Stargazing can feel intimidating if you don’t know where to start, but the Summer Triangle is an easy place to begin. Made up of Vega, Deneb and Altair, the massive star pattern is visible across the Northern Hemisphere during summer.
And the best part is that you don’t need a telescope to see it.
How to find the Summer Triangle
Look toward the eastern sky after dark and search for Vega, the brightest of the three stars. Once you’ve found it, look for Deneb and Altair nearby. Together, they form a large triangle stretching across the sky.
The three stars are part of different constellations: Vega is in Lyra, Deneb is in Cygnus, and Altair is in Aquila.
The Milky Way also runs through the Summer Triangle, although L.A.’s light pollution makes it difficult to see from the city.
Where to stargaze in L.A.
For an easy introduction to stargazing, head to Griffith Observatory. Its location on Mount Hollywood provides expansive views of the sky, and the observatory regularly hosts public telescope programs and star parties.
For darker skies, consider heading into the San Gabriel Mountains or toward Mount Wilson. Just check road conditions and closures before making the trip.
The best views are outside L.A.
If you really want to see the Summer Triangle surrounded by stars, make the drive to Joshua Tree National Park.
The park is an International Dark Sky Park, and the National Park Service specifically recommends it for stargazing. On a clear, moonless night, you can see the Summer Triangle alongside the Milky Way.
Anza-Borrego Desert State Park is another excellent option for escaping Southern California’s light pollution. And while you’re gazing, keep an eye out for UFOs as well!
When to go
Late summer is a great time to spot the Summer Triangle. Choose a clear night with minimal moonlight and give your eyes 20–30 minutes to adjust to the darkness.
And remember, you don’t need fancy equipment. Your eyes are enough to spot the three stars.
So whether you’re standing beneath the Hollywood Hills or camping beneath the desert sky, look up. Vega, Deneb and Altair are waiting.
