Muleshoe.

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

Bortle Scale
3
Best Regional Reading
Sky Quality
21.34
SQM Zenith Value
Verified Sites
0
Community Vetted
Dark Sky Parks
2
IDA Certified Nearby

Quick Guide for Muleshoe

  • Top Community Pick: local vantage points (~N/A miles)
  • Best Scientific Reading: Bortle 3 at Limestone Campground
  • Local Experts: Roswell Astronomy Club
  • Verified Observations: 0 distinct spots

Stargazing in Muleshoe 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 Limestone Campground provide the most accurate reading of the regional sky quality, measuring at a Bortle 3. The transition between the urban infrastructure of Muleshoe and the more rural stretches of TX creates several ‘dark sky’ corridors.

The Best Times for Stargazing in Muleshoe

For the best results in Muleshoe, 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 Muleshoe 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 at this spot 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.

Scientific Audit

NPS Sky Measurements

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

Limestone Campground

Brantley Lake SP

21.34 SQM
Bortle Class 3

"Sky quality measurements were recorded at Limestone Campground in Brantley Lake SP on 12/10/2006. The site demonstrated a scientific darkness reading of 21.34 SQM."

Observation Date
12/10/2006
Elevation
1011m
Zenith Brightness
21.63

Star Point Overlook

Clayton Lake SP

21.2 SQM
Bortle Class 4

"Sky quality measurements were recorded at Star Point Overlook in Clayton Lake SP on 11/17/2006. The site demonstrated a scientific darkness reading of 21.2 SQM."

Observation Date
11/17/2006
Elevation
1587m
Zenith Brightness
21.48

International Dark Sky Parks

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

IDA Certified Distance: 96.7 miles

Caprock Canyons State Park, Texas

Known for its limestone hills, oak woodlands, and wide-open skies, Liberty Hill has long cherished its rural roots and starlit nights.

Category
International Dark Sky Park
Certified
2025
Land Area
61.97 km sq.
Coordinates
34.4444, -101.0531
IDA Certified Distance: 165.8 miles

Clayton Lake State Park

Clayton Lake State Park, located in Union County, New Mexico, is a place of rolling grasslands, volcanic rocks, and sandstone bluffs on the edge of the American…

Category
Dark Sky Park
Certified
2010
Land Area
0.796 km2
Coordinates
36.5813, -103.3088

Local Astronomy Clubs

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

NASA Night Sky Club ID
#528

Roswell Astronomy Club

Roswell, NM

NASA Night Sky Club ID
#645

Santa Fe Stargazers

Santa Fe, NM