News Radar

Stream · Insight · Gallery

Bedriftskontakt

Tilbake til forsiden

ENInternasjonal·Omtrentlig lesetid: 3 minutter

Publisering

13 Best Places to Stargaze in the US with Naked Eyes

For much of the world’s population, including most Americans, the night sky has lost its brilliance. Artificial light pollution has dulled the once-vibrant celestial canvas, making the Milky Way invisible to more than two-thirds of U.S. residents.

A

Amy

Signatur

13 Best Places to Stargaze in the US with Naked Eyes

For much of the world’s population, including most Americans, the night sky has lost its brilliance. Artificial light pollution has dulled the once-vibrant celestial canvas, making the Milky Way invisible to more than two-thirds of U.S. residents.

Escaping to rural landscapes or untouched wilderness offers a rare opportunity to witness the night sky in its full splendor—an awe-inspiring spectacle of twinkling stars, luminous planets, meteor showers, and other cosmic wonders.

Recognizing the importance of preserving these pristine skies, the International Dark-Sky Association (IDA) has designated nearly 200 Dark Sky Places worldwide. These include International Dark Sky Parks, Reserves, and Sanctuaries that not only boast unparalleled stargazing conditions but also actively combat light pollution.

Below are some of the best stargazing destinations in the U.S., most of which hold official IDA recognition. Even without telescopes or binoculars, these locations offer breathtaking nightscapes, enhanced by their stunning terrestrial backdrops.

Top Stargazing Destinations in the U.S.

1. Big Bend Area (Texas)

A remote wilderness where the Chihuahuan Desert meets the craggy Chisos Mountains, Big Bend National Park and its surrounding areas offer some of the darkest skies in the Lower 48. The national park and the adjacent Big Bend Ranch State Park are both International Dark Sky Parks, while the Black Gap Wildlife Management Area is designated an International Dark Sky Sanctuary.

2. Death Valley National Park (California)

Despite its proximity to Los Angeles and Las Vegas, Death Valley’s vast, arid landscape shields it from major light pollution. The IDA has awarded this park its highest “Gold Tier” rating for night-sky quality, with prime viewing spots like Ubehebe Crater, Mesquite Flat Sand Dunes, and Badwater Basin.

3. Natural Bridges National Monument (Utah)

The first-ever International Dark-Sky Park, Natural Bridges is renowned for its inky-black skies and dazzling views of the Milky Way. Towering sandstone bridges like Sipapu, Owachomo, and Kachina create a dramatic foreground for celestial displays.

4. Great Basin National Park (Nevada)

Home to Wheeler Peak and some of the oldest bristlecone pines on Earth, Great Basin National Park is a hidden gem for astronomy enthusiasts. Its dry air, high elevation, and remote setting contribute to its exceptional Gold Tier night-sky designation. The park also hosts an annual Astronomy Festival.

5. Central Idaho Dark Sky Reserve (Idaho)

Spanning nearly 1,500 square miles, this is the first—and largest—International Dark Sky Reserve in the U.S. Rugged peaks, alpine lakes, and deep wilderness make for an extraordinary backdrop to crystal-clear starscapes.

6. Grand Canyon National Park & Grand Canyon-Parashant National Monument (Arizona)

The iconic Grand Canyon isn’t just a geological wonder—it’s also an exceptional stargazing destination. Efforts to curb artificial light earned the national park an International Dark Sky Park designation in 2019, while the adjacent Parashant National Monument remains one of the most remote and unlit landscapes in the country.

7. Denali National Park & Preserve (Alaska)

With minimal light pollution, Denali offers stunning night skies for much of the year—except during summer’s midnight sun. From fall to spring, visitors can marvel at the Milky Way and even catch the vibrant aurora borealis.

8. Mauna Kea (Hawaii)

Rising nearly 14,000 feet above sea level, Mauna Kea is one of the best places on Earth for astronomical observations. While its summit is home to world-renowned telescopes, the surrounding areas provide spectacular stargazing for visitors who respect the mountain’s sacred significance to Native Hawaiians.

9. Boundary Waters Canoe Area Wilderness (Minnesota)

Designated an International Dark Sky Sanctuary in 2020, this million-acre wilderness is ideal for stargazing while paddling through pristine lakes and listening to the haunting calls of loons.

10. Katahdin Woods & Waters National Monument (Maine)

Located near Mount Katahdin, this dark-sky sanctuary features undisturbed forests and lakes perfect for nighttime skywatching.

11. Cherry Springs State Park (Pennsylvania)

One of the premier stargazing locations in the eastern U.S., Cherry Springs offers high-altitude views of the Milky Way with minimal light pollution. It was the first International Dark Sky Park in the Northeast.

12. Okefenokee National Wildlife Refuge (Georgia/Florida)

This vast wetland wilderness features some of the darkest skies in the Southeast, with Georgia’s Stephen C. Foster State Park recognized as an International Dark Sky Park.

13. Kissimmee Prairie Preserve State Park (Florida)

A designated International Dark Sky Park, this vast prairie offers unspoiled night views and even a dedicated astronomy camping area for enthusiasts.

For those seeking an escape from the glow of city lights, these destinations promise an unforgettable encounter with the cosmos. Whether hiking to remote peaks or paddling through silent waterways, the universe reveals its wonders most vividly in the darkest corners of the wild.

Andre saker du kanskje liker

LIU Xiang: China's hurdling star at 20

Ever wondered what your favourite sportspeople were like before they were super-mega-famous? Every week Tokyo 2020 will give you a glimpse into what life was like for some of the world’s greatest athletes before they were stars.

Catching the Wind: How Anemometers Measure Air Movement

The word anemometer may sound complex, but its purpose is quite straightforward—it measures wind. Derived from Greek roots, “anem-” means wind, while “-meter” simply means to measure. These instruments appear in weather stations everywhere, from small backyard setups to large-scale meteorological centers. By capturing details about air movement, they help us predict storms, plan outdoor activities, and even understand global climate patterns.

8 Tallest Lighthouses in the United States

Lighthouses symbolize resilience and reliability, guiding sailors and fishermen home while warning them of dangerous coastlines. Standing tall as beacons of hope, they serve as essential landmarks along the shores.

The Epic Story of Magnetic Tape: Past, Present and Future

Imagine a world with no way to preserve voices, music, or digital knowledge. Without magnetic tape, countless speeches, cultural treasures, and scientific breakthroughs might have vanished. This unassuming strip of coated plastic reshaped the way humans record, store, and protect information—and its journey is nothing short of extraordinary.

Top 10 Farm Animals: A Playful Ranking of Agricultural Companions

Dear readers, indulge me as I present to you a whimsical exploration of farm animals, each with its unique charm and quirks. Let's embark on this lighthearted journey together!

The Profound Influence of Technology on Your Everyday Life

In the year 2023, technology permeates nearly every facet of our daily existence, ushering in a multitude of transformations across various domains. From the realms of transport efficiency, food accessibility, and healthcare to socialization, productivity, and the ease of learning, technology has left an indelible imprint on our world. It has not only made knowledge more accessible but has also fostered the organic formation of global communities on the internet.

Top 10 Casual Outfit Ideas for Women 2025

Fashion in 2025 is all about mixing comfort with confidence. Whether it’s a relaxed day at home, a coffee date, or a city stroll, these casual outfit inspirations strike the right balance between trendy and practical. Here are ten standout looks to refresh your wardrobe this year.

Unlocking the Long-Term Rewards of Exercise

Exercise is a powerful elixir for our physical and mental well-being, and its enduring benefits are evident not just immediately, but also in the years to come. Let's delve into the importance of staying active and how it equips us for a healthier, happier future.

Desert Camels

Camels have been domesticated for over 3,000 years, and humans continue to rely on them for transport across dry and arid regions. They can carry up to 200 pounds (90 kilograms) while traveling 20 miles (32 kilometers) a day in the desert. Camels are capable of moving as fast as horses, yet they can survive for long periods without food or water. Beyond transportation, humans have used camels for milk, meat, wool, leather, and even dung as a source of fuel.

The Top 10 Tropical Islands You Should Consider

When you think of paradise, you likely imagine white-sand beaches, crystal-blue water, and palm trees stretching into the horizon. That’s the vibe of a great tropical island — those places where time seems to slow and the stresses of the world fade away. After spending years travelling and exploring many such islands, this list compiles Matt’s favourite and best tropical islands across budgets, travel-styles and interests.