Colorado Stargazing: The 10 Best Constellations and Locations for Beginners
Stargazing in Colorado can be a magical and rewarding experience, especially in the clear, dark skies of the Colorado high country. If you are new to stargazing, it can be overwhelming to try to identify all of the constellations in the sky. Fortunately, several constellations are relatively easy to spot and identify, even for beginners. Here are ten constellations that are easy for beginners to identify while stargazing in Colorado, along with some advice to get started and a few locations to try visiting.
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Best Beginner Constellations for Colorado Stargazing
These constellations are all relatively easy to find, even if you are new to Colorado stargazing. They’re an excellent place to get started!
1. Orion
Orion is one of the most recognizable constellations in the night sky. It is located on the celestial equator and is visible from most locations on Earth. The constellation is characterized by three bright stars in a row, known as the “Belt of Orion,” and two bright stars on either side, known as the “Shoulders of Orion.” The constellation also includes the bright red supergiant star Betelgeuse, located near the top left of the constellation.
2. Big Dipper
The Big Dipper is part of the constellation Ursa Major, also known as the Great Bear. It is located in the northern sky and is visible throughout the year in Colorado. The constellation is characterized by seven bright stars that form the shape of a ladle or dipper. The two brightest stars in the constellation, Dubhe and Merak, are known as the “pointer stars” because they point towards the North Star, Polaris.
3. Little Dipper
The Little Dipper is part of the constellation Ursa Minor, also known as the Little Bear. It is located in the northern sky, near the Big Dipper, and is visible throughout the year in Colorado. The constellation is characterized by seven bright stars that form the shape of a small dipper. The brightest star in the constellation is Polaris, also known as the North Star, which is located at the end of the handle of the dipper.
4. Cassiopeia
Cassiopeia is a constellation located near the Big and Little Dippers in the northern sky. It is visible throughout the year in Colorado. The constellation is characterized by five bright stars that form a distinctive W-shaped pattern. Cassiopeia is named after a vain queen in Greek mythology who boasted about her beauty and was punished by being placed in the sky upside down.
5. Cygnus
Cygnus is a constellation located in the northern sky, near the Big Dipper and Cassiopeia. It is visible throughout the year in Colorado. The constellation is characterized by a distinctive cross-shaped pattern formed by five bright stars. The constellation is named after the swan, a symbol of grace and beauty in Greek mythology.
6. Scorpius
Scorpius is a constellation located in the southern sky. It is visible from late spring to early fall in Colorado. The constellation is characterized by a distinctive pattern of stars that form the shape of a scorpion. The brightest star in the constellation is Antares, a red supergiant star located near the center of the scorpion’s body. This is my favorite constellation to find while Colorado stargazing.
7. Sagittarius
Sagittarius is a constellation located in the southern sky, near Scorpius. It is visible from late fall to early spring in Colorado. The constellation is characterized by a distinctive pattern of stars that form the shape of an archer or centaur. The brightest star in the constellation is Kaus Australis, located near the tip of the archer’s bow.
8. Aquarius
Aquarius is a constellation located in the southern sky, near Sagittarius. It is visible from late fall to early spring in Colorado. The constellation is characterized by a distinctive pattern of stars that form the shape of a water bearer or pitcher. The brightest star in the constellation is Sadalmelek, located near the top of the pitcher.
9. Taurus
Taurus is a constellation located in the northern sky, near Orion. It is visible throughout the year in Colorado. The constellation is characterized by a distinctive pattern of stars that form the shape of a bull’s head. The brightest star in the constellation is Aldebaran, located near the center of the bull’s head.
10. Cepheus
Cepheus is a constellation located in the northern sky, near Cassiopeia. It is visible throughout the year in Colorado. The constellation is characterized by a distinctive pattern of stars that form the shape of a king’s crown. The brightest star in the constellation is Alderamin, located near the top of the crown.
Five Tips for New Colorado Stargazers
If you are new to stargazing, don’t make the same mistakes as others. These simple tips will help ensure you have a positive first experience and have the best chance possible to see some beautiful stars and constellations. If you have any tips or suggestions, leave a comment below at the bottom of the article. We’d love to learn from your Colorado stargazing experiences too!
1. Find a dark sky location for Colorado Stargazing
Colorado has some great spots for stargazing, such as the Great Sand Dunes National Park, the San Juan Mountains, and the Rocky Mountain National Park. To get the best view of the stars, try to find a location that is far from city lights and other sources of light pollution. I included twelve good options further below.
2. Choose the right time to go stargazing
The best time for stargazing is during the new moon phase, when the moon is not visible in the sky. This allows for the darkest skies and the best view of the stars. Winter is also a good season because the nights are longer and darkness comes more quickly. Colder air is typically denser and clearer, which means the stars will be brighter and more visible. In addition, the lack of vegetation and other distractions can make it easier to spot constellations and other celestial objects.
3. Bring the right equipment
A pair of binoculars or a telescope can enhance your stargazing experience, but they are not necessary. If you do decide to bring equipment, be sure to bring a red flashlight, as white light can ruin your night vision. A comfortable blanket or camping chair is also helpful if you plan to sit on the ground for your Colorado stargazing trip.
4. Dress appropriately to go Colorado Stargazing
Colorado stargazing can get chilly at night, especially in the winter, so be sure to dress warmly. Layering is a good idea, as you can remove layers if you get too warm. A blanket is a good idea too if you plan to stay in the same location.
5. Learn the constellations
Familiarizing yourself with the constellations can make stargazing more enjoyable and help you identify what you are looking at. Many resources are available to help you learn the constellations, including books, apps, and online guides. The ten constellations we listed above are a good places to get started.
10 Best Spots for Colorado Stargazing
From iconic national parks to secluded reservoirs and everything in between, these locations offer a variety of breathtaking views of the stars. Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced astronomer, you’re sure to find a spot that suits your needs. So grab your telescope (or just your naked eye) and get ready to explore the beauty of the cosmos in Colorado. Happy stargazing!
Colorado Stargazing Spots Near Denver
Denver Mountain Parks:
Denver has a number of mountain parks within a two-hour drive of the city that are excellent locations for stargazing. These parks, which include Mount Evans, Mount Goliath, and Mount Falcon, offer high elevations, dark skies, and breathtaking views of the night sky.
Rocky Mountain National Park:
Located about an hour and a half northwest of Denver, Rocky Mountain National Park is another excellent location for stargazing. The park’s high elevations, dark skies, and breathtaking views of the night sky make it a great spot for observing the stars.
Pawnee National Grassland:
Located about two hours northeast of Denver, Pawnee National Grassland is a great location for stargazing. The grassland’s remote location, high elevation, and relatively low levels of light pollution make it an ideal spot for observing the stars.
State Forest State Park:
Located about two hours northwest of Denver, State Forest State Park is another excellent location for stargazing. The park’s high elevations, dark skies, and remote location make it a great spot for observing the stars.
Colorado Stargazing Spots Near Colorado Springs
Cheyenne Mountain State Park
Located just south of Colorado Springs, this state park offers dark skies and beautiful views of the stars. The park is relatively secluded, so you can enjoy the peacefulness of the night sky without distractions.
Mueller State Park
Located just west of Colorado Springs, Mueller State Park offers over 5,000 acres of wilderness to explore. The park is located at a high elevation, which means the air is clear and the stars are visible.
Pikes Peak:
At an elevation of over 14,000 feet, Pikes Peak offers some of the best stargazing in the state. The air is thin at this altitude, which means the stars are particularly bright and vibrant.
Crystal Reservoir:
Located about an hour west of Colorado Springs, Crystal Reservoir is a hidden gem for stargazers. Nestled in the foothills of the Rocky Mountains, this small body of water is surrounded by beautiful, secluded wilderness. On a clear night, the stars above the reservoir are particularly vibrant and bright, making for an unforgettable stargazing experience.
Colorado Stargazing Spots Near Grand Junction
Grand Mesa National Forest:
Located about an hour east of Grand Junction, this vast forest offers some of the darkest skies in the area, making it perfect for stargazing. With an elevation of more than 11,000 feet, this forest is ideal for spotting celestial bodies and constellations.
Curecanti National Recreation Area:
Located about an hour and a half southeast of Grand Junction, this recreation area is another great location for stargazing. The high elevation and dark skies make it an ideal spot for observing the stars.
Colorado Stargazing Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What is the best time of year for stargazing?
A: The best time of year for stargazing depends on where you are located. In general, the winter months tend to offer the best stargazing conditions due to the clear, dry air and longer nights. However, stargazing can be enjoyable at any time of year, as long as the weather conditions are good and the sky is clear.
Q: How can I avoid light pollution when stargazing?
A: Light pollution is a common problem when stargazing, as it can make it difficult to see faint objects in the sky. To avoid light pollution, try to find a location that is far from city lights and other sources of artificial light. You may also want to use a red light or red filter when stargazing, as this type of light is less disruptive to your night vision.
Q: What is the history of stargazing?
A: Stargazing has likely been practiced by humans for thousands of years. Prehistoric cultures used the stars and celestial bodies for various purposes, including navigation, timekeeping, and religious rituals. Many ancient civilizations, including the ancient Egyptians, Greeks, and Chinese, made significant contributions to the field of stargazing. These cultures developed sophisticated systems for observing and interpreting the stars and celestial bodies, and they used this knowledge for a variety of purposes, including calendar-making and divination.
During the Middle Ages and Renaissance, stargazing became more focused on understanding the scientific principles behind celestial phenomena. Astronomers such as Ptolemy and Copernicus made significant contributions to our understanding of the universe and the movements of celestial bodies.
In the modern era, stargazing has continued to advance through the development of new technologies and techniques. Astronomers now use telescopes, satellites, and other tools to observe and study the stars and celestial bodies in unprecedented detail.
Q: What are some common misconceptions about stargazing or astronomy?
Myth 1: Stargazing is only for scientists or experts: While it is true that professional astronomers and scientists study the stars and celestial bodies as part of their work, stargazing is a hobby that anyone can enjoy. All you need is a clear sky, a sense of curiosity, and a desire to learn.
Myth 2: Stargazing is only possible at night: While stargazing is typically associated with the night sky, it is possible to observe celestial bodies during the day as well. For example, the sun, moon, and planets can all be observed during the day, if the conditions are right.
Myth 3: All stars are the same: While all stars may look similar to the naked eye, they are actually very different from one another. Stars come in a wide range of sizes, colors, and ages, and they have different characteristics and properties.
Colorado Stargazing: Now You Know!
Overall, these ten constellations are a great starting point for beginners interested in stargazing in Colorado. With a bit of practice, you will soon be able to spot these constellations and many others in the night sky. If you are new to stargazing, consider downloading a stargazing app or purchasing a star chart to help you identify the constellations and other celestial objects. With a bit of patience and persistence, you will soon be able to enjoy the beauty and wonder of the night sky in Colorado.
Additional Resources for Colorado Stargazing:
Here are some additional websites and resources to help you find Colorado stargazing locations, plan your visit, and have a great experience. If you have any suggestions for additional resources to include, please leave a comment below. We would love to share it with our community of outdoor enthusiasts!
Alex is an Eagle Scout, climber, and environmental policy expert located in Denver, Colorado. He created The Next Summit to help others stay safe exploring the mountains and advocate to preserve the peaks for the future. Follow him on Linkedin or Twitter or click here to contact him.
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