Have you ever visited an observatory? During a celestial event, they can be great for getting up-close and personal with the stars and the sky. And we have a couple of them right here in Montana.

The Blue Mountain Observatory happens to be owned and operated by the University of Montana. And while the site is mostly used by staff and students, they do open it for the public in the summer when it’s most accessible.

The Blue Mountain Observatory is located at the top of Blue Mountain at an elevation of 6,300 feet.

Blue Mountain Observatory / Facebook Blue Mountain is the western landmark of the city of Missoula, and it’s a popular spot for year-round recreation.

The observatory was constructed in 1970, and since then, it has served as the university’s telescope training ground for astronomy students.

Blue Mountain Observatory / Facebook It has also been used as a platform for students to share their celestial sightings with the public.

Before summer’s arrival, the university announces the dates for the observatory’s season.

Blue Mountain Observatory / Facebook Astronomers from UM and the Western Montana Astronomical Association will guide visitors in viewing the night sky through telescopes, point out constellations, and show attendees how to find interesting celestial objects, both with the naked eye and binoculars.

Depending on when you visit, you might see shooting stars, planets, nebulas, and distant galaxies.

Blue Mountain Observatory / Facebook The events are only $7 per person, and they’re all family-friendly. Attendance is limited, so get your tickets as early as you can.

The observatory’s season is short, but there’s a lot to see and learn.

Blue Mountain Observatory / Facebook If you love stargazing and you’re curious about astronomy, save some time this summer for visiting.

The Blue Mountain Observatory is delightful, and we appreciate having it here in the Treasure State.

Blue Mountain Observatory / Facebook This year’s lineup will be announced soon, so plan accordingly.

Have you ever been to an observatory? Montana’s night sky through the eyes of a telescope is indescribable.

Blue Mountain Observatory / Facebook

Blue Mountain is the western landmark of the city of Missoula, and it’s a popular spot for year-round recreation.

It has also been used as a platform for students to share their celestial sightings with the public.

Astronomers from UM and the Western Montana Astronomical Association will guide visitors in viewing the night sky through telescopes, point out constellations, and show attendees how to find interesting celestial objects, both with the naked eye and binoculars.

The events are only $7 per person, and they’re all family-friendly. Attendance is limited, so get your tickets as early as you can.

If you love stargazing and you’re curious about astronomy, save some time this summer for visiting.

This year’s lineup will be announced soon, so plan accordingly.

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Address: Blue Mountain Observatory, Forest Rd 19247, Lolo, MT 59847, USA