This summer and fall, come see the cosmos in a way few ever experience! Montana Learning Center at Canyon Ferry Lake will be opening the doors to its world-class astronomical park — the largest public-access observatory in the Northwestern United States — once each month from June through September for four unforgettable weekends of stargazing, exploration, and discovery.

“Beyond the Big Sky” isn’t just a stargazing event — it’s a journey through the universe guided by some of the most respected names in astronomy. Each evening features a guest astronomer, a live presentation with a Q&A, and up-close views of the cosmos through Montana’s largest public-access telescope. Each night’s presentation is different and created just for event attendees. From galaxies to deep-sky nebulae, this is your front-row seat to the universe.

2025 Event Dates & Featured Speakers:

• June 27 & 28 — James Manning, former Executive Director of the Astronomical Society of the Pacific and Hubble Space Telescope outreach lead