Gallup.
The definitive guide to dark skies and celestial observation in Gallup, NM. Verified using National Park Service and NASA Night Sky Network Clubs data.
Quick Guide for Gallup
- Top Community Pick: local vantage points (~N/A miles)
- Best Scientific Reading: Bortle 3.0 at Atsinna Pueblo
- Local Experts: Little Colorado River Valley Astronomy Club
- Verified Observations: 0 distinct spots
Stargazing in Gallup is surprisingly rewarding if you know exactly where to set up your tripod. While enthusiasts often gather at local vantage points for its accessibility, scientific audits conducted by the National Park Service at Atsinna Pueblo provide the most accurate reading of the regional sky quality, measuring at a Bortle 3.0. The local landscape of Gallup offers several pockets of darkness that are perfect for deep-sky observation.
The Best Times for Stargazing in Gallup
For the best results in Gallup, 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 Gallup 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.
New Mexico Guide
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.
Atsinna Pueblo
El Morro NM
"Good 360 degree view of horizon. Two bright lights to the east coming from RV park. To the south a line of 20+ blue green lights coming from Ramah Navajo/Zuni lands. The lights are approximately 10 miles away towards Pine City, not harsh glare, but visible from the park. Gallup light domeis very visible to the NW. Due west is Winslow/Hollbrook, smaller domes, but still visible. Phoenix is just visible to the southwest. Sagittarius is bright w/ definition of prancing horse. Dark lanes extend barely into Casssiopia through Sagittarius and just into the tail of Scorpius. At its widest, Milky Way is about 12-13 degrees wide."
Astinna Pueblo
El Morro NM
"Strong winds all day long (20-40 mph) have caused lots of particulates in the atmosphere. Moderate haze up to 10° in the east and south and 5° in the west. Last of clouds dissipated by 9:30 pm. The light domes of Gallup and Grants easily visible, but do not hinder night vision. Numerous single source light sources on scattered homes to the south and SW. Zodiacal light is strong and easily visible to 45°. The Milky Way is visible from 5° above SE horizon to 15° (just above Cassiopia) in the north. Lots of highway traffic late in the evening returning from Grants (?). Overall, the surrounding artificial lights do not degrade the quality of observations at this site."
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Local Astronomy Clubs
Connect with experts and fellow enthusiasts through local astronomical societies and community groups.