Benton.
The definitive guide to dark skies and celestial observation in Benton, AR. Verified using National Park Service and NASA Night Sky Network Clubs data.
Quick Guide for Benton
- Top Community Pick: Oley E Rooker Library (~10.0 miles)
- Best Scientific Reading: Bortle 4.0 at Veterans Lake
- Local Experts: Central Arkansas Astronomical Society
- Verified Observations: 5 distinct spots
If you’re looking to escape the light pollution of Benton, you’re in luck. While enthusiasts often gather at Oley E Rooker Library for its accessibility, scientific audits conducted by the National Park Service at Veterans Lake provide the most accurate reading of the regional sky quality, measuring at a Bortle 4.0. The transition between the urban infrastructure of Benton and the more rural stretches of AR creates several ‘dark sky’ corridors.
The Best Times for Stargazing in Benton
Since Benton 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 Benton Observers
Before heading out to Oley E Rooker Library, we recommend arriving during civil twilight to scout the terrain safely. Binoculars are a favorite for regulars the site for sweeping views of the Moon’s craters and larger constellations. 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.
Arkansas Guide
Local Top Spots
Community-vetted locations known for clear horizons and accessibility for telescopes and astrophotography.
Oley E Rooker Library
" Next, we will go over the features of the library's loaner Orion Star blast tabletop telescope so you can look at the moon with this easy to use Newtonian reflector. If the sky is clear, we'll go outside to the parking lot and see what we can see with our eyes and also use the volunteers' telescopes. "
River Ridge Observatory
" 'Please consider bringing a red lensed flashlight. "
Pinnacle Mountain State Park
" {'Meet at the arboretum'} "
Adolphine Fletcher Terry Library
" 'Please consider bringing a red lensed flashlight. "
Two Rivers 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.
Veterans Lake
Chickasaw NRA
"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."
Buckhorn Parking Lot
Chickasaw NRA
"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."
International Dark Sky Parks
Premier locations certified for their exceptional dark sky quality and commitment to light pollution mitigation.
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Local Astronomy Clubs
Connect with experts and fellow enthusiasts through local astronomical societies and community groups.