There are just a few places left in the southeastern United States where you’ll find Dark Skies – places where the light pollution is low enough to observe thousands of stars. French Camp, Mississippi is one of those places, and if you want to witness the heavens above like never before, you’ll want to visit this observatory and planetarium.

The Rainwater Observatory & Planetarium was founded in 1985, and is part of the French Camp Academy. You'll find it at 6810 MS-413, French Camp, MS 39745.
Rainwater Observatory & Planetarium
This observatory is the largest in Mississippi, and includes more than 25 powerful telescopes to help you get a closer look at the heavens above.
Rainwater Observatory & Planetarium
From small (but powerful) telescopes...
Rainwater Observatory and Planetarium
...to the 32-inch Tectron telescope...
Rainwater Observatory and Planetarium
...you'll observe the heavens above in a whole new way here!
Rainwater Observatory and Planetarium/Google
This facility mainly caters to groups, including schools, libraries, senior groups, civic groups, churches, museums, and more. A public program is held once a month.
Rainwater Observatory and Planetarium

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Walk the grounds and visit each of the displays to learn more about our planets, stars, and solar system.
Rainwater Observatory and Planetarium/Google
The "Observa-dome" Planetarium can seat up to 50 people for lectures and programs about constellations, the planets, and even mythology.
Rainwater Observatory and Planetarium
The Scouts programs here are especially popular. Scout groups (and other groups) can camp right onsite, and have access to the facilities to learn more about astronomy and our universe.
Rainwater Observatory and Planetarium
The Mid South Star Gaze and Astronomy Conference brings people from all over the country every year in April.
Rainwater Observatory and Planetarium
A trip to the Rainwater Observatory is truly a unique experience.
Roger Smith/flickr
Whether you come with a group, or attend a monthly public program, you'll be in awe and wonder at the starry skies above.
Rainwater Observatory and Planetarium

To stay abreast of the latest happenings at Rainwater Observatory, and to be notified of its public events, sign up for its newsletter. Visit the observatory’s website to find out more about booking an event for your group, or visiting during their monthly public program. Have you visited Rainwater Observatory? Tell us about your trip!

If you’re ready to get out and explore even more of Mississippi, you might want to take these 12 epic adventures.

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6810 MS-413, French Camp, MS 39745