Did You Miss the Northern Lights? Here Are Unique Things to Do in Jackson Hole Wyoming for Aspiring Stargazers

If your TikTok feed has been flooded with glowing skies and you’ve got a serious case of aurora FOMO, you’re not alone. The northern lights made a surprise guest appearance over the continental U.S. this month, reaching as far south as Texas. But even if you missed them, don’t worry – your stargazing adventures are just beginning.

Jackson Hole: A Hidden Gem for Night Sky Lovers

Nestled against Grand Teton National Park and far from major light pollution, Jackson Hole is one of the best places in the lower 48 for year-round celestial sightings. And unlike those fleeting auroras, there’s something to see in the night sky every night – if you know where to look.

Here are some of the most unique things to do in Jackson Hole Wyoming for astronomy lovers, visitors, and curious locals alike:

🔭 Take a Private Stargazing Tour

Join Wyoming Stargazing for an unforgettable night under the cosmos. With telescopes powerful enough to spot Saturn’s rings, expert astronomy educators, and a serious sense of SOUP (Sense of Universal Place), these tours are the kind of thing you’ll talk about for years.

Why it’s unique:

• See galaxies, nebulae, and planets with zero hassle.
• Learn cool facts about the universe from passionate guides.
• It’s family-friendly and totally mind-blowing.

👉 Check out the Jackson Hole Stargazing tours here

☀️ Try Solar Viewing in Town Square

You don’t have to wait until nightfall to enjoy the wonders of space. Wyoming Stargazing also hosts public solar viewing events in town, where you can safely view sunspots and solar flares through a special telescope.

Why it’s unique:

• Free events right in town.
• Safe solar telescopes = daytime astronomy win.
• Fun for kids and adults who’ve never looked at the sun (the right way!).

Looking for truly unique things to do in Jackson Hole Wyoming that don’t involve hiking or skiing? Solar viewing might be your surprise favorite.

🌠 Watch a Meteor Shower in a Dark Sky Preserve

Did you know Grand Teton National Park is an official International Dark Sky Park? That means there are designated spots where artificial light is limited and the sky truly comes alive.

Upcoming meteor showers:

• Delta Aquariids: Late July
• Perseids: Mid-August
• Orionids: October

Plan your trip around these dates for a real treat. Watching a meteor shower in one of the country’s most scenic regions is easily among the most unique things to do in Jackson Hole Wyoming.

🌌 Book a Stargazing Event for Your Group

You don’t have to wait until nightfall to Looking for something a little more customized? Wyoming Stargazing offers private stargazing events for schools, corporate retreats, families, and other groups.

Why it’s unique:

• Make your Jackson Hole trip unforgettable.
• Perfect for romantic proposals or team bonding.
• Flexible, educational, and 100% awe-inspiring.

Planning a group outing? Group stargazing is one of those rare, unique things to do in Jackson Hole Wyoming that combines science, adventure, and unforgettable memories.

Ready to Explore the Universe?

Book your stargazing tour with Wyoming Stargazing and discover the night sky like never before.

For a few months around the New Year of 1744, the world was treated to a spectacular cosmic display as Comet C/1743 X1 (Comet de Chéseaux) passed though the inner solar system. This particular comet was among the brightest in history and as the comet made its approach towards the sun, an extremely rare phenomenon occurred. For about a week in early March the comet developed a ‘fan’ of six distinct tails clearly visible in the morning twilight. Among those who witnessed this dazzling event was a 13 year old French boy named Charles Messier.

This experience profoundly affected the boy which inspired him to later become a respected astronomer obsessed hunting for new comets. While scouring the sky night after night for new passing comets, he would frequently come across unchanging glowing patches that often misdirected his observations. In an effort to reduce his frustration and time wasted confusing them for possible comet candidates, Messier published the Catalogue of Nebulae and Star Clusters in 1781, a seemingly inconspicuous list of about 100 of these “not-comet” objects.

While Messier made many exciting comet discoveries throughout his life, it was this catalog that cemented his place in history as one of the fathers of modern astronomy. Today the objects published in that original catalog are known as the Messier Objects. They represent some of the most easily observed deep-sky targets seen from earth which makes them some of the most valued and studied objects within astronomy as well as among the most celebrated targets among amateur astronomers.

If you want to experience some of the best the night sky has to offer, the Messier Catalog is where to start. Experienced amateurs can even attempt the highly challenging Messier Marathon, where it is possible between mid-March to early April for stargazers to go sun up to sun down trying to observe all 110 famous objects in a single night!

Whether you book a private stargazing program with Wyoming Stargazing or just come hang out at one of our weekly public events, many of the deep-sky objects we love to observe are part of the Messier Catalog. Here are some of our absolute favorites that you can see through our enormous 22” Dobsonian telescopes!

M45 – The Pleiades

• Location: Taurus
• Distance: 440 lightyears
• Age: ~100 million years old

M42 – The Orion Nebula

• Location: Orion
• Distance: 1,350 lightyears
• Age: ~2 million years old

M57 – The Ring Nebula

• Location: Lyra
• Distance: 2,500 lightyears
• Age: ~1,600 years old

M1 – The Crab Nebula

• Location: Taurus
• Distance: 6,500 lightyears
• Age: 970 years old

M31 – The Andromeda Galaxy

• Location: Andromeda
• Distance: 2.5 million lightyears
• Age: ~10 billion years old!

Winter is here! And with the passing seasons, brings new constellations into our evening night skies. During the winter months, it is the mighty hunter Orion who takes the center stage as the prominent constellation this time of year.

Orion is easily identifiable, distinguished by the famous trio of bright stars known as Orion’s belt. Within its boundaries contains many notable and interesting targets worth viewing, however the great hunter can also be used as a cosmic guidepost of sorts, pointing towards a number of other notable stars and deep sky objects. Let’s take a look at some of the wonderful stars and deep sky objects you can spot from your own backyard this winter using Orion to point the way!

Betelguese

The second brightest star within Orion is the brilliant star Betelguese, forming his right shoulder (as he is facing us) and distinguished by its intense red-orange hue. Betelguese is an aging red giant nearing the end of its life and is among the largest stars visible in our night sky, nearing 1000x the width of our own sun! Betelguese will soon end its life in an explosive supernova event seeding future star systems with the atomic building blocks necessary to assemble rocky planets, and even perhaps spark new life.

The Great Orion Nebula

Situated neatly within Orion’s sword is perhaps the most celebrated of all astronomical treasures is the Great Orion Nebula, considered one of the most spectacular deep sky objects to witness through a telescope or binoculars. Referred to as a “stellar nursery” these hydrogen rich regions within our galaxy act as cosmic nesting grounds producing thousands of new stars and planetary systems within.

Aldebaran and the Pleiades

Following in the direction of the belt stars west about the distance of two closed fists held together at arm’s length will land us on the star Aldebaran, a red giant comparable in mass to our own sun at just 36 light years away. Continue the same direction a little further and you’ll arrive at the Pleiades (or Seven Sisters), an unmistakable naked eye cluster of stars. Alternatively known as the “Subaru,” you might recognize this small pattern of stars resembling the emblem of the Japanese automaker of the same name!

The Star Clusters of Auriga

Gazing directly above Orion’s head about 45 degrees will lead you to Capella, the brightest star within the constellation Auriga. Within its borders, Auriga is home to three beautiful star clusters identified by the famous astronomer Charles Messier. The clusters M36, M37 and M38 are all visible under dark skies with a good pair of binoculars and even better through small scopes.

Castor and Pollux

Finally, imagine connecting a line from the rightmost belt star of Orion to Betelguese. Continue along this path to point you to the star Castor, one of the two Gemini Twins. Appearing as a single star to the naked eye, Castor is actually a sextuple star system (that’s six stars!) all revolving around one another in a delicate orbital dance. With a modest telescope Castor resolves itself as one of the sky’s finest double stars.

Whether you have a pair of binoculars, a telescope or just your own eyes, be sure to step outside on a clear evening this winter and see how many of these objects you can find! Better yet, if you find yourself in Jackson, Wyoming this winter, come meet one of our experienced guides at our free weekly Stargazing @ Stilson to view some of these objects upclose through our 20” dobsonian telescope!

You can find us located at the back of the Stilson bus lot (Hwy 22 and Moose Wilson Rd) every clear Thursday night after sunset this winter from 6-8pm. See you there!

Astronomy Events in Wyoming are perfect thanks to the vast open spaces and clear skies. Astronomy enthusiasts and curious stargazers can enjoy the cosmos and the events themselves. Among the various celestial events and opportunities to delve into the mysteries of the universe, two standout experiences beckon – Solar Astronomy at the People’s Market and Stargazing at Stilson. Let’s take a closer look at these captivating astronomical adventures that await in the heart of Wyoming.

Solar Astronomy at the People’s Market

Nestled at the Base of Snow King, the People’s Market is more than just a farmers’ market; it’s a hub of community spirit and a gateway to the cosmos. Every week during the summer, the People’s Market hosts free public solar astronomy programs, inviting both locals and visitors to explore the blazing beauty of our nearest star – the Sun.

As the closest star to Earth, the Sun’s brilliance and importance cannot be overstated. At approximately 93 million miles away, its impact on our planet is immeasurable. The People’s Market offers an opportunity to get up close and personal with our Sun, through telescopes equipped with filters that ensure safe observation. From sunspots to faculae and granules, the Sun’s photosphere reveals a vibrant tapestry of features that tell the story of its dynamic nature.

Beyond its scientific significance, the People’s Market embodies the essence of community connection. Local growers, artisans, and producers converge here, creating a space where good, clean, and fair food takes center stage. The market facilitates direct interactions between producers and consumers, fostering transparency in farming practices and strengthening the local food system. It’s a place where the wonders of the cosmos meet the joys of community engagement.

Stargazing at Stilson

If you’re enchanted by the twinkling stars that adorn Wyoming’s night sky, then Stargazing at Stilson is an event not to be missed. Wyoming Stargazing, a dedicated group of astronomy educators, offers free, year-round stargazing sessions at the Stilson Parking Lot in Jackson Hole. With its prime location away from the city lights, this spot provides an optimal environment for gazing at the celestial wonders above.

Every CLEAR Thursday evening, about an hour after sunset, the Stilson Parking Lot transforms into an observatory under the open Wyoming skies. Here, you can embark on a journey through the cosmos, guided by experienced educators armed with powerful telescopes. Planets, stars, galaxies, and planetary nebulae all come into view, painting a vivid picture of the vastness that lies beyond our Earth.

The Stilson experience is enriched by technology, as iPads equipped with the Star Walk application invite you to navigate the heavens digitally. Whether you’re peering through telescopes or exploring constellations on the screens, Wyoming Stargazing’s educators are on hand to answer questions and kindle your curiosity about the universe.

A $10 recommended donation helps support this remarkable initiative, but the knowledge gained and the awe-inspired moments are truly priceless. The beauty of these stargazing sessions lies not only in the celestial spectacle but also in the sense of wonder they evoke and the connections they forge with fellow stargazers.

So, whether you’re captivated by the radiance of the Sun or yearning to lose yourself in the cosmos after dark, Wyoming’s astronomy events offer a unique opportunity to explore the universe from a truly extraordinary vantage point. Embrace the magic of the cosmos against the backdrop of Wyoming’s stunning landscapes, and let your curiosity reach for the stars. Remember to dress warmly, as you prepare to be enchanted by the wonders of the universe that await you in the heart of Wyoming.

if you would like to know more about our Astronomy Events in Wyoming, please contact us we’d be happy to provide any information you need.

Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics (STEM) fields have long been the backbone of innovation and progress in society. However, numerous studies have highlighted the underrepresentation of women, people of color, and LGBTQIA+ professionals in these crucial domains. Additionally, economic disparities have hindered the access of many talented students to STEM education. At Wyoming Stargazing, we believe in the power of education to transform lives and foster a stronger sense of belonging in the STEM workforce. To further our mission, we are proud to introduce our groundbreaking scholarship and mentorship program aimed at empowering opportunity youth to pursue degrees in STEM fields.

Belonging in STEM

Wyoming Stargazing is committed to promoting a sense of Belonging in STEM for everyone. Our program seeks to break down barriers and offer learning opportunities to all students, regardless of their ethnicity, sexual orientation, race, gender, economic background, or any other identifiers that may have previously limited their access to education.

The STEM Mentorship Component

We understand that the journey from school to a successful STEM career can be daunting, which is why our program includes a comprehensive mentorship component. Collaborating with the Teton County School District (TCSD) Achievement via Individual Determination program (AVID), Girl’s Actively Participating (GAP), and other local nonprofits, we provide students with valuable personal and  professional skills to thrive not only in college but throughout their lives. The mentorship will span from middle school to high school, college, and beyond.

Engaging STEM Learning Opportunities

Starting in the Fall of 2022, we offer weekly learning opportunities during school hours and after school to 6th-8th grade students and high school students. These hands-on lessons will delve into scientific and mathematical reasoning while providing practical experiences through authentic activities such as launching weather balloons with data collection devices, designing experiments for the International Space Station, building telescopes, and launching nanosats. Furthermore, we understand the importance of holistic development, so our curriculum includes skills like emotional intelligence, client communication, writing, financial planning, mindfulness, networking, negotiation, and computer literacy.

The STEM Scholarship Program

We recognize the financial challenges many students face in pursuing higher education, especially in STEM fields. Our scholarship program is designed to support graduating seniors in Teton County who intend to pursue STEM degrees. While all eligible students are encouraged to apply, we give preference to those demonstrating financial need and belonging to underrepresented communities in STEM. Selected recipients will receive four $5,000 annual scholarships, renewable for up to four years of college.

Continued Support and Summer Opportunities

Our commitment to our scholarship recipients extends beyond college admission. We continue to offer weekly STEM mentorship opportunities throughout their college journey and assist them with initial job placements upon graduation. Additionally, during summers, scholarship recipients have the chance to engage in paid summer employment at Wyoming Stargazing, which complements their mentorship program.

Building a Supportive Community

Wyoming Stargazing boasts a dedicated team with extensive youth mentorship and leadership experience, scientific training, astronomical knowledge, and business acumen. Together with our local steering committee, administrative support from the Fund for Public Education, and other valuable community partnerships, we are determined to provide unwavering support to local students in pursuit of their STEM dreams.

At Wyoming Stargazing, we firmly believe that a sense of belonging is essential for driving innovation and progress in STEM. Our scholarship and mentorship program aims to level the playing field, providing every deserving student with equal opportunities to excel in the fields of Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics. Through our principles, hands-on learning experiences, and continued support, we are excited to contribute to a more inclusive and diverse future for STEM professionals. Join us on this journey of empowerment and change! if you have any questions please contact us, we’re happy to provide additional information.

Get ready to witness the birth of a celestial marvel as the Snow King Observatory takes its rightful place atop Wyoming’s majestic Snow King Mountain. The anticipation reaches a fever pitch as the dream, tirelessly championed by Wyoming Stargazing and supported by Snow King Mountain Resort LLC., nears its stunning completion, bringing the cosmos closer to avid stargazers like never before.

Building the Snow king Observatory

Envisioned by the brilliant architect Jakub Galczynski of FarmerPayne Architects, the Snow King Observatory and Planetarium shine as the crown jewels of the Snow King Phase 2 Master Plan, recently approved by the Town of Jackson. With the resounding endorsement from the United States Forest Service (USFS) following their meticulous Environmental Impact Assessment in 2021, the stage is set for an extraordinary astronomical adventure.

Amidst the flurry of activity, construction is in full swing atop the majestic summit of Snow King Mountain, building the excitement towards the grand unveiling in the upcoming fall of 2023. Standing tall and proud, the Observatory boasts a remarkable 24′ AstroHaven dome that will house an awe-inspiring 1.0-meter PlaneWave telescope. This cutting-edge marvel will stake its claim among the world’s largest telescopes, captivating the public with its unrivaled outreach capabilities—an emblem of astronomical exploration like no other.

The benefits of the Snow king Observatory

But that’s not all the Snow King Observatory has to offer. Prepare to be astounded by the state-of-the-art Spitz 8-meter digital planetarium, designed to accommodate 30 awestruck individuals. Immerse yourself in captivating educational experiences within the classroom/theater space, while interactive galleries brimming with enthralling exhibits kindle curiosity in visitors of all ages. With event spaces available, the Observatory aims to become an iconic center of scientific learning in the vast expanse of the Rocky Mountain West.

Driven by a steadfast commitment to ignite passion for astronomy, Wyoming Stargazing has set an ambitious goal to impact one million students through both in-person and virtual programming by 2030. With the Snow King Observatory nearing completion, their vision is poised to become a resounding reality. This celestial sanctuary will serve as the gateway to the wonders of the cosmos, captivating minds and inspiring generations to come.

Prepare to embark on an unforgettable journey and mark your calendars. Soon, you will have the privilege of witnessing the universe in ways never before imagined, as the Snow King Observatory ascends to the heavens. Brace yourself as the realms of science and imagination merge in an awe-inspiring spectacle, ushering in a new era of extraordinary astronomical discovery.

While we eagerly await the completion of the new observatory, join us for a series of thrilling public programs to keep your excitement soaring. And if you have any questions or inquiries, please don’t hesitate to reach out to us. We would love to hear from you and share in your anticipation for this remarkable venture.

Embark on a transformative journey into the realm of astrophotography in the captivating landscapes of Jackson Hole, Wyoming. Let award-winning nature photographer, Mike Cavaroc, guide you through the intricacies of capturing the celestial wonders that adorn the night sky. This post invites you to delve into the mesmerizing world of astrophotography, providing insights into the incredible opportunities awaiting you in Grand Teton and Yellowstone National Parks, along with essential tips to create awe-inspiring images.

Discover the Magic of Astrophotography with Mike Cavaroc. Immerse yourself in the expertise of Mike Cavaroc, a seasoned professional with a profound passion for astrophotography. With nearly 15 years of experience and an intimate understanding of Jackson Hole’s natural wonders, Mike has honed his skills and knowledge to capture the essence of this extraordinary region. As a wildlife safari guide and stargazing leader, he possesses invaluable insights into the behavior of wildlife and the techniques required to immortalize these moments. By joining Mike on this astrophotography adventure, you will gain an unparalleled understanding of the region and emerge with stunning images and cherished memories.

Unleash Your Astrophotographic Creativity:

Grand Teton and Yellowstone National Parks present a captivating backdrop for your astrophotography journey. These renowned destinations not only boast breathtaking landscapes but also provide a wealth of subjects to ignite your creativity. Whether you seek to capture the grace and power of wildlife, immortalize the grandeur of landscapes, or unveil the mysteries of the cosmos, these parks offer limitless opportunities to enhance your craft. With Mike Cavaroc as your mentor, these iconic settings become your personal classroom, empowering you to elevate your astrophotography skills and unleash your creative vision.

Astrophotography Instruction in Jackson Hole’s Heart:

Embrace the opportunity to explore astrophotography year-round in Jackson Hole, excluding Thursdays and Fridays. The program, priced at $700 for up to four individuals, ensures an intimate learning experience. Please note that gratuity, typically ranging from 10% to 20% of the total cost, is not included. Convenient pick-ups are available throughout the entire valley of Jackson Hole, ensuring easy access to the region’s natural wonders.

Essential Astrophotography Tips:

Preparing for a Night of Captivating Shots: Prepare for your astrophotography expedition by assembling the following essential equipment:

• A Digital SLR Camera with a removable lens
• Full Manual mode to exercise complete control over your settings
• A sturdy tripod for stability during long exposures
• A headlamp equipped with both red and white lights for convenient navigation
• Position a light cube with a remote approximately 10 feet away from your foreground object to enhance lighting effects.

Mastering Camera Settings:

Unlock the full potential of your astrophotography by configuring your camera settings as follows:

• Opt for a 30-second exposure time to capture the essence of light in the night sky.
• Set your ISO to 3200 to maximize the camera’s sensitivity to light.
• Select the lowest possible f-stop (widest aperture) to enable maximum light intake.

Choosing the Ideal Lens:

For remarkable astrophotographs, consider utilizing Rokinon lenses ranging from 14mm to 22mm. These manual lenses offer exceptional image quality and versatility, enabling you to capture the vastness of the celestial realm.

Crafting Striking Compositions: Elevate your astrophotography by mastering the art of composition:

• Experiment with light painting techniques, utilizing the white light from your headlamp or flashlight to accentuate specific elements within your frame.
• Embrace the enchanting effect of car headlights, which can add a touch of magic and intrigue to

Book Time with Mike

the cosmos are ready for your camera, book your time with Mike. master your Astrophotography while capturing amazing pictures. We welcome any and all questions if you have any, please feel free to contact us!