Seaside.
The definitive guide to dark skies and celestial observation in Seaside, OR. Verified using National Park Service and NASA Night Sky Network Clubs data.
Quick Guide for Seaside
- Top Community Pick: Sasquatch Family Farms (~60.1 miles)
- Best Scientific Reading: Bortle 4 at Plummer Peak
- Local Experts: Rose City Astronomers
- Verified Observations: 2 distinct spots
Searching for a clear window into the cosmos near Seaside, OR? While enthusiasts often gather at Sasquatch Family Farms for its accessibility, scientific audits conducted by the National Park Service at Plummer Peak provide the most accurate reading of the regional sky quality, measuring at a Bortle 4. Atmospheric stability in the Seaside region is often influenced by local topography, which can help settle the air for high-magnification viewing.
The Best Times for Stargazing in Seaside
For the best results in Seaside, 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 Seaside Observers
Before heading out to Sasquatch Family Farms, we recommend arriving during civil twilight to scout the terrain safely. For the best views at this spot, 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.
Oregon Guide
Local Top Spots
Community-vetted locations known for clear horizons and accessibility for telescopes and astrophotography.
Sasquatch Family Farms
" Standard Advice: Dress in layers as temperatures drop quickly after sunset. Use a red-light flashlight to preserve your night vision. "
cruise ship
" Standard Advice: Dress in layers as temperatures drop quickly after sunset. Use a red-light flashlight to preserve your night vision. "
NPS Sky Measurements
Instrumented readings from the National Park Service Night Sky Program, providing the most accurate SQM and Bortle classifications.
Plummer Peak
Mount Rainier NP
"Sky quality measurements were recorded at Plummer Peak in Mount Rainier NP on 9/23/2005. The site demonstrated a scientific darkness reading of 21.09 SQM."
Plummer Peak
Mount Rainier NP
"Considerable detail visible in Milky Way, including dust lanes of Cygnus. M31 an easy averted, but difficult direct vision object. Faint shadows are cast by the light of Seattle/Tacoma. High humidity visible in valley below (settling into a very thin fog). Coastal cloud wall evident to west. ZLM of 6.4 seen in Auriga. SQM: 21.12 (1st), 21.08 (2nd), 21.17 (3rd)."
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Connect with experts and fellow enthusiasts through local astronomical societies and community groups.