Silverton.
The definitive guide to dark skies and celestial observation in Silverton, OR. Verified using National Park Service and NASA Night Sky Network Clubs data.
Quick Guide for Silverton
- Top Community Pick: cruise ship (~43.7 miles)
- Best Scientific Reading: Bortle 2.0 at Carrol Rim Overlook
- Local Experts: Nightsky-45
- Verified Observations: 1 distinct spots
Stargazing in Silverton is surprisingly rewarding if you know exactly where to set up your tripod. While enthusiasts often gather at cruise ship for its accessibility, scientific audits conducted by the National Park Service at Carrol Rim Overlook provide the most accurate reading of the regional sky quality, measuring at a Bortle 2.0. Atmospheric stability in the Silverton region is often influenced by local topography, which can help settle the air for high-magnification viewing.
The Best Times for Stargazing in Silverton
For the best results in Silverton, 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 Silverton Observers
Before heading out to cruise ship, we recommend arriving during civil twilight to scout the terrain safely. A medium-aperture telescope is ideal for resolving the rings of Saturn and bright star clusters this location. 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.
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.
Carrol Rim Overlook
John Day Fossil Beds NM
"Some smoke on horizon, but no noticable light domes or any light pollution. Slight brightening to NW. Began the evening with some clouds to the south and east which receeded. Smoke layer along horizon to south/SW and some to the north. Clear overhead. Slightly hazier than last night. Airglow may be prison to the northwest and southeast. Milky Way is easily seen with wonderful detail spans from southwest horizon below Sagitarrius overhead to northeast well beyond Cassiopia through Persius to horizon. Great rift is well defined, prancing horse is visible. Star clouds are bright! Milky Way is 23 degrees wide at Sagitarrius."
Burroughs Mountain
Mount Rainier NP
"Sky quality measurements were recorded at Burroughs Mountain in Mount Rainier NP on 8/13/2007. The site demonstrated a scientific darkness reading of 21.28 SQM."
International Dark Sky Parks
Premier locations certified for their exceptional dark sky quality and commitment to light pollution mitigation.
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Local Astronomy Clubs
Connect with experts and fellow enthusiasts through local astronomical societies and community groups.