Overlooking Jackson, Wyoming, the Snow King Observatory is a pioneering scientific facility that combines cutting-edge architecture and astronomy with public education. The Observatory is the first in North America to feature a public 1-meter telescope at the summit of a ski resort.

With an administrative mission to inspire curiosity, ignite passion, and spark the imagination of future generations, the observatory houses a Planewave telescope, a 37-seat planetarium theater, and interactive exhibits. Accessible by gondola or a hike, the Snow King Observatory is a one-of-a-kind destination, inviting all to explore the wonders of the universe from one of the most stunning vistas in the United States.

The Snow King Observatory has generated extensive press coverage, beginning with the construction process and continuing through its grand opening, which was hosted by Bill Nye. The project went on to receive major international recognition, earning the global People’s Choice Award from Architizer’s prestigious A+ Awards competition. It also won a WMR AIA Award of Honor, standing out among submissions from 8 Western Mountain Region states, and was featured in Western Home Journal. 

Design Team: 
Farmer Payne Architects, Jamie Farmer 
Galczynski, Jakub Galczynski 
Structural Engineer: 
Tectonic Design, Jeffery Hobson 
MEP Engineer: 
Energy-1 

Civil Engineer: 
Nelson Engineering 

Builder: 
Ormond Builders
Construction Manager, Jeff Golighty 

Additional Contributions: 
Wyoming Stargazing, Dr. Samuel Singer 
Observatory Systems, Paul Gardner 
Snow King Mountain, Ryan Stanley 
Planewave Telescope, Cameron Vittiglio and Josh Person 
SPITZ Planetarium, Chris Wright 
Sedia Systems, Shannon Jefferies 
Ash Dome 
Akouo Acoustics 
Science on a Sphere