Colusa.
The definitive guide to dark skies and celestial observation in Colusa, CA. Verified using National Park Service and NASA Night Sky Network Clubs data.
Quick Guide for Colusa
- Top Community Pick: Community Observatory (~69.8 miles)
- Best Scientific Reading: Bortle 4.0 at Buckhorn Group Camp
- Local Experts: Sacramento Valley Astronomical Society
- Verified Observations: 5 distinct spots
Searching for a clear window into the cosmos near Colusa, CA? While enthusiasts often gather at Community Observatory for its accessibility, scientific audits conducted by the National Park Service at Buckhorn Group Camp provide the most accurate reading of the regional sky quality, measuring at a Bortle 4.0. Atmospheric stability in the Colusa region is often influenced by local topography, which can help settle the air for high-magnification viewing.
The Best Times for Stargazing in Colusa
For the best results in Colusa, aim for a ‘New Moon’ window. In these dark-sky conditions, the absence of moonlight allows the Milky Way to cast visible shadows.
Expert Tips for Colusa Observers
Because Community Observatory is a developed site, it often features established viewing pads and specialized equipment. 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.
California Guide
Local Top Spots
Community-vetted locations known for clear horizons and accessibility for telescopes and astrophotography.
Community Observatory
" Standard Advice: Dress in layers as temperatures drop quickly after sunset. Use a red-light flashlight to preserve your night vision. "
Folsom Powerhouse State Historic Park
" Standard Advice: Dress in layers as temperatures drop quickly after sunset. Use a red-light flashlight to preserve your night vision. "
Museum of Science and Curiosity (MOSAC)
" Standard Advice: Dress in layers as temperatures drop quickly after sunset. Use a red-light flashlight to preserve your night vision. "
Aerospace Museum of California
" Standard Advice: Dress in layers as temperatures drop quickly after sunset. Use a red-light flashlight to preserve your night vision. "
NASA Event
" 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.
Buckhorn Group Camp
Black Butte Lake RA
"Site on a knoll just northwest of the group camp, excellent monitoring site with easy access. Seeing excellent, transparency poor. Lingering smoke and haze from wildfire, humid. Despite high extinction, an excellent sky near the zenith, with the dark lane in the Cygnus star cloud visible. Northeast through south along the horizon has numerous bright light domes, the brightest of which definitely affects dark adaptation. Early evening sky is much brighter overhead than late, presumably because of outdoor lights being shut off, but airglow decrease also a factor. By early morning, the light domes are seen to extend to less than 45 degrees above the horizon, while in early evening to at least 60 degrees, with only a small area near the zenith lacking a distinct brightness gradient. SQM 21.44 at 9:30 PM (Sales), 21.77 (Duriscoe) 12:30 AM LMT."
Mt. Vision
Point Reyes NS
"Clear and dry, fog off shore. Very good extinction, and strong airglow"
International Dark Sky Parks
Premier locations certified for their exceptional dark sky quality and commitment to light pollution mitigation.
Massacre Rim Wilderness Study Area
Nestled between the Black Rock Desert-High Rock Canyon Emigrant Trails National Conservation Area (BRNCA) and the Sheldon National Wildlife Refuge (SNWR)…
Oregon Caves National Monument and Preserve
Nestled in the heart of the Siskiyou Mountains, Oregon Caves National Monument and Preserve is located in southern Oregon, United States, and provides a gateway…
Local Astronomy Clubs
Connect with experts and fellow enthusiasts through local astronomical societies and community groups.