Atlanta.

The definitive guide to dark skies and celestial observation in Atlanta, TX. Verified using National Park Service and NASA Night Sky Network Clubs data.

Bortle Scale
4
Best Regional Reading
Sky Quality
20.86
SQM Zenith Value
Verified Sites
2
Community Vetted
Dark Sky Parks
2
IDA Certified Nearby

Quick Guide for Atlanta

  • Top Community Pick: Lewisville Public Library (~38.0 miles)
  • Best Scientific Reading: Bortle 4.0 at Buckhorn Parking Lot
  • Local Experts: Astronomical Society of East Texas
  • Verified Observations: 2 distinct spots

Searching for a clear window into the cosmos near Atlanta, TX? While enthusiasts often gather at Lewisville Public Library for its accessibility, scientific audits conducted by the National Park Service at Buckhorn Parking Lot provide the most accurate reading of the regional sky quality, measuring at a Bortle 4.0. The local landscape of Atlanta offers several pockets of darkness that are perfect for deep-sky observation.

The Best Times for Stargazing in Atlanta

Since Atlanta 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 Atlanta Observers

Before heading out to Lewisville Public Library, we recommend arriving during civil twilight to scout the terrain safely. For the best views at this spot, try to observe targets when they are highest in the sky to minimize atmospheric interference. 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.

Local Top Spots

Community-vetted locations known for clear horizons and accessibility for telescopes and astrophotography.

Community Gathering Point Confidence: 42.5%

Lewisville Public Library

38 mi
Distance

" Standard Advice: Dress in layers as temperatures drop quickly after sunset. Use a red-light flashlight to preserve your night vision. "

Lewisville, AR 71845
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Documented Location Confidence: 37.5%

Glaske Science and Engineering Building

53.9 mi
Distance

" Standard Advice: Dress in layers as temperatures drop quickly after sunset. Use a red-light flashlight to preserve your night vision. "

Longview, TX 75602
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Scientific Audit

NPS Sky Measurements

Instrumented readings from the National Park Service Night Sky Program, providing the most accurate SQM and Bortle classifications.

Buckhorn Parking Lot

Chickasaw NRA

20.86 SQM
Bortle Class 4

"Sky looks hazy during the day. At night, sky right above the horizon looks bright in all direction. Light pollution extends to about 60 degrees above the horizon. Milky Way was still impressive right overhead but becomes invisible at about 20 degrees from the horizon."

Observation Date
7/26/2019
Elevation
280m
Zenith Brightness
21.29

Veterans Lake

Chickasaw NRA

20.37 SQM
Bortle Class 4

"Clear sky. The area right above the horizon appears bright from all the directions. Milky Way is impressive overhead but lasks the details of the bright/dark structure. Light dome extends up to about 60 degrees above the horizon."

Observation Date
7/25/2019
Elevation
295m
Zenith Brightness
20.52

International Dark Sky Parks

Premier locations certified for their exceptional dark sky quality and commitment to light pollution mitigation.

IDA Certified Distance: 162.2 miles

Lakewood Village, Texas

On April 26, 1977, Lakewood Village was officially incorporated as The Town of Lakewood Village, Texas. Located in the northern part of the Dallas/Ft.

Category
International Dark Sky Community
Certified
2019
Land Area
1.9 km2
Coordinates
33.1426, -96.9695
IDA Certified Distance: 208.0 miles

Buffalo National River

The Buffalo National River is a free-flowing stream passing through towering picturesque bluffs, forests, and fields in North Central Arkansas in the Ozark…

Category
International Dark Sky Park
Certified
2019
Land Area
396.2 km2
Coordinates
36.0401, -93.3098

Local Astronomy Clubs

Connect with experts and fellow enthusiasts through local astronomical societies and community groups.

NASA Night Sky Club ID
#482

Astronomical Society of East Texas

Tyler, TX

NASA Night Sky Club ID
#133

Acorn Jr. Science Club

Mena, AR