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Sankaty Head Lighthouse

Fl W 7.5s🇺🇸Southeastern Massachusetts, USOperational

Location & Light Range

About Sankaty Head Lighthouse

Sankaty Head Light stands on Nantucket island, marking the island's easternmost point in the village of Siasconset. Constructed in 1850, this tower reaches a height of 21 meters, with its light situated 48 meters above sea level. The lighthouse displays a white light that operates continuously. Automation of the light occurred in 1965, and the facility remains operational today. It was among the earliest lighthouses in the United States to be equipped with a Fresnel lens.

Why it matters: Sankaty Head Light is listed on the National Register of Historic Places.

Background
The Sankaty Head Light is a lighthouse located on Nantucket island. It was built in 1850, was automated in 1965, and is still in operation. It is located at the easternmost point of the island, in the village of Siasconset. It was one of the first lighthouses in the United States to receive a Fresnel lens.

Light & Optic

Characteristic Signature
Fl W 7.5s
Flash Type
Flashing
Light Color
White
Flash Count
1 flash
Interval
7.5s
Focal Height
48m

Construction & History

Heritage Status
National Register of Historic Places listed place

References & Identifiers

Wikipedia
Read on Wikipedia →
Wikidata
Q7418689 →
OpenStreetMap
View on OSM →

Tower & Structure

Tower Height
21m

Location

City
Southeastern Massachusetts
Country
🇺🇸US
Latitude
41.2836°
Longitude
-69.9652°

Nearby Vessels

Flag
Type
Name
Dist.
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Frequently Asked Questions

How do mariners identify Sankaty Head Lighthouse at night?+
Sankaty Head displays the characteristic Fl W 7.5s — 1 white flash every 7.5 seconds. Each lighthouse has a unique flash pattern published in the List of Lights, allowing mariners to positively identify it and distinguish it from other navigation aids in the area.
Which ports and harbors does Sankaty Head Lighthouse guide vessels into?+
Sankaty Head Lighthouse assists vessels approaching 5 nearby ports. The closest is NANTUCKET at 5.8 NM to the W. Other ports served include Chatham (22.9 NM N), SHIP SHOPS (24.7 NM NNW), Edgartown (25.3 NM WNW), West Yarmouth (25.5 NM NNW). Mariners should consult the relevant chart for full approach and pilotage information.
Is Sankaty Head Lighthouse still active and maintained?+
Yes, Sankaty Head Lighthouse is currently operational. It is actively maintained and continues to emit its characteristic light signal for marine navigation. Most modern lighthouses are automated and monitored remotely by the national maritime authority.
How can I track vessels near Sankaty Head Lighthouse?+
You can track vessels near Sankaty Head Lighthouse in real time using MarineRadar. The platform shows live AIS positions of ships in the area, including vessel name, type, flag, speed, and course. Use the "Track Vessels Nearby" button on this page to open the live map centered on this lighthouse.