Move through forests, deserts, and oceans—without leaving Arizona.
University of Arizona’s Biosphere 2 is a Living Lab where every step reveals something new, whether you’re sharing it with loved ones or taking time to explore on your own.
Discover the world within our walls.
Plan your visit and get tickets today!
Welcome to Biosphere 2.
This unique research center is dedicated to understanding how Earth’s ecosystems function—and how we can build a more resilient future for our planet and for life beyond it.
Today, as part of the University of Arizona, Biosphere 2 advances interdisciplinary science, education, and innovation. Our mission is to study natural and human-made ecosystems through integrated research that drives the discovery of solutions supporting the resilience of environmental systems and human quality of life. From the rainforest and ocean biomes to the Landscape Evolution Observatory, our facility enables experiments that can’t be done anywhere else in the world.
The story of Biosphere 2 includes one of the most ambitious ecological experiments ever attempted. Built in the 1980s by Space Biospheres Ventures, the facility became internationally known for two sealed missions between 1991 and 1994, when teams of “Biospherians” lived inside the enclosure to explore long-duration closed ecological systems. Their work continues to inform ecological science, natural systems research, and concepts for future space habitats.
Since 2011, the University of Arizona—supported by the Philecology Foundation and major research grants—has carried this legacy forward, transforming Biosphere 2 into a global hub for environmental and Earth systems research.
Today, Biosphere 2 remains what it has always been: a place for big ideas, bold experiments, and new possibilities.
We’re glad you’re here.
Meet the University of Arizona students, Madalyn van Asselt and Maisy O’Neill, who have been trekking deep into the Biosphere 2 Rainforest to help scientists understand how ecosystems cycle trace gases.
Armed with LI-COR trace-gas analyzers—tools normally used in major field expeditions—they’re measuring methane, carbon dioxide, and nitrous oxide coming from soils, roots, and standing water. These gases play a huge role in how forests store and release carbon, but they’re notoriously hard to measure in complex environments.
By collecting high-resolution flux data across the rainforest, these students are helping researchers map where these trace gases originate and how/why they move through an ecosystem. Their work will support everything from tree physiology and forest modeling to future conservation strategies—and it’s giving them hands-on experience that most students don’t get until graduate school (or beyond).
This is what learning looks like at the University of Arizona: curious minds, real research, and a rainforest full of stories waiting to be uncovered.
#Biosphere2 #UArizona #UndergraduateResearch #RainforestScience #WomenInSTEM #HandsOnScience
Pineapple update! The pineapples are growing really well! The peak time for pineapple harvest is between March to July. It looks like we will have to wait awhile until these are ready to harvest.
#biosphere2 #biosphere2food #biosphere2savanna
As temperatures rise, staying protected from the heat is essential when visiting Biosphere 2. One great way to do that? Take a cue from the sea urchins these clever creatures pile shells and rocks on top of themselves not only to ward off predators, but also to shield themselves from harsh UV rays. We say it’s time to borrow a page from their playbook wear a hat and sun protective clothing on your next visit to Biosphere 2. If it works for a sea urchin it’ll work for you!
#biosphere2 #biosphere2ocean #oceanreef
The freight farm is a hydroponic system that grows plants in nutrient rich water instead of soil. This allows us to grow 2.5 acres of traditional farm land in just 320 square feet! In the past we have been able to produce 350 heads of lettuce that we have donated to food pantries in our local community.
#biosphere2 #biosphere2food #freightfarms
The Madagascar palm is thriving in the Upper Savanna. This drought tolerant plant loves full sun or partial shade and warmer temperatures. The Madagascar typically blooms in late spring to early summer.
#biosphere2 #biosphere2savanna #biosphere2flower #biosphere2plants
The Sonoyta pupfish can live in low oxygen waters. They can also live in water that reaches 105 degrees Farenhight! Though the pupfish population is low we are very excited to house the Sonoyta pup fish and we hope their populations continue rise in their new home.
#biosphere2 #biosphere2desert #desertfish #desertecology
Our indigo plant has been producing seed pods. We’ve been collecting these seeds so we can grow even more indigenous indigo plants. Indigo, is the plant used to dye denim that classic blue color! The dye itself comes from the leaves of the plant. To create it, the harvested leaves are soaked in water and left to ferment. When the dyed fabric is lifted from the liquid and exposed to air, oxidation occurs this is what transforms the color into the deep blue we all recognize in denim. Oxidation is a crucial step in the dyeing process.
#biosphere2 #biosphere2desert #biosphere2plants #biosphere2flower
The air plant in the mangroves are thriving! These fascinating plants are unique because they don’t need soil to survive. Airplants are able to absorb all the nutrients they need from water and the air through tiny hairs on their leaves called trichomes.
#biosphere2 #biosphere2mangrove #biosphere2plants
Looking to get in touch with your outdoorsy side come join us on our Birding Nature Walk. Join our team of nature enthusiasts on a half mile walk along the Biosphere 2 grounds. During this tour you will have the opportunity to observe both native and migratory bird species. The route includes some uneven terrain and slight elevation changes. While our primary focus is on the birds, we will also explore the unique geology of the Santa Catalina foothills and identify some of the native plants that provide food and shelter for our local wildlife. Come join us on the Birding Nature Walk and experience moments like this for yourself.
#biosphere2 #desert #desertbirds #desertecology
The pink peacock flower is a striking beauty in the desert biome. While these vibrant shrubs are most commonly seen in red, they can bloom in a variety of colors including this stunning pink. Thriving in full sunlight, peacock flowers are an excellent way to add bold color to your garden. Even better, they attract hummingbirds, butterflies, and bees so by planting one, you’re not just enhancing your space, you’re also supporting local pollinators.
#biosphere2 #biosphere2flower #biosphere2desert #desertflowers
