Casper.
The definitive guide to dark skies and celestial observation in Casper, WY. Verified using National Park Service and NASA Night Sky Network Clubs data.
Quick Guide for Casper
- Top Community Pick: local vantage points (~N/A miles)
- Best Scientific Reading: Bortle 4.0 at Hospital Hill
- Local Experts: Cheyenne Astronomical Society
- Verified Observations: 0 distinct spots
Searching for a clear window into the cosmos near Casper, WY? While enthusiasts often gather at local vantage points for its accessibility, scientific audits conducted by the National Park Service at Hospital Hill provide the most accurate reading of the regional sky quality, measuring at a Bortle 4.0. Atmospheric stability in the Casper region is often influenced by local topography, which can help settle the air for high-magnification viewing.
The Best Times for Stargazing in Casper
For the best results in Casper, 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 Casper Observers
Before heading out to local vantage points, we recommend arriving during civil twilight to scout the terrain safely. A medium-aperture telescope is ideal for resolving the rings of Saturn and bright star clusters this location. 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.
Local Top Spots
Community-vetted locations known for clear horizons and accessibility for telescopes and astrophotography.
NPS Sky Measurements
Instrumented readings from the National Park Service Night Sky Program, providing the most accurate SQM and Bortle classifications.
Hospital Hill
Fort Laramie NHS
"Some equipment issues during the night with both camera sets that were being used (ML4 and IMG2). There are lots of local glare sources from nearby ranches and NPS maintenance facilities. Huge railyard facility for transporting coal located to the west near Guernsey creates its own light dome from the excessive yard lights (very tall light pole installations). The town of Fort Laramie has a few bad sections of lighting that are readily visible from the park. Even with all of this surrounding light pollution, the night skies here are very good. Rich detail visible in the Milky Way (which extends almost horizon to horizon). A new "load-out" rail facility is being built almost adjacent to the park boundary on the NE."
Water Storage
Agate Fossil Beds NM
"Very dark sky. The Milky Way can be seen all the way up to about 10 degrees above the horizon. Most of the light domes along the horizon are small and faint. Zenith appears to be in its natural condition."
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.