Florence
Stargazing Guide.
Uncover the hidden celestial treasures of Florence, AZ. From the verified horizons at Picacho Peak State Park to the scientific Bortle Class 7 reports at Compound B, your journey to the stars starts here.
Stargazing Logistics for Florence
- STEP 1. Primary Staging Area: Picacho Peak State Park. This is your most reliable community-vetted hub within a ~28.5 mile radius.
- STEP 2. Sky Quality Baseline: Classified as Class D (Urban). Use the instrumented 7 rating from Compound B as your technical benchmark for the region.
- STEP 3. Local Support: Contact East Valley Astronomy Club (EVAC) for updated site access and group observation schedules.
- STEP 4. Observation Density: There are 5 recognized sites near Florence offering varied horizons and atmospheric stability levels.
Florence is positioned in a strategic 'Starlight Corridor.' It is far enough from the AZ metro glare to allow for deep-sky imaging, yet serves as a convenient staging area for the deeper Class 7 skies found at Compound B.
The Best Times for Stargazing in Florence
While Winter offers the most consistent clear nights for Florence, wait for the 4-day window surrounding the New Moon each month for the deepest contrast. Since the sun sets early in the late Winter months, you can often begin deep-sky imaging as early as 7 PM.
Expert Tips for Florence Observers
When observing from Picacho Peak State Park, try to position yourself facing away from the nearest major light dome. For Florence residents, this usually means looking toward the rural horizons of AZ to capture the lowest magnitude stars that are normally invisible from the city center. Scientific Context: While local conditions vary, the instrumented reading of Bortle 7 at Compound B (7.8 miles away) remains the benchmark for regional sky quality.
Best Spots for Stargazing in Florence
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 Florence environment.
Picacho Peak State Park
" A manageable drive from Florence, this spot is a reliable regional favorite. 'End of Park road the day use picnic area', 'Day use picnic area at end of road', 'Park fees are requested at entry', 'Park in lower lot of day use area', 'Day use area parking lot', 'Day use picnic area' "
Oracle State Park
" While it's a bit of a journey from Florence, the sky quality here is worth the fuel. Comfort Tip: The ground cools faster than the air. Bring a reclining chair to keep your neck strain-free during marathon observation sessions. "
Casa Grande Ruins National Monument
" Practically in Florence's backyard, we recommend this for spontaneous nights. Night Vision Tip: Red light is the only color that won't break your dark adaptation. Invest in a red headlamp for hands-free navigation. "
Saguaro National Park East
" For the dedicated Florence observer, this spot offers a superior escape from light pollution. Scientific Fact: Around 3 AM, the atmosphere is usually most stable, offering the 'steadiest seeing' for high-magnification planetary views. "
Agua Caliente Park
" For the dedicated Florence observer, this spot offers a superior escape from light pollution. Comfort Tip: The ground cools faster than the air. Bring a reclining chair to keep your neck strain-free during marathon observation sessions. "
2026 Celestial Roadmap for Florence
Urban viewing is best for high-contrast targets. Head to Picacho Peak State Park to escape local glare.
Sky Quality Reports for Florence
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.
Compound B
Casa Grande NM
Local Relevance
Florence enthusiasts typically use the instrumented readings from Compound B to calibrate their deep-sky expectations for the area.
"M31 a difficult direct/ easy averted vision object. M33 not visible. Milky way not visible (perhaps very fainly around Cassieopea, Perseus). Multiple light domes apparent, as well as many small glows from nearby development. Towers with red flashing lights and lots of air traffic present. A very clear night, but windy. Its possible some dust might be in the air."
North of Compound B
Casa Grande NM
Local Relevance
For observers in Florence, North of Compound B serves as the definitive baseline for high-altitude transparency and localized skyglow data.
"High thin clouds presnt, especially to the north. M31 a difficult direct vision, or an easy averted vision object. Multiple light domes are apparent as well as some closer lights from development around Coolidge."
Dark Sky Oasis near Florence
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 Florence observers.
Fountain Hills, Arizona
As one of the closest certified environments to Florence, Fountain Hills, Arizona offers a rare window into the true depth of the Milky Way.
16705 E. Avenue of the Fountains Fountain Hills, AZ 85268 USA
Tonto National Monument
The protected skies at Tonto National Monument represent a vital astronomical asset for the Florence observing community.
26260 N AZ Hwy 188 Roosevelt , AZ 85545 USA
Astronomy Clubs for Florence
Join the local community of observers for group viewing events, equipment swaps, and technical workshops. Don't show up to the club dark-site empty-handed. View the field kit we've curated for the The Solar System Guide profile.
Gearing Up for Florence Nights
"Planning a 45-minute drive from Florence means organization is key. Use padded equipment bags and a checklist to ensure you don't arrive at a remote dark site only to realize a crucial eyepiece was left back in Florence."
The Florence Field Kit
Designing a field kit for Florence requires understanding the specific transition from urban skyglow to the regional suburban benchmarks. Since Picacho Peak State Park offers a specific Class 7 horizon, your equipment needs to be calibrated for the unique transparency found in this part of the state. The following levels represent a logical path for growing your observatory without over-complicating your local field sessions.