Finding Dark Skies: Escaping Light Pollution

Light pollution is a growing problem for stargazers, but there are still places where you can see the night sky in all its glory. In this thread, users of the r/Stargazing subreddit recommend locations including Colorado, Big Bend, and rural Tanzania as great spots for stargazing with minimal light pollution.

Colorado, USA

The Mount Zirkel Wilderness and State Forest State Park are also great spots to visit for pristine skies and an unspoiled view of the cosmos.

Colorado is home to several Dark Sky Communities committed to reducing light pollution, including Crestone, Norwood, and Ridgway, which have embraced the initiative by implementing dark-sky-friendly lighting policies.

However, it's worth noting that Grand Junction is the primary source of light pollution in western Colorado, with its city lights encroaching upon the natural darkness of the surrounding areas.

Rural Tanzania

Tanzania is a large country in East Africa, with a population of around 60 million people. It is known for its diverse wildlife, its mountains, and its beaches. The country is home to Africa's highest mountain, Mount Kilimanjaro, as well as the famous Serengeti National Park, where you can see the Big Five game animals: lions, leopards, rhinos, elephants, and buffalo.

However, if you want to get away from the tourist trail and see the stars, then head to rural Tanzania. The country has a low population density, with just 60 people per square kilometre, so it is easy to find remote areas away from towns and cities.

One of the best places to see the stars is in the north of the country, in the Ngorongoro Conservation Area. This UNESCO World Heritage Site is home to the Ngorongoro Crater, a large volcanic caldera that is home to an abundance of wildlife, including lions, elephants, and rhinos. The area is also known for its dark skies, which make it a great place to see the Milky Way and other celestial wonders.

Another great spot for stargazing is the Serengeti National Park, which is located in the north-western part of the country. The park is famous for its annual wildebeest migration, but it is also a great place to see the stars. The vast, open plains offer unobstructed views of the night sky, and the lack of light pollution means you can see thousands of stars, as well as planets, galaxies, and meteors.

So, if you're looking for a place to get away from it all and see the stars in all their glory, then rural Tanzania is definitely worth considering. Just remember to bring a good pair of binoculars or a telescope, and enjoy the show!

Stephen C. Foster State Park, Georgia, USA

Stephen C. Foster State Park in Georgia, USA, is a great place to go to escape light pollution. The park is a 120-acre state park in the Okefenokee Swamp in Charlton County, Georgia. It was named after the American songwriter, Stephen Foster, who immortalised Georgia's Suwannee River in song. The park is a certified Dark Sky Park, recognised by the International Dark Sky Association in 2016, and is a great place for stargazing. With or without a telescope, visitors can see thousands of stars in the night sky.

The park offers a range of activities for visitors, including boat tours and rentals, canoe and kayak rentals, hiking and biking trails, and wildlife observation areas. There are 64 tents, a trailer, RV campsites, nine cottages, an interpretive centre, the 1.5-mile Trembling Earth Nature Trail, 25 miles of day-use waterways, three picnic shelters, and a pioneer campground. The park is also a primary entrance to the legendary Okefenokee Swamp, one of Georgia's seven natural wonders and the largest blackwater wetland in the South.

The Okefenokee Swamp is a unique ecosystem, with Spanish moss-laced trees reflecting off the swamp waters and cypress knees rising upward from the glass-like surface. It is home to a variety of wildlife, including primordial species, and offers breathtaking scenery for paddlers and photographers. The park's Suwannee River Visitor Center, located 18 miles northeast of Fargo, features exhibits about the animals, plants, and ecosystem of the Okefenokee Swamp and other environmental topics.

With its dark skies, abundant wildlife, and beautiful natural surroundings, Stephen C. Foster State Park is a great place to disconnect from the modern world and enjoy quality family time. The park staff are very knowledgeable and can provide information about the park's many attractions. Whether you're looking to relax or explore, Stephen C. Foster State Park has something for everyone.

Oregon Outback, Oregon, USA

If you're looking for a place with no light pollution, Oregon Outback in Oregon, USA, is a great option. Located in the high desert of southeastern Oregon, this remote and rugged region offers some of the darkest skies in the country. With minimal light pollution, it's an ideal spot for stargazing and astronomy enthusiasts.

The Oregon Outback spans thousands of square miles and is characterised by its vast expanses of sagebrush steppe, volcanic landscapes, and pristine lakes. The area is sparsely populated, with small towns and ranches scattered throughout the region. This isolation makes it a perfect destination for those seeking a quiet escape from city life and a chance to reconnect with nature under the stars.

One of the best ways to experience the Oregon Outback is by camping. There are numerous campgrounds and dispersed camping areas throughout the region, allowing you to immerse yourself in the natural surroundings. Spend your days exploring the diverse landscapes, from the majestic Crater Lake National Park to the otherworldly Alvord Desert. As night falls, gather around a campfire and gaze up at the starry sky, free from the light pollution that obscures the night sky in more populated areas.

Compared to other popular stargazing destinations like Colorado or Big Bend, the Oregon Outback offers a unique blend of wide-open spaces and diverse natural wonders. While Rural Tanzania and Salt Lake City may also boast dark skies, the Oregon Outback provides a more accessible option for those in the continental US, without sacrificing the incredible starry views.

Whether you're an avid astronomer or simply seeking a peaceful getaway, the Oregon Outback delivers an unforgettable experience. With its lack of light pollution, you'll be treated to breathtaking night skies that will leave you with a newfound appreciation for the beauty of the universe. So, if you're ready to escape the city lights and embark on a celestial adventure, pack your bags and head to the Oregon Outback for a truly stellar experience.

Big Bend, USA

Big Bend National Park in Texas, USA, is a great place to go if you want to avoid light pollution. Located in the southwestern part of the state, it borders Mexico and is named for a large bend in the Rio Grande, which runs along its southern edge. The park was established in 1935 and covers 1,252 square miles, making it the largest protected area of Chihuahuan Desert topography and ecology in the United States.

Big Bend is a hiker's paradise, with more than 150 miles of trails through mountainous desert terrain and along rivers. The park is also home to a rich variety of flora and fauna, including more than 1,200 species of plants, 450 species of birds, 56 species of reptiles, and 75 species of mammals. Visitors can explore the park's gorgeous vistas via paved highways and dirt roads, and there are also four developed campgrounds and primitive backcountry camping options.

The area has a rich cultural history, with archaeological sites dating back nearly 10,000 years. Visitors can learn about the park's history and natural features through programs led by Big Bend park rangers. Other activities include scenic drives, fishing, and, of course, stargazing. With its magnificent mountain and desert scenery, deep canyons, and spectacular geologic formations, Big Bend offers a truly unique and remote experience.

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