November 16, 2022
Getting away from city lights is important to see the night sky at its best. From the equator an observer can see about 9,000 stars with the unaided eye. At mid-latitudes the number is only 6,800. Scientists think the Milky Way galaxy may have as many as 400 billion stars.
While Missouri isn’t the best place in the U.S. to view a dark sky, there are still some areas in the state that provide excellent views. This map shows the relative light pollution in Missouri, with bright whites and reds indicating city centers with extreme light pollution. Areas in and around Mark Twain National Forest provide the best views in the state. Image credit: International Dark Sky Association Missouri Chapter.
