DARK SKIES
A Guide to Stargazing in Central Oregon
DARK SKIES
Central Oregon is a vast region, with a variety of experiences in any season and for any given interest. From Sunriver to Sisters and from Prineville to Madras, and everywhere in between, there are endless opportunities to explore. But the sky that hovers above us – which also happens to be endless –is one of the constants.
The region is home to two DarkSky International certified areas that are part of the global Dark Sky Places Program, including Sunriver and Prineville Reservoir State Park. It’s also the perfect gateway to the
hugely impressive Oregon Outback International Dark Sky Sanctuary – a phased designation comprising millions of acres - and the largest Dark Sky Sanctuary in the world.
At a time when 80% of the country’s population can no longer view the Milky Way from their home because of light pollution, Oregon’s dark skies are appreciated as an increasingly rare natural resource.
We’ve put together this useful guide to help lead you in the right direction –much like the North Star.
WHY DARK SKIES MATTER
Light pollution continues to have an increasingly unfavorable impact. Our dark skies are crucial to protect not only for the vital and proper functioning of our natural ecosystems, but also for the health and well-being of humans and the preservation of our outdoor space. Dark skies allow us to maintain a connection with the universe offering inspiration, scientific discoveries, and a sense of wonder that has long been part of human history.
Since the electrification of homes, parks, buildings, and more, technology and a 24/7 global economy have been at conflict with the frontier of darkness. Light pollution disrupts the natural rhythms of wildlife, interfering with nocturnal behaviors such as migration, reproduction, and feeding. It affects plant growth and pollination cycles, ultimately impacting entire ecosystems. For humans, excessive artificial light can lead to health issues such as sleep disorders and increased stress.
Practicing the Principles of Leave No Trace (see pg. 22) will help minimize unwanted impacts. Visit Central Oregon is an Official Partner with Leave No Trace.
DID YOU KNOW
Light pollution is increasing at twice the rate of population growth worldwide, and 83 percent of the global population now lives under a light-polluted sky. Typically, more and brighter LED lights are installed than necessary, and many of those are blue-white in color. Using yellow light is much more night sky friendly.
Photo by Grant Tandy
OBSERVATORIES ROUNDUP
Central Oregon is home to multiple publicly accessible observatories – including the fully-equipped Pine Mountain Observatory and the Oregon Observatory – as well as the less developed but equally impressive Dee Wright Observatory. Worthy’s Hopservatory and Asterisk Observatory are not to be missed, either. The region’s famous dark skies are easily explored at any one of the following venues.
PINE MOUNTAIN OBSERVATORY
Pine Mountain Observatory is perched at an elevation of 6,300 feet (1,920 meters), 34 miles (54 kilometers) southeast of Bend. Though primarily used for advanced scientific research and other astronomical observations, the observatory is open to visitors on select weekends during the spring and summer months. Pine Mountain Observatory uses a combination of observatory staff and volunteer amateur astronomers to conduct tours. An adjacent Forest Service campground accommodates a few overnight visitors on a first come, first serve basis, and a number of other selfguided activities are also available. pmo.uoregon.edu
The last 8 miles (13 kilometers) of the road to Pine Mountain Observatory are unpaved. Visitors should depart with a full tank of gas, plenty of clothing for all conditions, and sturdy shoes. There are no services available at the observatory, and travelers should expect the drive to take approximately one hour each way.
DEE WRIGHT OBSERVATORY
Dee Wright Observatory is built entirely of lava rock and set in the middle of a sweeping lava field at an elevation of 5,187 feet (1,580 meters).
At 65 square miles (168 square kilometers) in size, the surrounding lava field is so expansive and lunar-esque that in 1964, NASA conducted training with astronauts here as they prepared to travel to the moon.
fs.usda.gov/visit/destination/dee-wright-observatory
VISITOR NOTE
The Dee Wright Observatory is located 15 miles (24 kilometers) west of the town of Sisters up a narrow, paved road. There are no services available at the observatory, and the access road is closed to vehicles in winter approximately 7 miles (11 kilometers) west of Sisters.
by
Photo
Richard Bacon
OREGON OBSERVATORY
As the largest publicly accessible observatory in the nation with more than 30 different telescopes for nighttime stargazing and daytime solar viewing, the Oregon Observatory in Sunriver boasts a high elevation of 4,163 feet (1,268 meters), dark surroundings, and good air quality that combine to make it a special thrill for all ages.
VISITOR NOTE
Tickets must be purchased online, in advance, through the www.snco.org website.
Located less than 2 miles (3 kilometers) from the Lodge at Sunriver Resort, and located within one of Central Oregon’s two DarkSky International-certified Dark Sky Places, the Oregon Observatory also features planetarium shows, star parties, solar viewing, youth summer space camps, and more.
snco.org
ASTERISK OBSERVATORY
AT THE SPOT AT SMITH ROCK
The Asterisk Observatory is situated on a property near Smith Rock, offering a unique experience for private programs. Featuring a telescope housed in a roll-off roof with 360 degree views, guests are able to marvel and discover the wonders of the night sky in a one-of-a-kind setting. For more information on booking, visit their website asteriskobservatory.org.
WORTHY HOPSERVATORY
The Hopservatory, operated by Worthy Environmental, can be found at Worthy Brewing Company on the east side of Bend. There, visitors can peer into a 16-inch (40 cm), research-grade telescope that shows off stars, planets, solar events, and more. Viewing is open to the public with a first come first serve format. During the spring and summer seasons, private tours can be arranged for a unique and personalized experience. Days and hours vary throughout the year, so check their website for the most updated information to plan your visit. worthyenvironmental.org/hopservatory
Photo by Alex Jordan
CENTRAL OREGON DARK SKIES
AT A GLANCE
Central Oregon is one of the West’s leading areas working to protect and preserve dark skies, while educating visitors about their critical importance. In addition to Sunriver and Prineville Reservoir State Park, other areas including the City of Sisters and the City of Antelope are pursuing DarkSky International’s Dark Sky Places certification.
Top right photo by Austin White
PRINEVILLE
CERTIFIED: May 7, 2021
OREGON OUTBACK INTERNATIONAL DARK SKY SANCTUARY
CERTIFIED: March 11, 2024
DESIGNATION: International Dark Sky Sanctuary
The nearby 2.5 million-acre (over 1 million hectares) Oregon Outback Dark Sky Sanctuary was certified on March 11, 2024. Central Oregon is an ideal base camp or entry point for exploring what is currently the world’s largest International Dark Sky Sanctuary with goals to expand it to 11.4 million acres (4.6 million hectares) of protected dark skies. darksky.org/places/oregon-outback-internationaldark-sky-sanctuary-oregon
RESERVOIR STATE PARK
DESIGNATION: International Dark Sky Park
In May of 2021, Prineville Reservoir State Park received its certification as an International Dark Sky Park, part of the International Dark Sky Places Program.
The certification recognizes the exceptional quality of the park and campground’s night skies as well as the park’s efforts to install responsible lighting and educate the public about light pollution. stateparks.oregon.gov
Top photo by Tim Lyden, bottom by Grant Tandy
SUNRIVER
CERTIFIED: August 3, 2020
DESIGNATION: Dark Sky Friendly Development of Distinction
Home to the Sunriver Nature Center & Observatory, Sunriver was the first International Dark Sky Place recognized in Oregon and one of only 142 recognized worldwide at the time of its certification.
snco.org
OREGON DARK SKY MAP
The map shows the estimated night sky brightness directly overhead (at the zenith), for the year 2023, modeled from night time satellite images that were captured by the NASA VIIRS imaging system at about 2AM local time. Night skies in the Oregon Outback are essentially pristine (black color), by comparison to areas of other colors. The dark green perimeter continued outward through the purple, gray and black represent dark skies.
OTHER PLACES & WAYS TO LEARN
Beyond Sunriver, Prineville Reservoir State Park, and the region’s five observatories, there are a number of other locations, tour operators, and events that cater to stargazers. And if all else fails, just find a dark corner of the region and look up!
Photo by Mitchell Griffin
HIGH DESERT MUSEUM
FOREST AT NIGHT EXPERIENCE
Forest at Night is an immersive, indoor space that gives visitors an up-close look at the nighttime activities of wildlife as well as the dark skies of the High Desert region. With projections and animations that engage all ages, Forest at Night explores the interplay of species throughout the forest, ranging from pollinators finding meadow forget-me-nots in the moonlight to a cougar tending to her kittens. Visitors will learn that, much like clean water and air, dark skies are a vital part of healthy ecosystems. highdesertmuseum.org
OREGON STAR PARTY
A fixture in Central Oregon since 1987, the Oregon Star Party is held over six days each summer around the new moon in the Ochoco National Forest east of Prineville. Oregon Star Party takes place in a primitive 40-acre (16 hectares) setting with unobstructed (and unpolluted) 360-degree views at an elevation of 5,000 feet (1,524 meters), near Indian Trail Spring. oregonstarparty.org
GRANT TANDY
SIDEWALK ASTRONOMER
Tandy is known for his public astronomy “pop-up” events, which allow the public to view celestial objects from various locations around Central Oregon. He also offers private stargazing events for groups, and leads astrophotography workshops. granttandy.com
COVE PALISADES STATE PARK
At Cove Palisades State Park, the park’s setting makes for an ideal backdrop for amateur astronomers to view the night sky. The Deschutes and Crooked River canyons, the placid expanse of Lake Billy Chinook, towering rimrock cliffs, and the lack of artificial light can make it difficult to choose between gazing up at the night skies, or looking around at the surrounding landscape. stateparks.oregon.gov
Bottom
photo by Matt Straite
WANDERLUST TOURS
Wanderlust Tours offers a variety of stargazing opportunities year round. Daily tours include their popular Moonlight & Starlight Snowshoe Tour in the winter and spring, as well as their Starlight & Moonlight Canoe Tour in the summer and fall. They also offer several stargazing focused special events such as their Perseids Meteor Shower Canoe Tour and Oregon Outback Stargazing Tours. wanderlusttours.com
Photo courtesy of Wanderlust Tours
LEAVE NO TRACE
As you embark on your celestial adventures, it’s essential to preserve these natural wonders. The principles of Leave No Trace provide a framework for responsible and sustainable outdoor practices. Following these guidelines will help you enjoy the night skies while minimizing your impact on the environment.
LEAVE NO TRACE PRINCIPALS
Plan Ahead and Prepare: Check weather conditions and moon phases to optimize stargazing experiences. Know the rules and regulations for the area you’ll visit. Ensure you have proper gear, including red/amber filtered flashlights or headlamps.
Travel and Camp on Durable Surfaces: Stick to established trails and campsites to prevent damaging the ecosystem. Avoid stepping on vegetation and disturbing wildlife habitats.
Dispose of Waste Properly: Remember to pack out all trash, including food scraps and small items like wrappers.
Leave What You Find: Preserve the natural environment by not picking plants, rocks, or other natural objects.
Minimize Campfire Impact: Use a stove for cooking and enjoy a fire-free stargazing experience. Be mindful of fire regulations and restrictions. If fires are permitted, use established fire rings, keep them small, and extinguish them completely before leaving.
Respect Wildlife: Observe wildlife from a distance and secure food and trash to prevent attracting animals.
Be Considerate of Other Visitors: Maintain a quiet atmosphere, especially during dark hours. Ask yourself if light is needed. If so, use dim, red/amber lights to avoid disrupting others’ night vision.
Share the importance of Leave No Trace principles with friends and family to encourage others to practice responsible outdoor etiquette and night sky viewing. Let’s work together to protect the environment for future generations.
lnt.org
FAQ
When is the best time for stargazing in Central Oregon?
With clear skies in abundance, there’s never really a bad time for a dark skies experience in Central Oregon. That being said, timing your viewing with a new moon phase often produces the darkest skies and best stargazing opportunities. Additionally, observatory access and hours of operation do vary by season, with Dee Wright Observatory and Pine Mountain Observatory being largely inaccessible during winter months.
Do I need a special permit?
Central Oregon’s night skies are free for all to enjoy, and the opportunities to do so are abundant in Central Oregon. Most commercial observatories either charge an admission fee or accept donations to help offset operating costs. Access to Oregon Bureau of Land Management property is generally free and does not require a pass or permit, while stargazing at Oregon State Parks facilities and on U.S. Forest Service land may require an entry fee or permit. At Prineville Reservoir State Park, if not camping, but staying into the evening, a free stargazing permit, available on their website, is required. Always be respectful of posted signs, and never trespass onto private property.
I don’t have a telescope. Can I still stargaze?
The short answer is YES! After adaptation to the dark, your unaided eyes can provide an awe-inspiring experience. Plus, Central Oregon’s commercial observatories boast researchgrade telescopes for public viewing with commentary by our expert astronomers.
Are there guided tours & trips available?
Yes! Wanderlust Tours offers a variety of stargazing opportunities year-round, including their popular Moonlight & Starlight Snowshoe Tour in winter, and their Starlight & Moonlight Canoe Tour in spring, summer, and fall. Local astronomy expert Grant Tandy also leads public and private stargazing events throughout the region. Additionally, while not technically ‘guided,’ the Pine Mountain Observatory and Oregon Observatory are staffed (hours vary by location and season) with experts who are happy to help you maximize your stargazing experience.
What should I wear?
Most stargazing experiences take place in an outdoor setting, and the nature of an observatory is such that even in an indoor setting, it’s likely to still be an open-air experience. As such, visitors and amateur astronomers should plan accordingly by dressing in layers, wearing sturdy shoes, bringing a flashlight or headlamp –preferably with a red lens or covered with red cellophane, and being prepared for all weather conditions regardless of season.
Visit Central Oregon recognizes our night sky as a resource and supports its stewardship into the future. In recent years, the VCO Future Fund supported the “Got Stars, Central Oregon?” project involving 9 organizations in Central Oregon, each working on a separate dark sky project. This included the creation of several public service announcements to help educate about typical outdoor lighting issues. VCO also helped fund Asterisk Astronomy Education and DarkSky Oregon: Beautiful Oregon Night Skies Educational Outreach.
visitcentraloregon.com/industry/future-fund darkskyoregon.org
Scan for additional information about the region’s dark skies opportunities, as well as some broader information about dark skies, astronomy, and more.
Photo courtesy of Wanderlust Tours
CENTRAL OREGON DARK SKY GUIDE
Editor Victoria Fisher
Designer Alex Jordan
Cover Photo by Grant Tandy
Special Thanks to DarkSky Oregon
DVA Advertising & Public Relations
High Desert Museum
Wanderlust Tours
Hashtag and Follow Us
@visitcentraloregon
@VisitCentralOR
Visitor Center
57100 Beaver Dr, Sunriver, OR 97707
Redmond Information Desk (across from baggage claim)
2522 Jesse Butler Cir, Redmond, OR 97756
Exploring Oregon’s night skies can be an awe-inspiring experience. This guide offers an overview for stargazing in Central Oregon and beyond. When venturing out into the wilderness, expect areas with little to no cell service, so familiarize yourself with GPS navigation and bring a map/ compass just in case. Pack the proper gear, bundle up in warm clothing, and bring any necessary supplies. Grab a friend for the journey, and let someone know your plans and expected return time. Practice Leave No Trace, stay prepared, and enjoy the celestial wonders!
© 2024 Dark Sky Guide
