Beyond the Big Sky - Public Stargazing Nights in August

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!

August 7 & 8, 2026 will feature Dr. Kelly Cline. He is a Professor of Mathematics in the Department of Mathematics, Engineering, and Computer Science at Carroll College in Helena, Montana. He teaches undergraduate courses in astronomy, physics, and mathematics. Widely recognized for his engaging and well-attended public lectures, Dr. Cline explores and explains complex topics in astronomy, physics, and mathematics for general audiences. He holds a Ph.D. in Astrophysics from the University of Colorado at Boulder and has served as a visiting lecturer at universities in Scotland and Ireland.

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 10 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.