Gladstone.
The definitive guide to dark skies and celestial observation in Gladstone, OR. Verified using National Park Service and NASA Night Sky Network Clubs data.
Quick Guide for Gladstone
- Top Community Pick: cruise ship (~17.3 miles)
- Best Scientific Reading: Bortle 4 at Burroughs Mountain
- Local Experts: Rose City Astronomers
- Verified Observations: 2 distinct spots
If you’re looking to escape the light pollution of Gladstone, you’re in luck. While enthusiasts often gather at cruise ship for its accessibility, scientific audits conducted by the National Park Service at Burroughs Mountain provide the most accurate reading of the regional sky quality, measuring at a Bortle 4. The local landscape of Gladstone offers several pockets of darkness that are perfect for deep-sky observation.
The Best Times for Stargazing in Gladstone
For the best results in Gladstone, 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 Gladstone Observers
Before heading out to cruise ship, we recommend arriving during civil twilight to scout the terrain safely. Binoculars are a favorite for regulars here 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.
Oregon Guide
Local Top Spots
Community-vetted locations known for clear horizons and accessibility for telescopes and astrophotography.
cruise ship
" Standard Advice: Dress in layers as temperatures drop quickly after sunset. Use a red-light flashlight to preserve your night vision. "
Sasquatch Family Farms
" 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.
Burroughs Mountain
Mount Rainier NP
"Sky quality measurements were recorded at Burroughs Mountain in Mount Rainier NP on 8/13/2007. The site demonstrated a scientific darkness reading of 21.28 SQM."
Plummer Peak
Mount Rainier NP
"Considerable detail visible in Milky Way, including dust lanes of Cygnus. M31 an easy averted, but difficult direct vision object. Faint shadows are cast by the light of Seattle/Tacoma. High humidity visible in valley below (settling into a very thin fog). Coastal cloud wall evident to west. ZLM of 6.4 seen in Auriga. SQM: 21.12 (1st), 21.08 (2nd), 21.17 (3rd)."
International Dark Sky Parks
Premier locations certified for their exceptional dark sky quality and commitment to light pollution mitigation.
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Local Astronomy Clubs
Connect with experts and fellow enthusiasts through local astronomical societies and community groups.