Verdigris.
The definitive guide to dark skies and celestial observation in Verdigris, OK. Verified using National Park Service and NASA Night Sky Network Clubs data.
Quick Guide for Verdigris
- Top Community Pick: Mounds Observatory (~34.4 miles)
- Best Scientific Reading: Bortle 4.0 at Veterans Lake
- Local Experts: Broken Arrow Sidewalk Astronomers
- Verified Observations: 5 distinct spots
If you’re looking to escape the light pollution of Verdigris, you’re in luck. While enthusiasts often gather at Mounds Observatory for its accessibility, scientific audits conducted by the National Park Service at Veterans Lake provide the most accurate reading of the regional sky quality, measuring at a Bortle 4.0. The transition between the urban infrastructure of Verdigris and the more rural stretches of OK creates several ‘dark sky’ corridors.
The Best Times for Stargazing in Verdigris
Since Verdigris sits in a transitional light zone, viewing is best during the New Moon or after midnight when some commercial lighting is reduced.
Expert Tips for Verdigris Observers
Because Mounds Observatory is a developed site, it often features established viewing pads and specialized equipment. 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.
Oklahoma Guide
Local Top Spots
Community-vetted locations known for clear horizons and accessibility for telescopes and astrophotography.
Mounds Observatory
" Standard Advice: Dress in layers as temperatures drop quickly after sunset. Use a red-light flashlight to preserve your night vision. "
Sooner Park
" Standard Advice: Dress in layers as temperatures drop quickly after sunset. Use a red-light flashlight to preserve your night vision. "
Reed Park, Tulsa, Oklahoma
" Standard Advice: Dress in layers as temperatures drop quickly after sunset. Use a red-light flashlight to preserve your night vision. "
Jo Allyn Lowe Park
" 'Star party cancelled due to weather conditions for telescopes--dew point not good!' "
Ray Harral Nature Center in Broken Arrow, OK
" 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.
Veterans Lake
Chickasaw NRA
"Clear sky. The area right above the horizon appears bright from all the directions. Milky Way is impressive overhead but lasks the details of the bright/dark structure. Light dome extends up to about 60 degrees above the horizon."
Buckhorn Parking Lot
Chickasaw NRA
"Sky looks hazy during the day. At night, sky right above the horizon looks bright in all direction. Light pollution extends to about 60 degrees above the horizon. Milky Way was still impressive right overhead but becomes invisible at about 20 degrees from the horizon."
International Dark Sky Parks
Premier locations certified for their exceptional dark sky quality and commitment to light pollution mitigation.
Buffalo National River
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Local Astronomy Clubs
Connect with experts and fellow enthusiasts through local astronomical societies and community groups.