Finley
Stargazing Guide.
Just 67.3 miles from the center of Finley, lies some of the region's best viewing at Moses Lake: General. We feature instrumented readings from Blue Basin Overlook to guarantee the most accurate sky quality data.
Stargazing Logistics for Finley
- STEP 1. Primary Staging Area: Moses Lake: General. This is your most reliable community-vetted hub within a ~67.3 mile radius.
- STEP 2. Sky Quality Baseline: Classified as Class A (Pristine). Use the instrumented 2 rating from Blue Basin Overlook as your technical benchmark for the region.
- STEP 3. Local Support: Contact Tri-City Astronomy Club of Southeastern Washington for updated site access and group observation schedules.
- STEP 4. Observation Density: There are 1 recognized sites near Finley offering varied horizons and atmospheric stability levels.
As a regional observation basecamp, Finley offers the essential amenities needed before heading into the isolated darkness of Blue Basin Overlook. It marks the transition where the suburban light dome finally gives way to the true wilderness sky.
The Best Times for Stargazing in Finley
In WA, the transitional periods of early Summer often provide a stable atmosphere between weather fronts. For Finley residents, this means less 'star twinkling' (scintillation) and a significantly steadier view for high-magnification planetary observation.
Expert Tips for Finley Observers
If you're visiting Moses Lake: General, bring a pack of chemical hand-warmers and rubber-band them to your eyepiece or camera lens. This acts as a 'budget' dew heater, which is essential for the humid nights often found in WA during the peak viewing seasons. Scientific Context: While local conditions vary, the instrumented reading of Bortle 2 at Blue Basin Overlook (112.6 miles away) remains the benchmark for regional sky quality.
Best Spots for Stargazing in Finley
The most accessible and reliable viewing locations in the region, ranked by local observer feedback. Max out your local session by using the essential observer gear staged for the Finley environment.
Moses Lake: General
" Pack some snacks for the drive from Finley; this destination is a justified detour. Thermal Mastery: Set your telescope out an hour early to allow the mirrors to reach 'thermal equilibrium' with the night air. "
2026 Celestial Roadmap for Finley
With a Bortle 2, Finley offers world-class visibility. Wait for astronomical twilight for peak contrast.
Sky Quality Reports for Finley
Access high-precision SQM readings from the National Park Service, providing the definitive baseline for regional darkness quality. Discover which telescopes can best cut through the remaining regional skyglow to see these scientific targets by viewing our gear recommendations.
Blue Basin Overlook
John Day Fossil Beds NM
Local Relevance
The scientific findings at Blue Basin Overlook provide Finley residents with the most reliable data on regional atmospheric stability.
"Very clear night! Cloud free, but fire smoke visible to the south and east from N. Calofornia fires. Possibly some smoke to the north low along the horizon. No visible light domes in any direction and only one or two single glare sources in the valleys below from ranches. Exceptionally bright Milky Way with rich detail from Sagitarrius Star Cloud to Cygnus. Easily visble from horizon to horizon. M31 easily visble with naked eye. SQM readings probably a little low due to Milky Way being almost overhead. Milky Way casting shadows with no problem. One of the best nights skies this observer has seen."
Burch Mountain
Chelan County
Local Relevance
Finley enthusiasts typically use the instrumented readings from Burch Mountain to calibrate their deep-sky expectations for the area.
"Partly cloudy at the beginning of the night and gradually became clear later. Humid but no wind."
Dark Sky Oasis near Finley
Elite viewing locations officially recognized by DarkSky International for their pristine celestial environments. Certified dark skies like these are most rewarding when paired with the right aperture. Check out our suggested kit for Finley observers.
Cottonwood Canyon State Park
As one of the closest certified environments to Finley, Cottonwood Canyon State Park offers a rare window into the true depth of the Milky Way.
99989 Highway 206
Antelope, Oregon
As one of the closest certified environments to Finley, Antelope, Oregon offers a rare window into the true depth of the Milky Way.
94237 McGreer St. Antelope, OR 97001
Astronomy Clubs for Finley
Join the local community of observers for group viewing events, equipment swaps, and technical workshops. Planning to join a local session? Make sure you have the essentials ready by checking our starter kit recommendations.
Gearing Up for Finley Nights
"With the long trek from Finley, "ruggedness" becomes a gear priority. Ensure your tripod and mount are rated for uneven terrain, as the best dark sites near here often feature unpaved staging areas."
The Finley Field Kit
When observing near Finley, the local atmospheric stability and the commute time to isolated zones are your primary logistical factors. Since Moses Lake: General offers a specific Class 2 horizon, your equipment needs to be calibrated for the unique transparency found in this part of the state. We've curated a specific progression of gear—from entry-level comfort to dedicated imaging hubs—to help you maximize every clear night.