Dark Skies & Deep Space: Orionids and the Science of Starlight
Listed by Public Events and Programs
About
With the moon below the horizon and the air turning crisp, October offers some of the best skies of the year. Join us for a night of stargazing beneath a truly dark sky as the Orionid meteor shower lights up the heavens—meteors born from Halley’s Comet.
Through telescopes and guided interpretation, you’ll witness the quiet return of winter’s starry giants—Orion, Taurus, and the glittering Pleiades—as they rise over the eastern horizon. View star clusters, distant nebulae, and even galaxies, all while learning how our skies shift with the seasons.
Join OSMP staff and partners from the Longmont Astronomical Society, DarkSky Colorado, and CU’s Fiske Planetarium for telescope viewing, expert interpretation, and skywatching tips for all experience levels.
Together, we’ll explore:
- Orionid meteor shower and more!
- Tips for observing under dark-sky conditions
- What to watch for in the changing seasonal sky
Telescopes are provided on this family-friendly event! All ages and experience levels are welcome.
What to bring:
- Red flashlight or headlamp – Helps preserve night vision (avoid white light)
- Warm layers – Nights cool off quickly, even in summer
- Blanket or camp chair
- Water and snacks – Stargazing is better when you’re hydrated and happy!
- Binoculars – Some deep space objects are better viewed with simple binoculars instead of large telescopes!
People
Non-Profit / Community Organization
Recent Impacts
Location
4P39+CCH - Altona, Colorado
Sustainable Development Goals
