Welcome to the Robert & Elisabeth Moore Observatory!
Starting October 2025 the Observatory will offer limited viewings to the public. Check here for Ticket availability:
Come see stars with us! At CBC, you can explore the vast wonders the sky has to offer.
Our main telescope is a 16-inch Meade Schmidt-Cassegrain optical tube assembly on a Paramount ME German equatorial mount. The telescope is housed in a six-meter Ash Dome on top of a 25-foot by 40-foot Observatory building.
The Observatory is open during the Fall and Spring months to allow for optimal viewing.
Note: during poor weather or maintenance we will still have the option of a general tour (no viewing) and 15 min Planetarium demonstration. Tickets for Our Main Planetarium Shows are sold Separately.
Please dress accordingly for the weather as the observatory does not have air conditioning within the building to maintain ambient temperature.
The Observatory was developed through the generous donation of the late Robert (Bob) Moore and his late wife, Elisabeth.
Join us for an out of this world tour through the night sky as we view Planets, Deep Space Objects, Galaxies, and More!
Observatory FAQ
As of right now, the Obsevatory is open for limited shows to the public during Fall and Spring for Optimal Viewing. Students in our ASTR101/102 courses will have guided occasional access to the facility during labs. Please continue to visit our page for updates!
Unfortunately, telescopes do not allow us to see through clouds! During poor weather or maintenance we will still have the option of a general tour (no viewing) and 15 min Planetarium demonstration. Call ahead to 509-542-4515 if you're unsure!
Depending on what you'd like to use our Observatory for, we could work with you to schedule a private event. Our Planetarium & Observatory Director will be happy to discuss your options! Please email: Planetarium@columbiabasincollege.edu
That would be our sister facility, the CPCCo Planetarium! Our 36-foot panoramic viewing dome is another wonderful way to explore space at CBC.
Astronomy at CBC
The Astronomy program gives students a choice in how they integrate and apply math and science skills in their learning process. Currently, introductory astronomy is taught as the primary astronomy class. This includes understanding the basics of observational astronomy, the solar system, stars, galaxies and the universe. Our Observatory provides a hands-on learning experience in a research-grade facility. The use of the scientific process, math skills and critical thinking are emphasized as the basis for moving forward in a technologically challenging world.
