El Malpais National Monument
Sky Score 64/100≈ Bortle 2
El Malpais National Monument is a protected area in New Mexico with a measured darkness of 88/100 (≈ Bortle 2), among the very darkest measurable skies in the American Southwest, the Milky Way casts visible shadows on moonless nights. The best month to come is typically May, when about 75% of the night sky is clear.
Tonight's outlook: 58/100. 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 Malpais National Monument
| Month | Clear night skies | Sky Score (new moon) |
|---|---|---|
| January | 57% | 58/100 |
| February | 64% | 63/100 |
| March | 64% | 62/100 |
| April | 72% | 69/100 |
| May ★ | 75% | 70/100 |
| June | 68% | 65/100 |
| July | 54% | 56/100 |
| August | 58% | 58/100 |
| September | 74% | 70/100 |
| October | 74% | 70/100 |
| November | 72% | 68/100 |
| December | 62% | 61/100 |
Scores assume a moonless night, check the moon before you drive (methodology).
Where to stay near El Malpais National Monument
No lodging within 80 km, this is true wilderness. Plan to camp, or base yourself in the nearest gateway town and drive out for the night.
Nearby spots in New Mexico
- La Ventana Arch Viewpoint 8.1 km · Sky Score 64/100
- El Calderon viewpoint 11.1 km · Sky Score 63/100
- Sandstone Bluff Overlook 15.6 km · Sky Score 61/100
- Canyons Wilderness Study Area 20.6 km · Sky Score 67/100
- El Morro National Monument 38.9 km · Sky Score 64/100