Globe
Stargazing Guide.
Just 53.7 miles from the center of Globe, lies some of the region's best viewing at Oracle State Park. We feature instrumented readings from Compound B to guarantee the most accurate sky quality data.
Stargazing Logistics for Globe
- STEP 1. Primary Staging Area: Oracle State Park. This is your most reliable community-vetted hub within a ~53.7 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 Globe offering varied horizons and atmospheric stability levels.
As a regional observation basecamp, Globe offers the essential amenities needed before heading into the isolated darkness of Compound B. It marks the transition where the suburban light dome finally gives way to the true wilderness sky.
The Best Times for Stargazing in Globe
Observation in Globe is most rewarding during the Summer months. During this time, the colder air masses over the Southwest region often result in significantly higher transparency, allowing you to see objects like the Andromeda Galaxy or Orion Nebula with much more definition.
Expert Tips for Globe Observers
Thermal equilibrium is key. Since Globe temperatures can shift rapidly after sunset, allow your telescope mirrors at least 45 minutes to 'cool down' before attempting high-magnification work at Oracle State Park. This prevents 'tube currents' from blurring your view of Jupiter or Saturn. Scientific Context: While local conditions vary, the instrumented reading of Bortle 7 at Compound B (52.7 miles away) remains the benchmark for regional sky quality.
Best Spots for Stargazing in Globe
The most accessible and reliable viewing locations in the region, ranked by local observer feedback. To get the most out of these verified spots, ensure your mobile reconnaissance kit is ready for Globe's local horizons.
Oracle State Park
" Pack some snacks for the drive from Globe; this destination is a justified detour. Imaging Tip: If you're photographing the Milky Way, bring a clear filter or dew shield to prevent lens fogging in humid conditions. "
Picacho Peak State Park
" While it's a bit of a journey from Globe, the sky quality here is worth the fuel. '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' "
Tonto National Monument
" Globe observers often find this mid-distance site perfect for a full session. Veteran Pro-Tip: Avoid using your phone's white screen. Even with low brightness, it resets your eye's Rhodopsin levels instantly. "
The Views Golf Cart Parking Lot - behind Restaurant
" Pack some snacks for the drive from Globe; this destination is a justified detour. Meteor Watching Tip: Don't look at one spot; keep your eyes moving across the sky. Your peripheral vision is more sensitive to motion. "
Casa Grande Ruins National Monument
" For the dedicated Globe observer, this spot offers a superior escape from light pollution. Deep Sky Advice: Allow at least 20 minutes in total darkness for your pupils to fully dilate. You'll notice faint nebulae that were invisible at first. "
2026 Celestial Roadmap for Globe
Urban viewing is best for high-contrast targets. Head to Oracle State Park to escape local glare.
Sky Quality Reports for Globe
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
For observers in Globe, Compound B serves as the definitive baseline for high-altitude transparency and localized skyglow data.
"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."
North of Compound B
Casa Grande NM
Local Relevance
The scientific findings at North of Compound B provide Globe residents with the most reliable data on regional atmospheric stability.
"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 Globe
Elite viewing locations officially recognized by DarkSky International for their pristine celestial environments. Experience the full, pristine depth of these IDA certified skies with the precision stargazing gear we recommend for Globe residents.
Tonto National Monument
As one of the closest certified environments to Globe, Tonto National Monument offers a rare window into the true depth of the Milky Way.
26260 N AZ Hwy 188 Roosevelt , AZ 85545 USA
Oracle State Park
As one of the closest certified environments to Globe, Oracle State Park offers a rare window into the true depth of the Milky Way.
Oracle, Arizona, U.S.
Astronomy Clubs for Globe
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 Globe Nights
"With the long trek from Globe, "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 Globe Field Kit
Designing a field kit for Globe requires understanding the specific transition from urban skyglow to the regional suburban benchmarks. With Oracle State Park sitting at a ~54-mile benchmark, your gear selection should mirror your willingness to travel. The following levels represent a logical path for growing your observatory without over-complicating your local field sessions.