Brush
Stargazing Guide.
Just 26.1 miles from the center of Brush, lies some of the region's best viewing at Jackson Lake State Park. We feature instrumented readings from Coyote Ridge to guarantee the most accurate sky quality data.
Stargazing Logistics for Brush
- STEP 1. Primary Staging Area: Jackson Lake State Park. This is your most reliable community-vetted hub within a ~26.1 mile radius.
- STEP 2. Sky Quality Baseline: Classified as Class C (Suburban). Use the instrumented 6 rating from Coyote Ridge as your technical benchmark for the region.
- STEP 3. Local Support: Contact Brighton Astronomy Group for updated site access and group observation schedules.
- STEP 4. Observation Density: There are 3 recognized sites near Brush offering varied horizons and atmospheric stability levels.
Brush is positioned in a strategic 'Starlight Corridor.' It is far enough from the CO metro glare to allow for deep-sky imaging, yet serves as a convenient staging area for the deeper Class 6 skies found at Coyote Ridge.
The Best Times for Stargazing in Brush
For the best experience, target the late-night window between 1 AM and 4 AM in Brush. This is when local industrial lighting and residential 'sky glow' is at its minimum, and the most prominent Winter constellations are directly overhead at the zenith.
Expert Tips for Brush Observers
Don't underestimate the power of peripheral vision (averted vision). At sites near Brush, looking slightly to the side of a faint nebula will reveal much more detail than looking directly at it, especially when dealing with the Class 5+ suburban skies of the CO region. Scientific Context: While local conditions vary, the instrumented reading of Bortle 6 at Coyote Ridge (79.7 miles away) remains the benchmark for regional sky quality.
Best Spots for Stargazing in Brush
The most accessible and reliable viewing locations in the region, ranked by local observer feedback. Max out your local session by using the essential observer gear staged for the Brush environment.
Jackson Lake State Park
" A manageable drive from Brush, this spot is a reliable regional favorite. Equipment Logic: Small aperture telescopes are actually more resilient to localized heat currents than large ones on suburban nights. "
Fossil Creek Reservoir
" For the dedicated Brush observer, this spot offers a superior escape from light pollution. 'Dress for temperatures ~20F colder than forecast low for the night. If you need a flashlight, please cover it with red cellophane.' "
Poudre Learning Center
" For the dedicated Brush observer, this spot offers a superior escape from light pollution. Veteran Pro-Tip: Avoid using your phone's white screen. Even with low brightness, it resets your eye's Rhodopsin levels instantly. "
2026 Celestial Roadmap for Brush
Urban viewing is best for high-contrast targets. Head to Jackson Lake State Park to escape local glare.
Sky Quality Reports for Brush
Access high-precision SQM readings from the National Park Service, providing the definitive baseline for regional darkness quality. Discover which telescopes can best cut through the remaining regional skyglow to see these scientific targets by viewing our gear recommendations.
Coyote Ridge
Fort Collins Natural Area
Local Relevance
For observers in Brush, Coyote Ridge serves as the definitive baseline for high-altitude transparency and localized skyglow data.
"Resolution Testing. 3 data sets collected in order to determine vertical and horizontal illuminance"
Center Road
Fort Collins
Local Relevance
The scientific findings at Center Road provide Brush residents with the most reliable data on regional atmospheric stability.
"Attempted to block the brightest sources. No natural sky to observe, as light scatter was visible to zenith."
Dark Sky Oasis near Brush
Elite viewing locations officially recognized by DarkSky International for their pristine celestial environments. Certified dark skies like these are most rewarding when paired with the right aperture. Check out our suggested kit for Brush observers.
Jackson Lake State Park
As one of the closest certified environments to Brush, Jackson Lake State Park offers a rare window into the true depth of the Milky Way.
Jackson Lake State Park 26363 Count Rd 3 Orchard, CO 80649
Florissant Fossil Beds National Monument
As one of the closest certified environments to Brush, Florissant Fossil Beds National Monument offers a rare window into the true depth of the Milky Way.
15807 Co Rd 1 P.O. Box 185 Florissant, CO 80816 USA
Astronomy Clubs for Brush
Join the local community of observers for group viewing events, equipment swaps, and technical workshops. Planning to join a local session? Make sure you have the essentials ready by checking our starter kit recommendations.
Gearing Up for Brush Nights
"For the extended excursion from Brush, prioritize "travel-ready" optics. A 4.5-inch reflector or 70mm refractor provides the perfect balance of discovery power and trunk-space efficiency."
The Brush Field Kit
Designing a field kit for Brush requires understanding the specific transition from urban skyglow to the regional suburban benchmarks. Since Jackson Lake State Park offers a specific Class 6 horizon, your equipment needs to be calibrated for the unique transparency found in this part of the state. The following levels represent a logical path for growing your observatory without over-complicating your local field sessions.