Beyond the Big Sky - Public Stargazing Nights in September

Experience the Wonders of the Night Sky at the Montana Learning Center!

Join us for an unforgettable evening under the stars at the Montana Learning Center at Canyon Ferry Lake! This summer, our state-of-the-art astronomical park will be open to the public for three exclusive weekends. Each event begins after sunset with a captivating presentation and Q&A session led by a guest expert, followed by a guided tour of the night sky using our world-class telescopes. Each evening will feature a unique topic and promises to be both educational and inspiring.

Mike Murray is the Manager and Resident Astronomer at the Delta College Planetarium in Bay City, Michigan. He is also the voice behind The Backyard Astronomer on NPR, where he shares insights on celestial events and highlights night sky objects visible to the naked eye.

With a career spanning multiple planetariums across the U.S., Mike has brought the wonders of astronomy to countless audiences. His past roles include serving at the Taylor Planetarium at the Museum of the Rockies in Bozeman, Montana. He also held the position of Assistant Director of the NASA-funded Montana Space Grant Consortium at Montana State University, where he led the development and management of Education and Public Outreach programs.

Mike’s passion for making astronomy accessible and engaging shines through in everything he does.

• Time: Begins after sunset
• Capacity: Limited to 100 attendees per event
• Tickets: $25/adult (18+), $15/child (ages 12–17)
• Note: Attendees must be 12 or older. Tickets are non-refundable. Events are held rain or shine, with telescope viewing subject to weather.

To register or learn more, visit our event page: Beyond the Big Sky.

The Montana Learning Center offers youth STEM camps, teacher professional development (in-person and online), and engaging astronomy programs for students, educators, and the public. Nestled on the shores of scenic Canyon Ferry Lake, the Center provides a stunning backdrop for exploring Montana’s breathtaking night skies.