The best time to go stargazing in Iowa is summer, when the Milky Way rises before midnight, and the sky is lit up by bright stars and planets visible to the naked eye. In June, you’ll be able to see Jupiter without a telescope – all you need is a decent pair of binoculars to see the solar system’s largest planet and several of its moons. To see this stunning sight, head to one of the darkest spots in Iowa.
Iowa is home to a notable dark sky site, the Whiterock Conservancy, where you’ll find unparalleled views of the stars and universe up above.
Facebook / Whiterock Conservancy
This 5,500 acre natural preserve is home to a campground, hiking trails, wildlife, and more. It’s truly a nature lover’s paradise in the daylight! This June, though, you’ll want to visit for what shows up after dark.
Flickr / mlhauge
This June, Jupiter will be so close to the Earth that you’ll be able to see it with binoculars. Set up your campsite and wait for the sun to set.
Facebook / Whiterock Conservancy
Summertime is the best time for stargazing, thanks to great weather and late moonrises. Telescopes are the best stargazing tool, but you’ll be able to spot planets with binoculars, too.
Facebook / Whiterock Conservancy
There’s plenty of time to sit underneath a pitch-black sky and watch the stars truly shine. Jupiter itself will be in the sky all night, so you don’t have to pull an all-nighter to catch a glimpse.
Flickr / mlhauge
Jupiter is the largest planet in our solar system, and it has 79 moons. You’ll be able to spot the four largest - Io, Europa, Ganymede, and Callisto with your telescope or binoculars.
Flickr / NASA
Plan your trip out to the Whiterock Conservancy in June and enjoy a night of stargazing. There’s no more relaxing way to spend a summer weekend.
Flickr / Rich
Whiterock Conservancy Address: 1436 IA-141, Coon Rapids, IA, 50058
Facebook / Whiterock Conservancy
Flickr / mlhauge
Flickr / NASA
Flickr / Rich
For more information on the Conservancy’s stargazing programs, visit their website here.
For more great campsites where you may get to enjoy some dark sky, read about 8 Secluded Campgrounds In Iowa You’ve Never Heard Of.
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