Medicine Hat Astronomy Club
From casual stargazers to experienced astrophotographers, our club provides opportunities to learn, observe, and connect under some of the darkest skies in Southern Alberta.
Medicine Hat Astronomy Club
A Community Built Around the Stars
Since 1979, we’ve helped astronomy enthusiasts connect, learn, and explore the sky through meetings, outreach, and events. The Medicine Hat Astronomy Club is a non-profit society dedicated to promoting the hobby of amateur astronomy and bringing together people who share a passion for the night sky.
Our mission is simple: to promote amateur astronomy, foster learning, and provide a welcoming space for people to explore the universe together.
Facility highlights include:
- A 16-inch Meade Schmidt-Cassegrain Telescope (SCT)
- Additional on-site Dobsonian telescopes
- A theatre room for presentations and training
- Kitchen and common areas for meetings and events
Medicine Hat Astronomy Club
Our Home Under the Stars
The Medicine Hat Astronomy Club was incorporated under Alberta’s Societies Act in October 1980. In August 1983, the club opened its own observatory, Sunridge Observatory, located approximately 17 km west of Medicine Hat on Highway 3.
Southern Alberta is uniquely positioned for astronomy, offering wide-open skies, low humidity, and access to some of Canada’s darkest observing locations. These conditions make it ideal for everything from casual stargazing to deep-sky observing and astrophotography.
Now in its 42nd year of operation, Sunridge Observatory is owned and operated entirely by the Medicine Hat Astronomy Club, with clear title to the property and facility.
Facility highlights include:
- A 16-inch Meade Schmidt-Cassegrain Telescope (SCT)
- Additional on-site Dobsonian telescopes
- A theatre room for presentations and training
- Kitchen and common areas for meetings and events
Medicine Hat Astronomy Club
Upcoming Events and News
September 7-12, 2026
Southern Alberta Star Party
The Southern Alberta Star Party (SASP) is our biggest event of the year! An unforgettable week of stargazing, astrophotography, and community under Bortle 2 dark skies in the stunning Cypress Hills. Bring your telescope, meet fellow enthusiasts, and experience the Milky Way like you’ve never seen it before.
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Medicine Hat Astronomy Club
Become a Member
Club Membership runs from November 1st to October 31st, annually. Membership gets you access to the facility and all its perks including loaner telescopes, the use of on premises telescopes, a multi-session astronomy course, access to the library, and more.
- Access to Sunridge Observatory, which houses a 16 inch Meade Schmidt Cassegrain Telescope (SCT)
- Two 8-inch SkyWatcher Dobsonian telescopes available for loan
- On-site telescopes: Two 10-inch Dobsonian and One 12-inch collapsible Dobsonian telescope
- Access to the on premise Exploradome's remote imaging system.
- Monthly club meetings
- Club library access
- Member-only and public viewing nights
- Astronomy education courses
- Equipment training and mentorship
- Community outreach and special events
Individual Membership
Perfect for the individual who wants full access to club benefits.
$120
/
year
Family Membership
Ideal for households who want to enjoy astronomy together.