What Is It?
Look deep into space with help from the equipment at Goldendale Observatory in southern Washington. The facility is home to one of the largest public telescopes in the United States.
History
In the 1960s, amateur astronomers associated with Clark College outside Vancouver, Washington, built a series of telescopes. Seeking to get away from the Portland-metro area’s light pollution, they moved east along the Columbia River to Goldendale. The observatory opened in 1973 and will celebrate its 50th anniversary October 14, coinciding with the annular solar eclipse.
See a Show
Goldendale Observatory puts on two shows a day, with different schedules for spring/summer and fall/winter. At the earlier solar program—2-4 p.m. in winter and
3-5 p.m. in summer—the observatory’s staff discuss and focus on the sun. The night show is 7-10 p.m. in the winter and 9 p.m. to midnight in summer. Staff guides visitors through the stars and space by using the facility’s 24.5-inch reflecting telescope.
Before You Go
Visits are by appointment only. Groups must schedule ahead with the observatory before arriving. To make an appointment, call the observatory or visit its website. Admission is free, but a Washington State Parks Discover Pass is required for on-site parking. The $10 pass can be bought at the observatory.
More Information
Goldendale Observatory posts weather conditions on its website, helping prospective visitors choose times for optimal viewing conditions. To start planning your trip, call 509-773-3141 or visit www.goldendaleobservatory.com.