Dan's Astrophotography

This is a local spot for me, near the top of Palomar Mountain on the first 1/4 mile down East Grade Road. Over 5000 feet in elevation, the seeing here is usually excellent. Light pollution is getting pretty bad in the surrounding areas, but it’s not uncommon for a marine layer to shroud the cities below, preventing their light pollution from spilling up into the sky.

This spot is just a large turnout. No power, no facilities, just a turnout on the side of the road large enough so that there is no chance of any car hitting you and sending you over the edge.

GPS: 33° 18′ 38.96″ N 116° 51′ 44.29″ W

Google Maps

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This is the site used by the San Diego Astronomy Association. It’s about an hour’s drive east of the city of San Diego in a very dark area just a few thousand feet from the Mexican border. As a contributing member of the SDAA I get access to the site whenever I want. It features electrical outlets everywhere, restrooms with warm water, a warming room complete with microwaves, refrigerator, coffee maker and a little library.  I usually set up on the public pads (in photos), but members can purchase their own private pad or observatory on the site.

For more information including weather conditions and driving directions visit SDAA’s TDS Page.

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I really enjoyed this site. Went out on November 21st, 2009 (my birthday). Easily some of the darkest skies I’ve ever seen in Southern California. Mount Laguna was to the west of us, I could easily see the observatory with my scope during the day. It’s a regular campsite with bathrooms, water, fire pits and plenty of space. The SDAA will occasionally host public star parties here.

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