Observatories in Montana: The Complete List

Montana’s wide-open skies and low light pollution make it an ideal place to look up — from backyard stargazing to purpose-built observatories scattered across the state. Whether you’re planning a night out with a telescope or researching sites for a visit, the variety of facilities reflects both remote dark-sky parks and small community observatories.

There are 10 Observatories in Montana, ranging from Brush Lake State Park Observatory to Wildhorse Observatory. For each site you’ll find below the data organized with Location,Main telescope aperture (cm),Public access; you’ll find below.

Can visitors attend public viewing nights at these observatories?

Public access varies by site: some observatories host regular public nights or seasonal events, while others are available only by appointment or to members. Check each observatory’s website or contact them directly for schedules, fees, and weather-related changes before you go.

How large are the main telescopes at Montana observatories?

Telescope sizes differ widely — many community observatories use 20–60 cm instruments, while larger research or park observatories may have scopes 80 cm or bigger; the “Main telescope aperture (cm)” column below gives the specific aperture for each site so you can compare.

Observatories in Montana

Images and Descriptions

Montana Learning Center Observatory

Home to one of the largest public telescopes in the US, this state-of-the-art facility near Canyon Ferry Lake offers incredible views of the cosmos. The center provides public programs, star parties, and educational events for all ages.

St. Mary Observatory

Located just outside Glacier National Park, this observatory boasts a powerful 20-inch telescope. It offers fantastic public stargazing programs under some of the darkest skies in the country during its summer operating season.

Wildhorse Observatory

A well-documented private facility dedicated to advanced astronomical imaging and research. While not open to the public, it represents a significant, privately operated astronomical site in Montana’s Bitterroot Valley contributing stunning astrophotography.

MSU Campus Observatory

Situated on the MSU campus and operated with the Southwest Montana Astronomical Society, this observatory provides public viewing nights. Its 16-inch telescope offers great views of planets and deep-sky objects from right in town.

UM Star Gazing Room

Found atop a building on the University of Montana campus, this unique facility hosts two large telescopes. The Astronomy Department holds free public viewing sessions on clear Friday nights during the academic year, offering great city views of the sky.

Lone Pine State Park Observatory

Operated by the Big Sky Astronomy Club within Lone Pine State Park, this roll-off roof observatory is a hub for public outreach. The club hosts regular star parties, making it a great place for families to explore the night sky.

Pinter Observatory

Maintained by the Central Montana Astronomical Society, this observatory is nestled in the Judith Mountains. While primarily for club members, they often host public star parties, sharing their dark sky location with the community.

Star Garden Observatory

The observing site for the Southwest Montana Astronomical Society, this facility features a roll-off roof building under dark rural skies. The club uses it for member observing and hosts occasional public events for stargazing.

Brush Lake State Park Observatory

A partnership between the state park and local astronomers in Montana’s far northeast corner. This roll-off roof observatory offers public programs during the summer, taking advantage of the area’s exceptionally dark skies.

Hellgate High School Observatory

Perched atop Hellgate High School, this dome observatory serves as a fantastic educational tool for students. It sometimes opens for public viewing events in coordination with local astronomy groups, offering a unique urban stargazing opportunity.