The small observatory in Westcliffe is in Colorado’s first designated International Dark Sky Community. Opened in 2015 and home to one of the most powerful telescopes in Colorado, the observatory attracts stargazers from around the world to the Wet Mountain Valley. The 12-by-12 building is named in honor of Suzanne B. Jack, who was known as Smokey Jack and was the founder and first president of the Dark Skies of the Wet Mountain Valley group. The observatory is only open to the public for certain events, so definitely check the website for best times to head that way. (Thanks to photographer Scott Dankoff for this incredible image.)
Smokey Jack Observatory
100 S Adams Blvd, Westcliffe, CO 81252, USA (38.135323, -105.473428)
More Information