Celestial Marvels Await in Nevada’s Dark Skies

Nevada, renowned for its dark skies, is set to offer a celestial spectacle with a Blood Moon on March 3, 2026. The phenomenon, where the moon will pass into the Earth’s shadow, creating a reddish hue, will last approximately 58 minutes and be visible from Asia, Australia, the Pacific Islands, and the Americas. Northern Nevada, home to the Massacre Rim Wilderness, is one of the few global sanctuaries recognized for its pristine night skies, making it an ideal location to witness this event.

The Great Basin National Park, located 355 miles from Las Vegas, offers free admission and is another prime spot for stargazing. Visitors can also embark on Ely’s historic Star Train, which runs from May to September. Tickets start at $61 (approximately £50) per person, and passengers are guided by Dark Sky Rangers through the night sky’s wonders.

For those seeking a more remote experience, the Massacre Rim Wilderness Study Area in northwestern Nevada is a designated dark sky sanctuary with zero light pollution. Situated 4.5 hours north of Reno, it offers a unique camping experience, though a four-wheel drive is recommended for safe exploration.

Travellers along Nevada’s Extraterrestrial Highway might spot more than just stars, as the road passes near Area 51, offering potential sightings of UFOs and satellites. The nearby town of Tonopah, with its luxurious Belvada Hotel, provides a base for exploring the Tonopah Stargazing Park, known for its minimal light pollution and excellent stargazing conditions.