Campbellsville.
The definitive guide to dark skies and celestial observation in Campbellsville, KY. Verified using National Park Service and NASA Night Sky Network Clubs data.
Quick Guide for Campbellsville
- Top Community Pick: Thompson Hall rooftop observatory Western Kentucky University (~64.8 miles)
- Best Scientific Reading: Bortle 4.0 at Houchin’s Field
- Local Experts: Hilltopper Astronomy Club
- Verified Observations: 2 distinct spots
Stargazing in Campbellsville is surprisingly rewarding if you know exactly where to set up your tripod. While enthusiasts often gather at Thompson Hall rooftop observatory Western Kentucky University for its accessibility, scientific audits conducted by the National Park Service at Houchin’s Field provide the most accurate reading of the regional sky quality, measuring at a Bortle 4.0. The transition between the urban infrastructure of Campbellsville and the more rural stretches of KY creates several ‘dark sky’ corridors.
The Best Times for Stargazing in Campbellsville
Since Campbellsville 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 Campbellsville Observers
Because Thompson Hall rooftop observatory Western Kentucky University is a developed site, it often features established viewing pads and specialized equipment. A medium-aperture telescope is ideal for resolving the rings of Saturn and bright star clusters at this spot. 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.
Kentucky Guide
Local Top Spots
Community-vetted locations known for clear horizons and accessibility for telescopes and astrophotography.
Thompson Hall rooftop observatory Western Kentucky University
" Standard Advice: Dress in layers as temperatures drop quickly after sunset. Use a red-light flashlight to preserve your night vision. "
Hardin Planetarium
" 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.
Houchin's Field
Mammoth Cave NP
"A very calm, humid and clear night. Dewfall occurred during data collection, however dew heater prevented lens fog. Multiple light domes evident from site, as well as a continuous glow along horizon in all directions. Airglow was present. Andromeda galaxy easily visible, Beehive (Pegasus) visible with medium effort. Prominent dust lanes in Milky Way visible at zenith, but not below ~50 degrees. Limiting magnitude found in Pegasus."
Cades Cove
Great Smoky Mountains NP
"This was a very clear night. High humidity. Trees covered all of horizon from this site, but light scatter was evident to the north and west especially. LZM found in Pegasus. Moderate Milky Way detail was visible. M31 easily visible, M33 a difficult averted vision object. Airglow likely strong."
International Dark Sky Parks
Premier locations certified for their exceptional dark sky quality and commitment to light pollution mitigation.
Mammoth Cave National Park
Named for the enormity of its “mammoth” subterranean vaults and the unparalleled extent of its passages, Mammoth Cave National Park is the longest known cave…
Obed Wild and Scenic River
Obed Wild and Scenic River consists of about 2,020 hectares of land within roughly 400 meters on either side of the Obed River in Tennessee, U.S.
Local Astronomy Clubs
Connect with experts and fellow enthusiasts through local astronomical societies and community groups.