Hampton.
The definitive guide to dark skies and celestial observation in Hampton, VA. Verified using National Park Service and NASA Night Sky Network Clubs data.
Quick Guide for Hampton
- Top Community Pick: Chesapeake Planetarium (~24.2 miles)
- Best Scientific Reading: Bortle 6.0 at Green Run (km28)
- Local Experts: Back Bay Amateur Astronomers
- Verified Observations: 5 distinct spots
If you’re looking to escape the light pollution of Hampton, you’re in luck. While enthusiasts often gather at Chesapeake Planetarium for its accessibility, scientific audits conducted by the National Park Service at Green Run (km28) provide the most accurate reading of the regional sky quality, measuring at a Bortle 6.0. The local landscape of Hampton offers several pockets of darkness that are perfect for deep-sky observation.
The Best Times for Stargazing in Hampton
For the best results in Hampton, 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 Hampton Observers
Before heading out to Chesapeake Planetarium, we recommend arriving during civil twilight to scout the terrain safely. For the best views the site, try to observe targets when they are highest in the sky to minimize atmospheric interference. 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.
Virginia Guide
Local Top Spots
Community-vetted locations known for clear horizons and accessibility for telescopes and astrophotography.
Chesapeake Planetarium
" {'Register at https://anc.apm.activecommunities.com/cityofchesapeake/activity/search?onlineSiteId=0&activity_select_param=2&activity_keyword=winter%20 "
Equestrian Area Northwest River Park
" Event Etiquette: No running or playing around the telescopes. The dust and sand can be harmful to telescope optics. "
Elizabeth River Boat Landing and Park
" Event Etiquette: No running or playing around the telescopes. The dust and sand can be harmful to telescope optics. "
Kempsville Community Recreation Center
" Classes are two part - in class instructional, followed by a stroll outside to look up and see the night skies through telescopes provided. (Weather permitting) How to Buy a Telescope/Deep Sky Buying a telescope for a child The three main types of telescopes How they work What NOT to buy Accessories Deep Sky Objects- Star Clusters, Nebulae, Galaxies Weather permitting- various night sky targets will be viewed outside Class fee $5 per person - center membership or day pass is required, or a qualifying insurance membership such as Silver Sneakers. "
Boardwalk Astronomy Site
" {'Come join the Back Bay Amateur Astronomers as we support the Virginia Beach Surf and Rescue Museum (formerly the Old Coast Guard Station) at the 24t "
NPS Sky Measurements
Instrumented readings from the National Park Service Night Sky Program, providing the most accurate SQM and Bortle classifications.
Green Run (km28)
Assateague Island NS
"North end of ASIS looks directly north at Ocean City on nearby Fenwick Island. Carnival in progress is very bright"
Bodie Island
Cape Hatteras NS
"Re-visit of site from 2007. Bodie lighthouse is not operational at this time. Recent Hurricane Irene has limited access to most of Cape Hattera NS. Previous sites at "Boardwalk 27" and Frisco are not accessible due to Hwy 12 washouts. We planned on capturing data at Oregon Inlet Campground for "dark site", but upon return at night, found intense (DOT construction style) lights at roadblock just south of campground. These lights were too bright to collect data. The lights are present as alight dome from the maintenance/housing site, appearing almost due south. There is also a single bright white, unshielded light in the maintenance area to the north. Other light domes are visible to the west and north (Nags Head, Kill Devil Hills, Kitty Hawk, etc.). The Milky Way is prominent in anorth south alignment and Jupiter is bright in the eastern sky. A few passing clouds were visible prior to and during the 1st data set. Overall, a nice clear sky for the second consecutive night. There is a high extinction due to the excessive moisture in the air. This site is somewhat shielded from sea spray by a row of sand dunes (5-10 meters high). While power had been off earlier in the week, I believe that most lights (especially to the north) or now operational. The lights of Hatteras Island may not be on because of no access, but the light dome from the temporary road block prevents us from seing anything to the south."
International Dark Sky Parks
Premier locations certified for their exceptional dark sky quality and commitment to light pollution mitigation.
Staunton River State Park
Staunton River State Park is a 971-hectare property situated squarely in the heart of southern Virginia, about 40 km north of the North Carolina border.
James River State Park
James River State Park is a 631-hectare property located in the geographic center of Virginia, about 23 miles northeast of Lynchburg, VA, and 30 miles southwest…
Local Astronomy Clubs
Connect with experts and fellow enthusiasts through local astronomical societies and community groups.