The Map of Salt and Stars by Zeyn Joukhadar

The best way to see in the dark is to let yourself slowly acclimate by relaxing in perfect darkness.

Nebraska Star Party at Merritt Reservoir. Use a light pollution map to find the darkest place near you or check out one of the spots listed by region above!

The best places to stargaze are those with limited light pollution.

Clear Sky Charts are a great tool to check the forecast for astronomical observing conditions. Rain and cloud cover has a big impact on your ability to see the stars.

Check the forecast at your destination a day or two before you depart.

Although summer is the warmest for nighttime activities, it has the fewest number of dark hours and can often be unreliable weather wise.

While you can stargaze anytime of the year, autumn, winter and spring are preferred by many astronomers.

Check a lunar calendar to see when the new moons will occur throughout the year. If you can’t coordinate your trip to coincide with the new moon, aim for just before or just after.

Make your trip around the new moon! Night skies will appear darkest and stars brightest around the new moon each month.

Photo Credit: Nebraskaland Magazine/Nebraska Game and Parks Commission Tips for the best stargazing experience

Metro: Pelican Point State Recreation Area in Tekamah (1-hour drive north of Omaha)Ĭalamus Reservoir State Recreation Area.

Southeast: Indian Cave State Park in Shubert.

Northeast: Niobrara State Park in Niobrara.

South Central: Sherman Reservoir State Recreation Area in Loup City.

Sandhills: Calamus Reservoir State Recreation Area in Burwell or Merritt Reservoir State Recreation Area near Valentine (home of the annual Nebraska Star Party).

Southwest: Rock Creek Lake State Recreation Area near Enders.

Northwest: Box Butte Reservoir State Recreation Area near Hemingford.

You can find great spots to stargaze all throughout the state, but if you need help deciding where to go, check out this list of Nebraska State Parks and State Recreation Areas with dark skies perfect for stargazing in each region. Photo Credit: Nebraskaland Magazine/Nebraska Game and Parks Commission

The Map of Salt and Stars by Zeyn Joukhadar