Minot.
The definitive guide to dark skies and celestial observation in Minot, ND. Verified using National Park Service and NASA Night Sky Network Clubs data.
Quick Guide for Minot
- Top Community Pick: local vantage points (~N/A miles)
- Best Scientific Reading: Bortle 4.0 at Oxbow Overlook
- Local Experts: Northern Sky Astronomical Society
- Verified Observations: 0 distinct spots
Stargazing in Minot 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 Oxbow Overlook provide the most accurate reading of the regional sky quality, measuring at a Bortle 4.0. The transition between the urban infrastructure of Minot and the more rural stretches of ND creates several ‘dark sky’ corridors.
The Best Times for Stargazing in Minot
For the best results in Minot, 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 Minot 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.
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.
Oxbow Overlook
Theodore Roosevelt NP
"Significant light glow to the north from energy development. Milky Way visible from 5 degrees above horizon in SW to 30 degrees above in NE. Moderate extinction to the north and low extinction all other areas. Numerous oil rig lights in the lands adjoining the Park. Jupiter very bright low on the horizon to the east. Humidity sems to be increasing fairly quickly. The Little Missouri River is directly below the overlook in the valley. No clouds visible by 2nd data set. There is not any substantial light domes visible, but all of the individual lights (oil exploration, "fracking" sites) are combining to produce moderate light glow."
Oxbow Overlook
Theodore Roosevelt NP
"Clear skies except for a few isolated clouds to the NW. The entire horizon from approximately 300° to 150° was a light dome with impacts almost to the zenith. A layer of haze/smoke from all of the gas flares and road dust (trucking traffic) extended to 10°-15° in the NW to NE sky. Only the brightest stars in many of the main constellations were visible to the naked eye. Significantly more lights along the horizon than two years earlier."
International Dark Sky Parks
Premier locations certified for their exceptional dark sky quality and commitment to light pollution mitigation.
Medicine Rocks State Park
Medicine Rocks State Park is full of history, culture, unique topography, and wonderfully dark skies. The park is also a haven for wildlife. They host dark sky…
Voyageurs National Park
Voyageurs National Park’s name commemorates the voyageurs—French-Canadian fur traders who were the first European settlers to frequently travel through the area.
Local Astronomy Clubs
Connect with experts and fellow enthusiasts through local astronomical societies and community groups.