Dark Sky Magnitudes

[Fay]

how do you find out dark sky magnitudes for your area?

[Mac]

Look up, If you can see anything, its dark. 

Use Ursa Minor as your viewing chart, work out what the dimmest star is you can see and take it from there.



Mac

[mickw]

Or...................

A simulation is here (and somewhere on this site)
http://www.need-less.org.uk/night%20sky%20simulator.html#

[Mike]

The stars inside the SQUARE OF PEGASUS also make a good indicator.

[mickw]

Or..............................

Get one of these and don't trust your eyes 

http://www.altairastro.com/product.php?productid=16244

[Carole]

I've always used the Bortle Scale, non technical but simple explanation. 
http://www.skyandtelescope.com/astronomy-resources/light-pollution-and-astronomy-the-bortle-dark-sky-scale/

Carole

[Fay]

Thanks for all that. what is it that Mark holds up to the sky to measure it. eg Kielder is 21.9

[mickw]

One of these
http://www.altairastro.com/product.php?productid=16244

[Fay]

thats it Mick

[JohnP]

Why do you want to know Fay?

[Fay]

someone was asking about my skies.