Astronomy at the Chapter

Our Chapter offers more than trails, streams, and wildlife. It’s also a rare place in Montgomery County to enjoy the night sky. With over 600 acres of protected land, members can step away from suburban glare and experience true dark-sky conditions.

Astronomy fits naturally with the chapter’s mission of conservation and education. Occasionally we will set up telescopes at the Chapter for family campout, although a better spot is the open field near the Archery Range. Its broad horizon and limited light intrusion make it ideal for laying out a blanket or setting up a telescope. On clear nights, members can spot the Milky Way, constellations, bright planets, and seasonal highlights like the Perseid and Geminid meteor showers.

Observing the night sky reinforces our connection to nature. Just as trails and streams root us in the land, astronomy reminds us of our place in the wider universe. At B-CC IWLA, looking up is another way of appreciating the world we work to protect.