Anderson Mesa Dark Sky Site

Anderson Mesa Dark Sky Site

Flagstaff, AZ

Anderson Mesa is a basalt-capped plateau southeast of Flagstaff that hosts several U.S. Naval Observatory and Lowell Observatory research telescopes. The mesa's 7,200-foot elevation and distance from Flagstaff's light dome provide Bortle Class 2-3 conditions. The flat, open terrain of the mesa top with scattered ponderosa pines offers accessible dark sky photography with natural foreground elements.

Photography Guide

Best Time
night
Crowds
Quiet
Shot Types
astrophotographylong-exposurewidelandscape
Best Seasons
springsummerfall
Practical Tips
Access via Lake Mary Road south of Flagstaff; several forest roads branch off to open areas suitable for astrophotography. Do not approach or illuminate the observatory facilities, and be aware that the road can be icy in winter months.

Gallery

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