Zurich, Switzerland Clear Sky Chart

Zurich, Switzerland (47.38°, 8.54°) · Updated 15:06 CEST
46
Mixed
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.

Marginal, check the window
BEST 21:00–22:00 (1h)
Mostly cloudy with very low moonlight. ISS pass at 20:22 — bright overhead (78°).
Sunset
19:42
Sunrise
07:01
Usable Hours
1/9
Moon
6%
Visible Planets
♂ Mars34° E
♃ Jupiter13° E
♄ Saturn45° S
⛢ Uranus61° SE
♆ Neptune43° S
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Stargazing in Zurich, Switzerland

Zurich's lakeside setting and Alpine proximity make it one of Europe's more pleasant observing cities. Bortle 6–7 in the city drops to Bortle 4 heading south into the Alps or east into Appenzell. Switzerland's high-altitude sites (Grimsel Pass, Julier Pass) provide excellent conditions above the inversion layer. The Swiss Plateau can trap fog in autumn and winter, but Alpine sites above 1,500m are often crystal clear above the cloud.

Zurich, Switzerland Stargazing FAQ

Where can I stargaze near Zurich?
The Swiss Alps to the south offer excellent conditions above the inversion layer. Grimsel Pass and Julier Pass provide high-altitude observing sites. Rural Appenzell to the east reaches Bortle 4 within 90 minutes.
Does fog affect stargazing in Zurich?
Yes — the Swiss Plateau can trap fog in autumn and winter, but this is actually an advantage: Alpine sites above 1,500m are often crystal clear above the cloud layer, with exceptionally transparent skies.
When is the best time to stargaze in Zurich?
Late autumn and winter at altitude — head above the fog layer to Alpine sites for the clearest conditions. Summer nights are short but Alpine observing is pleasant in warmer months.