Anthony.
The definitive guide to dark skies and celestial observation in Anthony, NM. Verified using National Park Service and NASA Night Sky Network Clubs data.
Quick Guide for Anthony
- Top Community Pick: Leasburg Dam State Park (~23.3 miles)
- Best Scientific Reading: Bortle 5 at North Mountain
- Local Experts: Astronomical Society of Las Cruces
- Verified Observations: 5 distinct spots
Searching for a clear window into the cosmos near Anthony, NM? While enthusiasts often gather at Leasburg Dam State Park for its accessibility, scientific audits conducted by the National Park Service at North Mountain provide the most accurate reading of the regional sky quality, measuring at a Bortle 5. The local landscape of Anthony offers several pockets of darkness that are perfect for deep-sky observation.
The Best Times for Stargazing in Anthony
Since Anthony sits in a transitional light zone, viewing is best during the New Moon or after midnight when some commercial lighting is reduced.
Expert Tips for Anthony Observers
When visiting Leasburg Dam State Park, remember to check if the gates close at sunset or if a night-use permit is required. A medium-aperture telescope is ideal for resolving the rings of Saturn and bright star clusters the site. Local enthusiasts often frequent this spot, making it a great place to meet experienced observers. Regardless of your gear, allow 30 minutes for your eyes to fully dark-adapt.
New Mexico Guide
Local Top Spots
Community-vetted locations known for clear horizons and accessibility for telescopes and astrophotography.
Leasburg Dam State Park
" Standard Advice: Dress in layers as temperatures drop quickly after sunset. Use a red-light flashlight to preserve your night vision. "
Plaza De Las Cruces
" Standard Advice: Dress in layers as temperatures drop quickly after sunset. Use a red-light flashlight to preserve your night vision. "
Tombaugh Observatory
" Standard Advice: Dress in layers as temperatures drop quickly after sunset. Use a red-light flashlight to preserve your night vision. "
Chihuahuan Desert Nature Park
" Standard Advice: Dress in layers as temperatures drop quickly after sunset. Use a red-light flashlight to preserve your night vision. "
Young Park
" Standard Advice: Dress in layers as temperatures drop quickly after sunset. Use a red-light flashlight to preserve your night vision. "
NPS Sky Measurements
Instrumented readings from the National Park Service Night Sky Program, providing the most accurate SQM and Bortle classifications.
North Mountain
Hueco Tanks State Park
"Clear skies"
Amphitheater
White Sands NP
"The largest light dome is from due south and extends to about 20 degrees above the horizon. The second largest light dome is from southwest. It is much smaller and extends to about 10 degrees above the horizon. Zodiacal light is prominent up to least 45 degrees above the horizon. The winter Milky Way stretches almost from horizon to horizon. Direct glare sources are from due east where the air force space has bright solid white light."
International Dark Sky Parks
Premier locations certified for their exceptional dark sky quality and commitment to light pollution mitigation.
Salinas Pueblo Missions National Monument
Salinas Pueblo Missions National Monuments is a 436- hectare (1,077-acre) historic site in central New Mexico, U.S., managed by the National Park Service.
Chiricahua National Monument
Chiricahua National Monument is a 48.5 square kilometer IUCN category V protected area located in the Chiricahua Mountains of southeastern Arizona.
Local Astronomy Clubs
Connect with experts and fellow enthusiasts through local astronomical societies and community groups.