Havre.

The definitive guide to dark skies and celestial observation in Havre, MT. Verified using National Park Service and NASA Night Sky Network Clubs data.

Bortle Scale
2
Best Regional Reading
Sky Quality
21.7
SQM Zenith Value
Verified Sites
0
Community Vetted
Dark Sky Parks
2
IDA Certified Nearby

Quick Guide for Havre

  • Top Community Pick: local vantage points (~N/A miles)
  • Best Scientific Reading: Bortle 3.0 at St Mary’s VC
  • Local Experts: Helena Astronomical Society
  • Verified Observations: 0 distinct spots

If you’re looking to escape the light pollution of Havre, you’re in luck. While enthusiasts often gather at local vantage points for its accessibility, scientific audits conducted by the National Park Service at St Mary’s VC provide the most accurate reading of the regional sky quality, measuring at a Bortle 3.0. Atmospheric stability in the Havre region is often influenced by local topography, which can help settle the air for high-magnification viewing.

The Best Times for Stargazing in Havre

For the best results in Havre, 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 Havre Observers

Before heading out to local vantage points, we recommend arriving during civil twilight to scout the terrain safely. Binoculars are a favorite for regulars this location for sweeping views of the Moon’s craters and larger constellations. 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.

Montana Guide

Population 9,333
Coordinates 48.54, -109.68

Nearby Cities

Local Top Spots

Community-vetted locations known for clear horizons and accessibility for telescopes and astrophotography.

Scientific Audit

NPS Sky Measurements

Instrumented readings from the National Park Service Night Sky Program, providing the most accurate SQM and Bortle classifications.

St Mary's VC

Glacier NP

21.56 SQM
Bortle Class 3

"Some direct glare creating difficulties in dark adapting looking north. M13, 31, and 33 all visible naked eye. SQM measure of 21.77"

Observation Date
8/19/2009
Elevation
1388m
Zenith Brightness
21.62

Logan Pass

Glacier NP

21.7 SQM
Bortle Class 2

"High cirrus and poor tranparency, then clearing. M13, M31, and M33 all naked eye. Possible smoke induced inversion"

Observation Date
8/20/2009
Elevation
2044m
Zenith Brightness
21.52

International Dark Sky Parks

Premier locations certified for their exceptional dark sky quality and commitment to light pollution mitigation.

IDA Certified Distance: 188.7 miles

Waterton-Glacier International Peace Park

Waterton Lakes National Park in Alberta, Canada, and Glacier National Park in Montana, U.S., are collectively the first IDA International Dark Sky Parks…

Category
Dark Sky Park
Certified
2017
Land Area
4,606 km2
Coordinates
48.6875, -113.8051
IDA Certified Distance: 241.4 miles

Lost Trail National Wildlife Refuge

The Lost Trail National Wildlife Refuge is located in Pleasant Valley, nestled in the Salish Mountains of northwestern Montana, United States.

Category
International Dark Sky Sanctuary
Certified
2022
Land Area
37.3 km2
Coordinates
48.1892, -114.9123

Local Astronomy Clubs

Connect with experts and fellow enthusiasts through local astronomical societies and community groups.

NASA Night Sky Club ID
#309

Helena Astronomical Society

Helena, MT

NASA Night Sky Club ID
#660

Yellowstone Valley Astronomy Association

Billings, MT