OUTREACH
The Blue Mountain Observatory |
Since 1990, the University of Montana has opened the Blue Mountain Observatory to individuals, families, and school groups outside of the university community. Faculty and students from the University's Department of Physics and Astronomy share their passion for exploring the universe as they lead visitors through telescopic, binocular, and visual tours of the night sky. Bring your curiosity, your questions, and binoculars, if you have them! All ages are welcome. Public Nights: Public nights at the Blue Mountain Observatory are free and open to all, but you must provide your own transportation to the top of the mountain. (The Blue Mountain Road is passable to even low clearance cars, but tends to develop some serious washboard by the end of summer.) Conditions on the mountain are primitive and there is a short (approximately 200 yard) walk to the observatory on a rough dirt road. If you have special needs that would make access difficult, we encourage you to call us (see contact information below) and see if special arrangements can be made. Make sure your car has enough gas for the round trip, bring warm clothes, and a flashlight for the walk to and from the observatory. Special Groups: In addition to our public observing nights, we occassionally host special observing sessions for large groups (public or private school groups, homeschoolers, scouts, etc.). A donation may be requested for these events to help defray the observatory´s operational costs for that evening. If you would like to inquire about scheduling such an event, please contact: (406) 243-5179 or e-mail me. |
