Ellsworth
Stargazing Guide.
Just 0 miles from the center of Ellsworth, lies some of the region's best viewing at verified local spots. We feature instrumented readings from Cadillac Mountain to guarantee the most accurate sky quality data.
Stargazing Logistics for Ellsworth
- STEP 1. Primary Staging Area: verified local spots. This is your most reliable community-vetted hub within a ~0.0 mile radius.
- STEP 2. Sky Quality Baseline: Classified as Class B (Rural). Use the instrumented 4 rating from Cadillac Mountain as your technical benchmark for the region.
- STEP 3. Local Support: Contact Penobscot Valley Star Gazers for updated site access and group observation schedules.
- STEP 4. Observation Density: There are 0 recognized sites near Ellsworth offering varied horizons and atmospheric stability levels.
Ellsworth acts as a primary gateway to the verified local spots zone. This proximity allows for scientific-grade viewing (Class 4) at Cadillac Mountain just a short 15-minute drive from the city center, making it a rare 'Hub' for serious observers.
The Best Times for Stargazing in Ellsworth
While Winter offers the most consistent clear nights for Ellsworth, wait for the 4-day window surrounding the New Moon each month for the deepest contrast. Since the sun sets early in the late Winter months, you can often begin deep-sky imaging as early as 7 PM.
Expert Tips for Ellsworth Observers
When observing from verified local spots, try to position yourself facing away from the nearest major light dome. For Ellsworth residents, this usually means looking toward the rural horizons of ME to capture the lowest magnitude stars that are normally invisible from the city center. Scientific Context: While local conditions vary, the instrumented reading of Bortle 4 at Cadillac Mountain (20.7 miles away) remains the benchmark for regional sky quality.
Best Spots for Stargazing in Ellsworth
The most accessible and reliable viewing locations in the region, ranked by local observer feedback. To get the most out of these verified spots, ensure your mobile reconnaissance kit is ready for Ellsworth's local horizons.
2026 Celestial Roadmap for Ellsworth
Rural conditions near Ellsworth provide excellent contrast for the Milky Way and bright star clusters.
Sky Quality Reports for Ellsworth
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.
Cadillac Mountain
Acadia NP
Local Relevance
For observers in Ellsworth, Cadillac Mountain serves as the definitive baseline for high-altitude transparency and localized skyglow data.
"12 sec exposure for first and second, 6 sec exposure for third. First successful night after many tries. Conditions getting darker as night went on (probably due to extinction). Beautiful night, estimate conditions in top 20% of air quality conditions. Bangor-Ellsworth brightest glow, but Bar Harbor light visibly extends high into the NE sky. Surprised Portland and Augusta not visible."
Cadillac Mountain
Acadia NP
Local Relevance
For observers in Ellsworth, Cadillac Mountain serves as the definitive baseline for high-altitude transparency and localized skyglow data.
"Atmosphere slightly less transparent than data 2 nights previous. Peak brightness toward ocean (SE) slightly higher in altitude than previous run. Still resolved 6.2 stars naked eye. Sky Quality Meter readings of 21.20 improving to 21.29 by end of data run."
Dark Sky Oasis near Ellsworth
Elite viewing locations officially recognized by DarkSky International for their pristine celestial environments. Experience the full, pristine depth of these IDA certified skies with the precision stargazing gear we recommend for Ellsworth residents.
AMC Maine Woods
The protected skies at AMC Maine Woods represent a vital astronomical asset for the Ellsworth observing community.
Maine, U.S.A. More info
Katahdin Woods and Waters National Monument
As one of the closest certified environments to Ellsworth, Katahdin Woods and Waters National Monument offers a rare window into the true depth of the Milky Way.
Patten, ME 04765 U.S.
Astronomy Clubs for Ellsworth
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 Ellsworth Nights
"The proximity of verified spots to Ellsworth means thermal equilibrium is your biggest gear factor. Set your gear outside in Ellsworth early so it's ready the moment you arrive at the eyepiece."
The Ellsworth Field Kit
When observing near Ellsworth, the local atmospheric stability and the immediate access to verified hubs are your primary logistical factors. The difference between the Ellsworth city center and the instrumented readings at sites 0 miles away is staggering, requiring optics that can handle both glare and deep contrast. We've curated a specific progression of gear—from entry-level comfort to dedicated imaging hubs—to help you maximize every clear night.