Buildings at Robert L. Duffy High School in Phoenix are painted like planets. Photo Credit: Sam Lowe

PHOENIX – The Robert L. Duffy High School takes academic architecture all the way to the outer limits of the universe. The small campus downtown (2550 E. Jefferson) is eye-catching because all four buildings are large monolithic structures with domes painted to look like the planets of Earth, Neptune, Saturn and Jupiter.

Despite their unusual exteriors, all four function as regular classrooms. Each building is totally solar-powered and equipped with the latest technology, Also, the 25,000-square-foot parking lot is covered with a solar-reflective green substance that substantially reduces summer heat.

The school, which offers both core curriculum and career-focused classes, was built in 2010 and has room for 240 students. And, of course, the student athletic teams are nicknamed the Comets.