construction. As a result, many staff members are able to walk or bicycle to work, and the city public bus system has a stop at the edge of the campus.
• Fantastic campus location: The Science Center is located on Switzer Mesa, and is surrounded by greenspace. To the north is Buffalo Park, a 215 acre city recreation area, and beyond that the Coconino National Forest and the San Francisco Peaks, giving the Science Center one of the best views in the area. During breaks, many staff members walk or jog in Buffalo Park and the Flagstaff Urban Trail System (PDF, 1.7MB), play frisbee golf in the McPherson Disk Golf Course adjacent to the campus, or just relax around campus in one of the outdoor seating areas. Google Maps - Satellite view of the USGS Flagstaff Science Center campus
• Casual, relaxed atmosphere: Far from the hustle and bustle of big cities, smog, traffic jams, and business suits, Flagstaff's casual and friendly nature fosters a low-stress, comfortable work environment where our folks can concentrate on their research and projects. Casual dress codes, ususally jeans and t-shirts both at work and in Flagstaff's poshest restaurants, along with flexible work schedules and vacation time, a beautiful setting, and a fantastic and diverse community, makes working and living here a pleasure.

To learn more about our workplace and benefits, see the Shoemaker Center for Astrogeology and Careers and Jobs in the USGS Astrgeology Research Program pages.

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