The Haggart Observatory at CCC

The Haggart Observatory is located at Clackamas Community College's Environmental Learning Center on the Oregon City campus. It originally opened in 1989, and as with many projects at the college, its construction was the result of strong community support, including donated and repurposed materials, financial contributions and countless volunteer hours. Learn about our history.

Through a valued partnership with Rose City Astronomers (RCA), a local amateur astronomy club, we are able to provide viewing opportunities for the public several times a year. Attendees get to observe the night sky through a beautiful 24-inch Newtonian reflector telescope, located in the observatory dome, as well as through several portable telescopes that are placed on the observatory deck. RCA volunteers guide stargazers and ensure that everyone gets to see a sampling of objects that are viewable on that particular date. Learn about our telescopes.

Public Viewings

We are thrilled to announce the reopening of the observatory and welcome back public viewing opportunities in 2023! This year, we're focusing on Earth's closest neighbor, the moon. While you can look up any day or night and have a 50% chance of seeing it (weather permitting), have you seen it in detail through a telescope?

Observatory details

  • You must pre-register as there are a limited number of tickets
  • 30-minute time slots (you will be prompted to select a time)
  • Hosted by Rose City Astronomers (RCA)
  • Registration is free

Register for tickets

Dates

  • April 28 and 29, 9 p.m.
  • May 26 and 27, 9:30 p.m.
  • July 25, 8:30 p.m.
  • August 25, 8:30 p.m.

Visitors coming to the April and May dates may have a chance to glimpse Venus as it sets shortly after the sun, and in August, you may be able to see Saturn as it clears the trees to the east.

Bring your enthusiasm for the night sky and any questions you may have for our Rose City Astronomers volunteers!

Directions

Clackamas Community College is located at 19600 Molalla Ave., Oregon City 97045. We are located near the intersection of Hwy 213 and Beavercreek Road, about three miles south of Interstate-205 (Exit 10).

The Environmental Learning Center is on the northeast edge of campus. The easiest route is to use the back entrance to the campus, off of Beavercreek Road. Take a right on Douglas Loop, and then another right onto Inskeep Drive. A sign for the Environmental Learning Center can be seen at its entrance, with parking available just past the entrance.