Winslow.
The definitive guide to dark skies and celestial observation in Winslow, AZ. Verified using National Park Service and NASA Night Sky Network Clubs data.
Quick Guide for Winslow
- Top Community Pick: Winslow Homolovi Observatory (~0.7 miles)
- Best Scientific Reading: Bortle 3.0 at CTA site
- Local Experts: Little Colorado River Valley Astronomy Club
- Verified Observations: 5 distinct spots
Stargazing in Winslow is surprisingly rewarding if you know exactly where to set up your tripod. While enthusiasts often gather at Winslow Homolovi Observatory for its accessibility, scientific audits conducted by the National Park Service at CTA site provide the most accurate reading of the regional sky quality, measuring at a Bortle 3.0. The transition between the urban infrastructure of Winslow and the more rural stretches of AZ creates several ‘dark sky’ corridors.
The Best Times for Stargazing in Winslow
For the best results in Winslow, 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 Winslow Observers
Because Winslow Homolovi 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.
Arizona Guide
Local Top Spots
Community-vetted locations known for clear horizons and accessibility for telescopes and astrophotography.
Winslow Homolovi Observatory
" Standard Advice: Dress in layers as temperatures drop quickly after sunset. Use a red-light flashlight to preserve your night vision. "
Homolovi State Park
" View planets, deep space nebula and more through the Moore Telescope at the Winslow Homolovi Observatory at Homolovi State Park in Winslow, Arizona. For latest events visit us online at azstateparks.com/stars and lcrvac.org' "
Homolovi State Park Winslow Homolovi Observatory
" Standard Advice: Dress in layers as temperatures drop quickly after sunset. Use a red-light flashlight to preserve your night vision. "
Shadow Pines Camp
" Standard Advice: Dress in layers as temperatures drop quickly after sunset. Use a red-light flashlight to preserve your night vision. "
Red Rock State Park
" 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.
CTA site
Meteor Crater (private)
"Calm and clear. Glare from car and train headlights significant. Winslow light dome bright at core, brighter than the brightest parts of the Milky Way. Airglow moderate as judged from gradient with Zenith angle but the Zenith does not appear dark. ZLM 6.8 with difficulty, possibly because of glare sources around the horizon. Phoenix light dome appears to dim significantly as night progresses. Gegenschein seen with difficulty near midnight. Zodiacal band just slightly seen through Aries at 2 AM."
Anderson Mesa, Ashurst Lake
Coconino NF
"Sky quality measurements were recorded at Anderson Mesa, Ashurst Lake in Coconino NF on 7/9/2016. The site demonstrated a scientific darkness reading of 21.65 SQM."
International Dark Sky Parks
Premier locations certified for their exceptional dark sky quality and commitment to light pollution mitigation.
Flagstaff Area National Monuments
The Flagstaff Area National Monuments were established early in the 20th century to protect a combination of natural landmarks and archaeological sites.
Petrified Forest National Park
Petrified Forest National Park is a 594.6 km2 (146,930-acre) IUCN Category II site located in northeastern Arizona, U.S. The Park preserves a landscape…
Local Astronomy Clubs
Connect with experts and fellow enthusiasts through local astronomical societies and community groups.