Vermont’s dark rural skies and rolling hills make it an appealing place for anyone who likes looking up. Small towns, easy access to high vantage points, and community-run star parties mean you can often pair a scenic drive with a night of telescope viewing.
There are 5 Observatories in Vermont, ranging from Green Mountain Observatory to Stellafane Observatory. For each entry you’ll find below the columns City, Type, Main telescope aperture (in/cm), so you can quickly compare locations, public access, and the size of the main instrument you’ll see — you’ll find below.
Are any of these observatories open to the public?
Many Vermont observatories offer public nights, seasonal programs, or special events; check each site’s calendar and contact information in the list below, since some require reservations or are limited to members and scheduled outreach.
How should I plan a visit if I want to see more than one observatory?
Map the observatories by city, pick evenings with clear forecasts, and prioritize sites by the telescope aperture or program type you prefer; allow travel time between rural locations and confirm public access before you go.
Observatories in Vermont
| Name | City | Type | Main telescope aperture (in/cm) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Mittelman Observatory | Middlebury | College | 24 in / 61 cm |
| Stellafane Observatory | Springfield | Amateur Club / Historic | 12 in / 30 cm |
| Northern Skies Observatory | Hinesburg | Amateur Club | 16 in / 41 cm |
| McCarthy Arts Center Rooftop Observatory | Colchester | College | 12 in / 30 cm |
| Green Mountain Observatory | West Wardsboro | Amateur Club | 17 in / 43 cm |
Images and Descriptions
Mittelman Observatory
Home to a research-grade telescope at Middlebury College. The observatory hosts public viewing nights during the academic year, offering incredible views and access to knowledgeable staff. Check their website for the public schedule.
Stellafane Observatory
A National Historic Landmark run by the Springfield Telescope Makers. This site is famous for its annual Stellafane Convention and features the unique Porter Turret Telescope. Access is generally limited to club events and the convention.
Northern Skies Observatory
Operated by the Vermont Astronomical Society (VAS), this observatory serves as a hub for local amateur astronomers. The VAS hosts regular public star parties here, providing a fantastic opportunity to look through their large reflector.
McCarthy Arts Center Rooftop Observatory
Located at Saint Michael’s College, this rooftop facility has a permanently mounted telescope. The Physics department hosts free public viewing sessions on clear nights during the fall and spring semesters, making it very accessible.
Green Mountain Observatory
This dark-sky observatory is the home of the Green Mountain Astronomers club. While primarily for member use, the club occasionally hosts public outreach events. It’s a great example of a dedicated amateur astronomy facility.
