Crockett.

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

Bortle Scale
3
Best Regional Reading
Sky Quality
21.31
SQM Zenith Value
Verified Sites
5
Community Vetted
Dark Sky Parks
2
IDA Certified Nearby

Quick Guide for Crockett

  • Top Community Pick: Challenger 7 memorial park (~4.1 miles)
  • Best Scientific Reading: Bortle 5.0 at Lance Rosier Unit
  • Local Experts: Huntsville Amateur Astronomy Society
  • Verified Observations: 5 distinct spots

Searching for a clear window into the cosmos near Crockett, TX? While enthusiasts often gather at Challenger 7 memorial park for its accessibility, scientific audits conducted by the National Park Service at Lance Rosier Unit provide the most accurate reading of the regional sky quality, measuring at a Bortle 5.0. The transition between the urban infrastructure of Crockett and the more rural stretches of TX creates several ‘dark sky’ corridors.

The Best Times for Stargazing in Crockett

Since Crockett 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 Crockett Observers

When visiting Challenger 7 memorial park, remember to check if the gates close at sunset or if a night-use permit is required. For the best views the site, 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.

Active Viewing Spot Confidence: 77.5%

Challenger 7 memorial park

4.1 mi
Distance

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

Houston, TX 77596
Get Directions
Active Viewing Spot Confidence: 80%

Downtown Bryan, TX

70.3 mi
Distance

" {'Cancelled due to weather.'} "

Bryan, TX 77803
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Active Viewing Spot Confidence: 77.5%

TAMU Teaching Observatory

71.5 mi
Distance

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

College Station, TX 77845
Get Directions
Active Viewing Spot Confidence: 77.5%

Blackjack Pavillion, Tyler State Park

72 mi
Distance

" {'Come join ASET for a star party under the night sky at the Blackjack Pavilion. "

Tyler, TX NaN
Get Directions
Active Viewing Spot Confidence: 72.5%

Park Store

72 mi
Distance

" To see ASET come check us out at the Area behind the Park Store (aka the Silver Canoe).' "

Tyler, TX 75706
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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.

Lance Rosier Unit

Big Thicket N PRES

20.53 SQM
Bortle Class 5

"Lots of trees blocking the horizon. Clear sky. There is an oil and gas field at the end of the road. Sky looks brightest towards WSW. The light dome extends all the way to zenith. Milky Way looks faint overhead."

Observation Date
10/27/2019
Elevation
27m
Zenith Brightness
20.86

LBJ Ranch Dales Trap

Lyndon Johnson NHP

21.31 SQM
Bortle Class 3

"Sky quality measurements were recorded at LBJ Ranch Dales Trap in Lyndon Johnson NHP on 4/1/2005. The site demonstrated a scientific darkness reading of 21.31 SQM."

Observation Date
4/1/2005
Elevation
460m
Zenith Brightness
21.71

International Dark Sky Parks

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

IDA Certified Distance: 152.9 miles

Liberty Hill, Texas

Known for its limestone hills, oak woodlands, and wide-open skies, Liberty Hill has long cherished its rural roots and starlit nights.

Category
International Dark Sky Community
Certified
2025
Land Area
12 km²
Coordinates
30.6649, -97.9225
IDA Certified Distance: 154.0 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

Local Astronomy Clubs

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

NASA Night Sky Club ID
#463

Huntsville Amateur Astronomy Society

Huntsville, TX

NASA Night Sky Club ID
#171

Brazos Region Astronomy Service Society

Bryan, TX