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Gunnison Valley Observatory: Reach for the Stars

Explore the cosmos in the pristine dark skies of Gunnison Valley at this publicly-owned observatory with a powerful telescope.

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The Gunnison Valley Observatory offers a unique opportunity to explore the cosmos in the pristine dark skies of Colorado. With a powerful 30-inch telescope and engaging astronomy talks, it's a must-visit for stargazers of all ages.

A brief summary to Gunnison Valley Observatory

  • Friday 8 pm-11 pm
  • Saturday 8 pm-11 pm

Local tips

  • Check the observatory's website for the schedule of astronomy talks and dome tour availability, as they vary throughout the season.
  • Dress warmly, as temperatures can drop significantly at night, even during the summer months.
  • Arrive early to secure a good spot for viewing through the smaller telescopes before the main program begins.
  • Consider bringing binoculars for a closer look at the stars and constellations while waiting for your turn at the main telescope.
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Getting There

  • Driving

    From Gunnison, head west on US Highway 50. Turn left (south) onto County Road 38, just before the twin bridges crossing the Gunnison River. Follow County Road 38 for approximately 2.1 miles, passing around the end of the Regional Airport runway and across Tomichi Creek. The Gunnison Valley Observatory will be on your left. Parking is available in the parking lot at the observatory. There are no fees for parking.

  • Bicycle

    For cyclists, start on E Tomichi Ave in Gunnison and turn onto County Road 38. The route is approximately 5 miles and offers scenic views of the valley. Ensure you wear a helmet and have proper lighting, especially for evening visits.

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Discover more about Gunnison Valley Observatory

The Gunnison Valley Observatory (GVO) provides access to professional-quality stargazing in the heart of the Rocky Mountains. Located just west of Gunnison, Colorado, the observatory is a publicly-owned facility run by dedicated volunteers. GVO's mission is to provide educational experiences and promote astronomy to the local community and visitors. The observatory features a 30-inch reflector telescope, maximizing the clear, unpolluted mountain atmosphere for viewing distant celestial objects. Public viewing nights are typically held on Fridays and Saturdays from June through August. Visitors can enjoy dome tours with viewings through the main telescope, as well as smaller telescopes set up for broader sky observations. Family-friendly astronomy talks are also a regular feature, with knowledgeable volunteers and guest speakers presenting on a variety of space and physics topics. The GVO project was born from the vision of improving the local economy through science tourism. The observatory building was completed in 2007, and public viewings began in June 2008. Since then, it has become a beloved destination for locals and tourists alike, offering a chance to explore the wonders of the universe in an accessible and engaging environment.

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