Experience the Night Sky at Snow King Mountain in Jackson, Wyoming
:max_bytes(150000):strip_icc():format(jpeg)/TAL-snow-king-mountain-resort-observatory-SKIOBSRVTRY0924-735296608f5b4087b0deb56684456c41.jpg "Observatory at Snow King Mountain Resort")
Nestled in Teton County, Wyoming, Jackson Hole is on the verge of becoming an International Dark Sky Community. This makes it a prime destination for astronomy enthusiasts eager to witness planets, meteors, and even the occasional aurora borealis. The region’s minimal light pollution combined with its high altitude and low humidity ensures crystal-clear night skies year-round.
A New Stargazing Destination: The Snow King Observatory & Planetarium
This summer marked the grand opening of a new attraction for stargazers—the Snow King Observatory & Planetarium—situated atop Snow King Mountain. Located just a short distance from Town Square and perched at an impressive elevation of 8,000 feet, this facility is recognized as the first observatory and planetarium located within a ski resort in the United States. To reach this unique venue, visitors must take a scenic five-minute gondola ride that offers breathtaking views of the Teton Range and surrounding landscapes.
Exploring Space: Daytime and Nighttime Experiences
Upon arrival at the summit, guests can choose between two ticket options: Observatory Day Experience or Observatory Night Experience. Inside this educational hub lies a 37-seat planetarium theater featuring interactive exhibits along with presentations led by knowledgeable experts.
The rooftop observation deck is where visitors can truly immerse themselves in stargazing activities. Equipped with several smaller telescopes alongside a powerful 1-meter observatory-class telescope designed for both research purposes and astrophotography endeavors; guests have ample opportunity to explore celestial wonders up close.
“In just our first few months since opening,” shared Joe Zator, director of Snow King Observatory & Planetarium with Travel + Leisure magazine, “we’ve conducted satellite photometry studies and multi-filter imaging of spiral galaxies while allowing hundreds to view Saturn’s stunning rings through our eyepiece.”
Daytime Delights Under Solar Views
If you opt for daytime visits instead of nighttime stargazing sessions filled with galaxies or star clusters; there are still remarkable sights awaiting you! “Our rooftop solar telescope provides incredible views,” Zator explained further. “You might catch glimpses of sunspot clusters or massive solar prominences that are larger than Earth itself.” If luck is on your side during your visit—you may even witness coronal mass ejections!
Catching Celestial Events Throughout The Year
If you’re hoping to experience extraordinary astronomical events from atop Snow King Mountain—Zator has some exciting recommendations regarding timing your visit! “This fall presents an opportunity to observe what could be a rare nova explosion within Corona Borealis,” he noted enthusiastically while also mentioning upcoming highlights such as December’s Geminids meteor shower along with February’s chance to see seven planets visible simultaneously.” Additionally—there’s heightened potential for witnessing auroras over coming months due largely because we’re entering into another period known as solar maximum.”
A Winter Wonderland Awaits Stargazers
No need to fret if your schedule doesn’t align perfectly with these celestial occurrences! According to Zator—there remains plenty worth seeing from their observing deck throughout winter months too! “The snow-covered Tetons create an idyllic backdrop against which one can enjoy sunsets followed by gazing upon lunar craters alongside captivating planets like Jupiter—and distant galaxies millions upon millions light-years away,” he added.
Tickets for visiting both day or night experiences can easily be purchased via their official website—which will soon feature updates reflecting winter schedules along availability details!
