Beyond the Big Sky – Public Stargazing Nights in June

Spend an evening under the night sky at The Montana Learning Center at Canyon Ferry Lake! The Montana Learning Center’s state-of-the-art astronomical park will be open to the public three weekends this summer. Each event will begin after sunset with a presentation and question and answer session with a guest expert, followed by a tour of the night sky using the Center’s world-class telescopes. Each presentation will be different and is sure to be educational!

June 28 and 29, 2024 will feature Dr. Darci Snowden, who is an Associate Professor of Physics at Central Washington University, specializing in planetary science, with a focus on Saturn’s largest moon, Titan. Previously, she worked as a participating scientist on NASA’s Cassini Mission, an international effort that sent a space probe to study Saturn and its system, including its rings and natural satellites. As the Director of the Northwest Earth and Space Science Pathways (NESSP), a NASA Science Activation Program, she aims to inspire students across Montana and the Northwest to pursue STEM careers through hands-on, NASA-inspired activities. Originally from Missoula, Montana, Dr. Snowden has fond memories of visiting her grandparents’ cabin on Canyon Ferry Lake, not far from the Learning Center’s campus.

Attendance at each event is limited to 100 people and advance ticket purchase is required. Tickets are $25 per adult (age 18 and over) and $15 per child per event. Attendees must be 12 years old or older. Tickets are non-refundable and the events will be held rain or shine, with night-sky observing being weather-permitting. To register or for more information, please visit the event webpage - Beyond the Big Sky.

Montana Learning Center at Canyon Ferry Lake offers youth summer camps in a variety of STEM fields, live and online teacher learning opportunities and a range of astronomy programs for students, teachers and members of the public. The Center boasts a picturesque lakeside setting, which is ideal for exploring Montana’s night sky.