Public Observing Night at Baker Observatory

Star gazing

Visit our state-of-the-art facility for free public stargazing nights. 

You can use our telescopes to get a closer look into the galaxy.

 

Upcoming viewing dates

All dates are weather permitting.

  • for the fall semester dates check here in late August

If the sky is looking cloudy, check our Facebook page for updates or call 417-836-5131 after 5 p.m. on the day of the event.

Other adverse weather conditions such as tornado watches can also cause event cancellations.

Please do not call before 5 p.m. on the day of the observing event, as it is unlikely that a decision will be made much before that.

Check the university's master calendar for all MSU happenings.

What to bring and wear

  • A red flashlight
  • Sturdy, casual shoes or boots
  • Dress for the weather

To help us keep the site dark for better viewing, the red flashlight will help you see your way around the observatory entrance and grounds.

Red tape or cellophane over a regular flashlight is okay.

Directions to Baker Observatory

The Baker Observatory is located in Webster County approximately 10 miles northwest of Marshfield, off Missouri Highway 38. We encourage you to carpool due to a limited parking area.

Address

Baker Observatory
1766 Old Hillcrest Road
Fair Grove, MO. 65648

Where to park

Park facing left (south) in the parking lot. Please turn off your headlights immediately after you park.

A traffic attendant may be stationed at the intersection with Rose Bush Drive to direct parking.

Show on map

Students gather for a group picture in front of Baker Observatory.

Below you can see exemplary images of celestial objects we have seen.

Lagoon nebula

Lagoon nebula

Omega nebula

Omega nebula

Trifid nebula

Trifid nebula

Dumbbell nebula

Dumbbell nebula

Andromeda galaxy

Andromeda galaxy

Ring nebula

Ring nebula

Flame nebula

Flame nebula

C/2023 A3 Tsuchinsan-ATLAS comet

C/2023 A3 Tsuchinsan-ATLAS comet

Horsehead nebula

Horsehead nebula

NGC0891 galaxy

NGC0891 galaxy

Eclipsed Moon

Eclipsed Moon

Orion nebula

Orion nebula