Moonlight - Atacama Desert

This forecast tracks the exceptional moonlight photography conditions that make the Atacama Desert as compelling under full moon as it is under new moon. We combine moon phase, lunar elevation, cloud cover, and atmospheric transparency to predict optimal moonlit landscape conditions.

The same qualities that make the Atacama the world's premier observatory site—extremely dry air, high altitude averaging 2,400m+, and absolute zero light pollution—create moonlight photography conditions unmatched anywhere on Earth. The desert's salt flats and pale volcanic landscapes reflect moonlight with an intensity that must be seen to be believed.

What makes Atacama special for moonlight photography:

• Exceptional atmospheric clarity - The driest air on Earth means brilliant moonlight with minimal scattering
• High altitude advantage - Above 2,400m, moonlight passes through less atmosphere
• Reflective landscapes - Massive salt flats at Salar de Atacama mirror the moon like giant reflectors
• Zero light pollution - Bortle 1 skies mean moonlight illuminates the landscape without competition

The salt flats near San Pedro de Atacama become surreal alien landscapes under full moon, with the Licancabur volcano rising dramatically against the starlit sky. Valle de la Luna's otherworldly rock formations take on ghostly beauty. Even at full moon, the Milky Way remains visible here—a phenomenon impossible in most locations. Photographers familiar with astro work will find moonlight exposures dramatically shorter than elsewhere, thanks to the exceptional clarity.