Radcliff.
The definitive guide to dark skies and celestial observation in Radcliff, KY. Verified using National Park Service and NASA Night Sky Network Clubs data.
Quick Guide for Radcliff
- Top Community Pick: Thompson Hall rooftop observatory Western Kentucky University (~63.6 miles)
- Best Scientific Reading: Bortle 4.0 at Houchin’s Field
- Local Experts: Louisville Astronomical Society
- Verified Observations: 5 distinct spots
Stargazing in Radcliff is surprisingly rewarding if you know exactly where to set up your tripod. 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 Radcliff and the more rural stretches of KY creates several ‘dark sky’ corridors.
The Best Times for Stargazing in Radcliff
Since Radcliff 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 Radcliff 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 at this spot 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.
Kentucky 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. "
Patoka Lake Newton-Stewart Beach
" Standard Advice: Dress in layers as temperatures drop quickly after sunset. Use a red-light flashlight to preserve your night vision. "
Dubois 4H Fairgrounds
" Standard Advice: Dress in layers as temperatures drop quickly after sunset. Use a red-light flashlight to preserve your night vision. "
Hardin Planetarium
" Standard Advice: Dress in layers as temperatures drop quickly after sunset. Use a red-light flashlight to preserve your night vision. "
Dubois Library
" 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…
Obed Wild and Scenic River
Obed Wild and Scenic River consists of about 2,020 hectares of land within roughly 400 meters on either side of the Obed River in Tennessee, U.S.
Local Astronomy Clubs
Connect with experts and fellow enthusiasts through local astronomical societies and community groups.