Montana's sprawling landscapes offer more than just breathtaking mountain vistas and tranquil lakeshores; they also provide an unparalleled canvas for stargazing. PureWest Montana is excited to introduce you to one of the lesser-known but remarkable perks of owning property in this magnificent state - the opportunity to embrace the skyward-looking nighttime hobby. Whether you’re an amateur astronomer or simply intrigued by the cosmos, Montana’s clear and dark skies offer optimal conditions for observing the celestial wonders.
As urban areas become increasingly illuminated, finding a place where the night sky remains unspoiled by light pollution becomes a rarity. Many places in Montana offer the rare ability to glimpse the Milky Way — something that only 20 percent of Americans can do. Montana's vast expanses and low population density create the perfect conditions for an awe-inspiring night sky. Imagine stepping outside your property and gazing upwards to witness myriad stars, constellations, and the hazy arms of the Milky Way stretching across the heavens.
Owning property in Montana grants you the luxury of stepping away from the fast-paced world and indulging in moments of cosmic reflection. Witnessing the stars' ancient light and realizing that you're gazing at distant celestial bodies that have traveled millions of years to reach your eyes fosters a profound sense of wonder and humility. Use this opportunity to connect with the universe and contemplate the mysteries of existence.
For the traveling sky enthusiast, several sections of the state stand above the rest. Glacier-Waterton International Peace Park is a certified International Dark Sky Park, meaning the parks safeguards the right of any citizen to enjoy the vision of the starred sky by implementing good outdoor lighting and offering park sky programs. While other parts of the state don’t have an official Dark Sky certification, the state’s rural nature means huge swaths are pristine places for stargazing, such as near the American Prairie Reserve. A good rule of thumb is to be at least 10 miles from an urban setting. 
What should you be looking for? Even if you know nothing about the cosmic sphere, staring up at the twinkling lights can be a joyous experience. However, there are a few upcoming events to keep on your radar.
August 27: Saturn at opposition. The ringed planet will be on the opposite side of Earth to the sun and be visible from sunset to sunrise.
August 31: Super Blue Moon. This is the second full moon of the month, and it will occur at the satellite’s closest approach to Earth in its orbit.
October 8/9: Draconids meteor shower. Looking to the northwest, spectators in clear areas can expect dozens of meteors an hour.
And, of course, being a state at the northern latitudes, Montana is often privy to dazzling displays of the Northern Lights. Check the forecast for solar storms that might trigger this dreamlike display.
Because Montana is becoming an increasingly popular place, light pollution will continue to creep across the nightscape. You can help keep the night sky pristine for yourself, your neighbors and visitors to the state following the guidelines established by DarkSky International, which includes easy-to-do substitutions at your own home, such as putting outside lights on a timer and replacing your current lightbulbs with lower intensity, warmer colored lights.
Owning property in Montana offers an array of perks, and the opportunity to engage in stargazing beneath its pristine night skies is truly a celestial gift. As you immerse yourself in the universe's grandeur, you'll come to realize that this unique experience is an invitation to slow down, contemplate, and marvel at the infinite wonders above. At PureWest Montana, we celebrate the privilege of stargazing that comes with owning property in this state, where the beauty of the land is mirrored by the splendor of the cosmos above.
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