Nairobi, Kenya Clear Sky Chart

Nairobi, Kenya (-1.29°, 36.82°) · Updated 17:34 EAT
33
Poor
high confidence ⓘ
high · Forecast stability

Tonight's forecast has held steady across recent updates. We compare how much tonight's score has moved across our recent forecast updates, a score that's held steady is more trustworthy.

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

Probably skip tonight
BEST · MOON UP 21:00–22:00 (1h)
Partly cloudy with some clear gaps with moderate moon interference. High dew risk, so optics will fog without dew heaters.
Sunset
18:21
Sunrise
06:11
Usable Hours
2/11
Moon
90%
Visible Planets
☿ Mercury12° W
♂ Mars49° NE
♃ Jupiter45° E
♄ Saturn87° N
⛢ Uranus68° N
♆ Neptune89° NE
Sky darkness
City sky (Bortle 8-9)
SQM 17.8, estimated from satellite night lights. A property of the place, separate from tonight’s score. How we estimate this
Open Full Nairobi, Kenya Forecast →
Hour-by-hour scores · Planet rise/set & visibility · ISS & satellite passes · Moon detail · Full score breakdown · Aurora & observer profiles

Stargazing in Nairobi, Kenya

Nairobi sits nearly on the equator (1.3°S), giving it the unique ability to see virtually the entire celestial sphere throughout the year. Kenya's Rift Valley and highland regions provide excellent observing at altitude (Nairobi itself is at 1,795m). Light pollution (Bortle 6–7) drops quickly outside the city. The dry seasons (January–February, July–October) bring the clearest conditions. Both Polaris and the Southern Cross are visible — a rare combination achievable at very few locations.

Nairobi, Kenya Stargazing FAQ

Can you see both Polaris and the Southern Cross from Nairobi?∨
Yes — Nairobi sits nearly on the equator at 1.3°S, making it one of the very few locations where both Polaris (low on the northern horizon) and the Southern Cross are visible. Almost the entire celestial sphere is accessible.
Where can I stargaze near Nairobi?∨
Kenya's Rift Valley provides excellent observing at altitude. Lake Naivasha and the Maasai Mara are popular options. Light pollution drops quickly outside the city. Nairobi itself sits at 1,795m, which helps transparency.
When is the best time to stargaze in Nairobi?∨
The dry seasons (January-February and July-October) bring the clearest conditions. Kenya's equatorial position means nights are roughly 12 hours year-round — no seasonal extremes in darkness.