Los Angeles, US Stargazing Forecast

Los Angeles, US (34.05°, -118.24°) · Updated 15:57 UTC
35
Poor
high confidence ⓘ
high · Forecast lead time

Based on how far ahead tonight is, forecasts are most reliable within 24–48 hours.

Confidence reflects how trustworthy the forecast is, it doesn't change the score.

Marginal, check the window
BEST 04:00–08:00 (4h)
Mostly clear skies but bright moonlight limits faint objects. Delta Aquariids meteor shower peaks tonight (ZHR ~25).
Sunset
02:55
Sunrise
13:03
Usable Hours
4/8
Moon
99%
Visible Planets
♂ Mars21° E
♄ Saturn57° SE
Open Full Los Angeles, US Forecast →
Hour-by-hour scores · Planet rise/set & visibility · ISS & satellite passes · Moon detail · Full score breakdown · Aurora & observer profiles

Stargazing in Los Angeles, US

LA's basin traps light pollution (Bortle 8–9), but the surrounding mountains provide a dramatic escape. Mount Wilson Observatory sits above the glow with Bortle 5–6 skies, and Joshua Tree National Park (2.5 hours east) offers Bortle 3 darkness. Southern California's climate gives over 280 clear nights per year — one of the highest rates in the US. Santa Ana wind conditions in autumn bring exceptional transparency, making planets and the Moon razor-sharp. If you're checking the Los Angeles sky tonight, the question is usually simple: clear or not? ClearSkys scores the LA night sky hour by hour so you know exactly when conditions are worth catching from the hills or the coast.

Los Angeles, US Stargazing FAQ

Is the sky clear tonight in Los Angeles?∨
ClearSkys scores the LA night sky hour by hour, factoring in cloud, marine layer, moon and wind. A high score means the sky's clear and settled; you'll also see the best window of the night, whether you're observing from the city, Griffith, or up toward Mount Wilson.
Can you stargaze in Los Angeles?∨
LA's basin light pollution is intense, but the Griffith Observatory hosts excellent public viewing. The surrounding mountains provide dramatic escapes — Mount Wilson sits above the glow with notably darker skies.
Where is the best dark sky near Los Angeles?∨
Joshua Tree National Park (2.5 hours east) offers Bortle 3 darkness and is a popular astrophotography destination. The Angeles National Forest and Death Valley are other excellent options.
How many clear nights does Los Angeles get?∨
Southern California enjoys over 280 clear nights per year — one of the highest rates in the US. Santa Ana wind conditions in autumn bring exceptional transparency.

Stargazing guides

Is Tonight Good for Stargazing?

The answer depends on five things you can check right now.

Light Pollution & the Bortle Scale

How dark is your sky — and what difference does it make?

What Planets Are Visible Tonight?

Real visibility data for all 7 naked-eye and telescope planets, calculated for your location.

Meteor Shower Calendar 2026

Every shower this year — peak dates, expected rates, moon interference, and the two you absolutely cannot miss.
Check light pollution for this area ↗

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