Hidden Valley Observatory

Hidden Valley Observatory sits on the edge of the Black Hills National Forest, northwest of Rapid City, South Dakota, in the United States.

About Hidden Valley Observatory

The observatory is owned and operated by the Black Hills Astronomical Society at 4715 Hidden Valley Road. Alongside the observing facility itself, the grounds include an outdoor classroom and an observation field used for group stargazing.

History

Hidden Valley Observatory was established in 1965 and has since become the home base for the Black Hills Astronomical Society's public and members' astronomy activities in the region.

Telescopes & research

The society operates a 12-inch Meade telescope at the site, alongside the outdoor classroom and observation field used for group sessions and star parties.

Location & getting there

The observatory is in the North America region, in the United States, on the edge of the Black Hills National Forest northwest of Rapid City, South Dakota. The forested, low-population setting away from the city helps keep the skies dark for observing.

Visiting Hidden Valley Observatory

The public is welcome on specific dates listed by the Black Hills Astronomical Society, which also hosts public and private star parties at the site. Check the society's website for the current schedule before visiting.

See your named star from here

Star parties like the ones held at Hidden Valley are exactly the kind of gathering where a named star gets its moment. If you've named a star with Star Register, bring your certificate's coordinates along and see if the group's telescope can find it. Browse the star catalogue to look up your star first.