Physics : Darker Skies = Better Quality Imaging
- At 9.5M acres Big Bend is the largest protected International Dark Sky Reserve on earth and the darkest skies in the US. Thus, we are the only remote imaging observatories located in the largest protected International Dark Sky Reserve in the world. Check out our Light Pollution page to see how we compare to other observatories in the U.S.
- Our skies are classified as Bortle 1 with impressively low sky glow, exceptional transparency and dry air. An average of 9" of rainfall per year contributes to more clear imaging nights.
- Protected dark skies means long term sky stability - there is little to no risk of light pollution growth.
- We have virtually zero air traffic; with the exception being the occasional search and rescue planes.
Our site is optimized for signal-to-noise
- Longer usable exposures, fewer gradients and deeper images in less time. No amount of processing can compete with superior photon collection.
- More faint targets are obtainable.
- Faster integration times for the same results and longer exposures.
Reliability
- High speed data transfer with symmetrical gigabit fiber internet and reliable networking.
- Fast and professional tech support.
- Our facility is secure and in a remote location with state of the art video surveillance and staff members on site 24/7.
State of the art observatory buildings
- All buildings are climate controlled- Our observatories are air conditioned, insulated and protected from the elements .
- All buildings are completely sealed with custom designed anti-lift automated roll off roofs.
- Each building is equipped with state of the art weather monitoring systems and environmental controls.
- All automated and weather monitoring systems are on UPS.
