Astronomy Programs
Reserve A Telescope
Beyond the Big Sky
WEATHER
Fantastic Night Programs
Our astronomy programs give stargazers an inside look at the beautiful skies above Canyon Ferry Lake. We offer group and individual programs.
Beyond the Big Sky
Explore the universe at Montana’s largest observatory of its kind, where state-of-the-art telescopes bring the wonders of the night sky within reach. Join our public stargazing series, held one weekend during each summer month.
An excited group with our 32″ Telescope
Create Your Own Star Party
Discover the wonders of Montana’s breathtaking night sky with our exclusive “Create Your Own Star Party” program. From May to October (weather and availability permitting), you and up to nine guests can enjoy a 90-minute private stargazing experience with MLC’s Executive Director as your guide.
Using our state-of-the-art 32” aperture telescope—the largest telescope of its kind in Montana—you’ll explore the cosmos like never before. Whether you’re a seasoned stargazer or new to astronomy, this customized tour will leave you in awe.
✨ Highlights of Your Star Party:
- Private use of our 32” telescope for your group.
- A tailored celestial tour based on your interests.
- Expert guidance from MLC’s Executive Director, a nationally recognized astronomy educator.
If you’ve never looked through a high-quality telescope, prepare to be amazed by the clarity and detail of distant stars, planets, and galaxies.
💫 Price: $500 per evening
Book your star-filled adventure today and experience the magic of Montana’s dark skies like never before!
Local Weather, All-Sky Cam, and Clear Sky Predictions
Our campus features a state-of-the-art weather station and an all-sky camera, providing real-time local weather updates and 24/7 near-live sky views.
Access the latest Sky Report for optimal night sky viewing, along with these resources, at the link below.
MLC Campus Observatories
Situated on the shores of Canyon Ferry Lake we are grateful for the dark skies that blanket the Montana Learning Center Campus. Each of the three observatories that form the Mike and Lynn Rice Astronomical Park for Science and the Arts is designed to explore a different facet of the sky. Learn more about our telescopes and offerings by clicking the link below.
The Robotic Telescope scanning the night skies
Experience Montana’s Dark Skies Anywhere
MLC’s portable planetarium brings the awe of Montana’s starry skies to your community. Perfect for gymnasiums or large indoor spaces, this immersive digital experience accommodates 25+ participants and showcases the night sky visible in Montana at the time of your event.
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