The Big Sky Astronomy Club Observatory
After investigating several possible locations for the observatory, the Observatory Committee unanimously agreed that a site on Blacktail Mountain, on Flathead National Forest property held the most promise. Blacktail Mountain lies 13 air miles south of the city of Kalispell and 7 air miles west of the community of Lakeside, Montana. It is also home to Blacktail Mountain Ski Area, a very popular local ski resort.
The Proposed Site of the BSAC Blacktail Mountain Observatory
Because the mountain belongs to the Federal Government and is located within the Flathead National Forest, the developers of the ski area had to obtain a "Special Use Permit" before they could begin its construction. When we approached the developers of the ski area about our idea, they were very enthusiastic and helpful. We then met with representatives of the Flathead National Forest who also were very encouraging and helpful.
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