Rolla.
The definitive guide to dark skies and celestial observation in Rolla, MO. Verified using National Park Service and NASA Night Sky Network Clubs data.
Quick Guide for Rolla
- Top Community Pick: Jefferson College Observatory (~69.1 miles)
- Best Scientific Reading: Bortle 6.0 at Log Cabins
- Local Experts: Astronomical Society of Eastern Missouri
- Verified Observations: 5 distinct spots
If you’re looking to escape the light pollution of Rolla, you’re in luck. While enthusiasts often gather at Jefferson College Observatory for its accessibility, scientific audits conducted by the National Park Service at Log Cabins provide the most accurate reading of the regional sky quality, measuring at a Bortle 6.0. The local landscape of Rolla offers several pockets of darkness that are perfect for deep-sky observation.
The Best Times for Stargazing in Rolla
Since Rolla 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 Rolla Observers
Because Jefferson College Observatory is a developed site, it often features established viewing pads and specialized equipment. For the best views the site, try to observe targets when they are highest in the sky to minimize atmospheric interference. 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.
Missouri Guide
Local Top Spots
Community-vetted locations known for clear horizons and accessibility for telescopes and astrophotography.
Jefferson College Observatory
" 'Join Jefferson College staff and St Louis Astronomical Society members for public telescope viewing at the Jeffersn College Observatory site. Events before it gets dark - Tour of observatory site - Training on how to read a star map - Library Telescope and Binocular Training Events after dark - Live telescope viewing - Laser guided constellation tours Bad weather or clouds could cancel the live event: - If so, a virtual event held on Facebook and Zoom - Check Jefferson College Observatory Facebook page one day prior to the event Bring: - Masks and hand sanitizer - Chairs and warm clothes - Binoculars and red flashlights', '5th grade from Hazelwood School district will visit Jefferson College Observatory', 'Join Jefferson College staff and St Louis Astronomical Society members for public telescope viewing at the Jeffersn College Observatory site. "
St. Louis County Library Eureka Hills Branch
" Have you ever wanted to view the night sky through a telescope? And even better, learn to operate the telescope yourself? "
Wicked Pony Ranch
" Standard Advice: Dress in layers as temperatures drop quickly after sunset. Use a red-light flashlight to preserve your night vision. "
S-F Scout Ranch
" Standard Advice: Dress in layers as temperatures drop quickly after sunset. Use a red-light flashlight to preserve your night vision. "
Wyman Center
" 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.
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"
Astro Program Hill
Tallgrass Prairie NPres
"Emporia is brightest light dome on the horizon. Clear night, no clouds. Fair transparency"
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.