Edna.

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

Bortle Scale
5
Best Regional Reading
Sky Quality
20.54
SQM Zenith Value
Verified Sites
5
Community Vetted
Dark Sky Parks
2
IDA Certified Nearby

Quick Guide for Edna

  • Top Community Pick: George Observatory (~56.9 miles)
  • Best Scientific Reading: Bortle 5.0 at Rancho de Las Cabras
  • Local Experts: Fort Bend Astronomy Club
  • Verified Observations: 5 distinct spots

Searching for a clear window into the cosmos near Edna, TX? While enthusiasts often gather at George Observatory for its accessibility, scientific audits conducted by the National Park Service at Rancho de Las Cabras provide the most accurate reading of the regional sky quality, measuring at a Bortle 5.0. The transition between the urban infrastructure of Edna and the more rural stretches of TX creates several ‘dark sky’ corridors.

The Best Times for Stargazing in Edna

Since Edna 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 Edna Observers

Because George 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.

Local Top Spots

Community-vetted locations known for clear horizons and accessibility for telescopes and astrophotography.

Premier Verified Hub Confidence: 100%

George Observatory

56.9 mi
Distance

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

Needville, TX 77461
Get Directions
Active Viewing Spot Confidence: 82.5%

Brazos Bend State Park

56.9 mi
Distance

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

Needville, TX 77461
Get Directions
Active Viewing Spot Confidence: 77.5%

Camp Karankawa - Sweeny, TX

57.6 mi
Distance

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

Sweeny, TX 77480
Get Directions
Active Viewing Spot Confidence: 80%

Angleton Lakeside Park

74.7 mi
Distance

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

Angleton, TX 77515
Get Directions
Active Viewing Spot Confidence: 67.5%

Randle High School

64.9 mi
Distance

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

Richmond, TX 77469
Get Directions
Scientific Audit

NPS Sky Measurements

Instrumented readings from the National Park Service Night Sky Program, providing the most accurate SQM and Bortle classifications.

Rancho de Las Cabras

San Antonio Missions NHP

19.96 SQM
Bortle Class 5

"Sky near the horizon looks bright all the way around. The biggest and brightest light dome comes from the northwest. The light dome extends all the way to zenith. Red flashing lights to the northeast. Milky Way looks faint overhead and is invisible below 45 degrees in altitude."

Observation Date
10/25/2019
Elevation
126m
Zenith Brightness
20.31

Bird Island Boat Ramp

Padre Island NS

20.54 SQM
Bortle Class 5

"Sky quality measurements were recorded at Bird Island Boat Ramp in Padre Island NS on 3/29/2009. The site demonstrated a scientific darkness reading of 20.54 SQM."

Observation Date
3/29/2009
Elevation
1m
Zenith Brightness
20.89

International Dark Sky Parks

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

IDA Certified Distance: 112.0 miles

Wimberley Valley, Texas

The cities of Wimberley and Woodcreek (collectively known as “Wimberley Valley”), are neighboring incorporated municipalities in Hays County, Texas, U.S.

Category
International Dark Sky Community
Certified
2018
Land Area
97.6 km2
Coordinates
29.9968, -98.0954
IDA Certified Distance: 113.1 miles

Shield Ranch Barton Creek

Shield Ranch Barton Creek is located 18 miles west of downtown Austin, Texas, USA, nestled in the Hill Country of Central Texas. It is a 6,400…

Category
Urban Night Sky Place
Certified
2024
Land Area
25.9 Sq. Km
Coordinates
30.2700, -97.8000

Local Astronomy Clubs

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

NASA Night Sky Club ID
#413

Fort Bend Astronomy Club

Sugar Land, TX

NASA Night Sky Club ID
#262

Brazosport Astronomy Club

Clute, TX