You don’t have to be a hard-core stargazer to enjoy Pine Mountain Observatory, but if you are an astronomer, this is the place for you. The observatory, located 34 miles southeast of Bend, Oregon, is operated by the University of Oregon Department of Physics under a special use permit from the Deschutes National Forest.
The observatory’s large telescopes allow excellent views of the moon and bright planets. As the sky darkens, tour guides show visitors objects through the various telescopes. A guided binocular tour is also available on some nights. Tour guides point out a variety of celestial objects, including constellations, visible with the naked eye. Questions and comments are welcomed.
Pine Mountain Observatory’s primary function is research and other astronomical observations, including basic and advanced scientific research. However, education at all levels is also an important function and objective of the observatory.
Visitors are welcome on Friday and Saturday evenings, weather permitting, starting Memorial Day through September. “Dark Moon” weekends are best; full moon weekends are least favorable. To see the moon itself, the weekend closest to First Quarter Moon is best.
In the heat of summer, camping here is ideal with 6,300-foot elevation and subsequent cool evenings. The primitive Forest Service Campground, open on a first-come, first-served basis, is located just across the road from the observatory. The camp area consists of four drive-in and ten hike-in sites. There are no camping fees. The camp has one outhouse, but no power hookups, water or trash service. Camping is permitted every day of the week.
Even if your visit doesn’t include observatory viewing, the area offers splendid mountain scenes and hiking.
For more information about Pine Mountain Observatory visit https://pmo.uoregon.edu/visiting/