Library Telescope Checkout Programs
Ever wanted to use a telescope, but don’t want to buy one? Our club supports checkout telescopes at a number of libraries in western Montana. See below for information about the two telescopes available through our local library, the Missoula Public Library.
Sometimes, a journey across the galaxy just takes a trip to the library. Learn More
Mary Drew Powers looks at the Orion StarBlast telescope available for checking out at the Missoula Public Library. The telescope, which is ideal for astronomical viewing, comes with plenty of instructions and information on stars and celestial objects. Photo by Tom Bauer.
If you are a member of the following libraries, please contact them about checking out their telescope – most can be checked out for up to a week, and all you will need is a library card!
- North Valley Public Library in Stevensville
- Darby Community Public Library
- North Lake County Library in Polson
- Missoula Public Library
- Preston Hot Springs Town/County Public Library
- Ronan Library District
- Bitterroot Public Library in Hamilton
- Imagine IF Libraries in Kalispell
Blue Mountain Observatory and UM Star Gazing Room
We are fortunate in Missoula to have the historic Blue Mountain Observatory on the very top of Blue Mountain. The University of Montana’s Physics and Astronomy department operates open houses at the observatory during the summer. Built in 1970, the Blue Mountain Observatory houses a 16″ Boller and Chivens f/18 Cassegrain telescope on a permanent, equatorial mount inside an Ash Dome. Open house participants can view the skies through the dome’s telescope, and also through a number of other university and club-supplied telescopes outside the dome.
For a current list of viewing opportunities at the observatory and driving directions, see their website. PLEASE – reserve tickets through their website, and ensure that you check their Facebook page or call their informational number before heading up to any events. Heed all instructions with regard to conduct and comfort.
Club members from the WMAA often attend these events in lieu of our summer meetings to supplement the instruction and equipment of the university. This partnership has strengthened both organizations, and we look forward to working with UM for years to come!
Throughout the year, the Physics and Astronomy department also hosts events at their Star Gazing Room, located in the Payne Family Native American Center at the University of Montana. Please see their website for upcoming events.
Montana Chapter of the International Dark Sky Association
The International Dark Sky Association is dedicated to preserving the night sky for all to be enjoyed. They advocate for and develop dark sky policies to prevent and reduce light pollution. The Montana chapter of this organization was founded in 2019, and is actively working to preserve Montana’s dark skies for the benefit and enjoyment of all.
Missoula Lighting Ordinance and Information
The Missoula community has a lighting ordinance in place to help preserve our night sky for the benefit of all. If there is lighting that is impacting the night sky which you think might warrant adjustment or replacement, there are options to help you navigate this issue.
If the lighting in question is a private or commercial entity, you’ll want to first approach them if possible about the impacts. If this is not possible or you are unsure of who is responsible for the lighting, you can fill out the Lighting Ordinance Complaint Form. The city is very responsive to these forms.
If the lighting in question is owned by Northwestern Energy, Missoula’s lighting utility company, you can fill out their request form on the Report a Street Light/Yard Issue section of their website. Club members who have used this form report that they often attempt to address these issues within 1-2 business days.