Star Safari Observatory operates a dark sky meter to keep a track of how dark the sky is. The observatory is located in the Wairarapa Dark Sky Reserve. This is an internationally recognised reserve encompassing the Carterton and the South Wairarapa Districts. Star Safari Observatory is close to the centre of the reserve and enjoys outsatanding dark skies.

The above five graphs show information collected by the meter. The top graph is shows the measure of how dark the sky is in units of magnitude per square arsecond over the last 24 hours. We typically get readings of over 21.7, in conditions of no Moon and clear skies. 

The second graph shows the sky brightness, using the same measure for the last 30mins for a more detailed view.

The third graph gives an idea of the cloud cover over the last 15mins. Values less than about 250 show periods of clear skies.

The fourth graph shows temperature over the previous 30mins.

The final graph shows the distribution of clear skies / partially clear / overcast skies in a pi chart.