Portland.
The definitive guide to dark skies and celestial observation in Portland, TN. Verified using National Park Service and NASA Night Sky Network Clubs data.
Quick Guide for Portland
- Top Community Pick: Thompson Hall rooftop observatory Western Kentucky University (~28.1 miles)
- Best Scientific Reading: Bortle 4.0 at Houchin’s Field
- Local Experts: Cumberland Astronomical Society
- Verified Observations: 5 distinct spots
Searching for a clear window into the cosmos near Portland, TN? While enthusiasts often gather at Thompson Hall rooftop observatory Western Kentucky University for its accessibility, scientific audits conducted by the National Park Service at Houchin’s Field provide the most accurate reading of the regional sky quality, measuring at a Bortle 4.0. The transition between the urban infrastructure of Portland and the more rural stretches of TN creates several ‘dark sky’ corridors.
The Best Times for Stargazing in Portland
Since Portland 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 Portland Observers
Because Thompson Hall rooftop observatory Western Kentucky University is a developed site, it often features established viewing pads and specialized equipment. Binoculars are a favorite for regulars this location 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.
Tennessee Guide
Local Top Spots
Community-vetted locations known for clear horizons and accessibility for telescopes and astrophotography.
Thompson Hall rooftop observatory Western Kentucky University
" Standard Advice: Dress in layers as temperatures drop quickly after sunset. Use a red-light flashlight to preserve your night vision. "
Edwin Warner Park Events Field
" {'Be awed by the celestial beauty of the night sky. "
Cornelia Fort Airpark
" 'Park at the Airpark and telescopes will be set up on the tarmac.' "
Shelby Bottoms Nature Center
" Standard Advice: Dress in layers as temperatures drop quickly after sunset. Use a red-light flashlight to preserve your night vision. "
Warner Park Fields
" 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.
Houchin's Field
Mammoth Cave NP
"A very calm, humid and clear night. Dewfall occurred during data collection, however dew heater prevented lens fog. Multiple light domes evident from site, as well as a continuous glow along horizon in all directions. Airglow was present. Andromeda galaxy easily visible, Beehive (Pegasus) visible with medium effort. Prominent dust lanes in Milky Way visible at zenith, but not below ~50 degrees. Limiting magnitude found in Pegasus."
Log Cabins
Fort Donelson NB
"SQM of 20.47 at 2035 local time. Only fair transparency and seeing. Some fast moving clouds. High humidity. Milky Way visible from 20 degrees above north horizon. Great rift visible, Saggitarius cloud not easily visible, Scutum cloud not visible. Milky Way about 10-12 degrees wide, but faint and no fine details. To the NW a blue white light dome easily seen. Due East is the Clarksville lightdome almost 25 degrees high and 15 degrees wide. Core is bright. Adjacent to the light dome is a spotlight (which we determined was coming from the cemetary here in FODO park). To the West and Southwest is another lightdome fainter than Clarksville, but brighter than the Milky Way"
International Dark Sky Parks
Premier locations certified for their exceptional dark sky quality and commitment to light pollution mitigation.
Mammoth Cave National Park
Named for the enormity of its “mammoth” subterranean vaults and the unparalleled extent of its passages, Mammoth Cave National Park is the longest known cave…
Pickett CCC Memorial State Park & Pogue Creek Canyon State Natural Area
Pickett-Pogue International Dark Sky Park is composed of 1,618 hectares of land jointly managed by the Tennessee Department of Environment and Conservation and…
Local Astronomy Clubs
Connect with experts and fellow enthusiasts through local astronomical societies and community groups.