El Calderon viewpoint

Sky Score 63/100≈ Bortle 2

El Calderon viewpoint is a scenic viewpoint in New Mexico with a measured darkness of 86/100 (≈ Bortle 2) — a genuinely dark sky where the Milky Way is a bright, structured band. The best month to come is typically May, when about 75% of the night sky is clear.

Tonight's outlook: 57/100. The moon is 7% lit and above the horizon 13% of the night; typical August clear-sky odds here are 58%. Updated daily.

Best time to stargaze at El Calderon viewpoint

MonthClear night skiesSky Score (new moon)
January57%56/100
February64%61/100
March63%61/100
April72%67/100
May75%69/100
June69%64/100
July54%55/100
August58%57/100
September74%68/100
October74%68/100
November72%67/100
December62%60/100

Scores assume a moonless night — check the moon before you drive (methodology).

Where to stay near El Calderon viewpoint

Each place below is rated for the darkness at its own doorstep — stay dark, and the sky is yours from the parking lot.

Booking links are affiliate links — disclosure.

Nearby spots in New Mexico