Prime Orionids Meteor Shower Viewing Spots

The clear skies and not having a major metro in our area makes for prime Orionids meteor shower viewing.

The Orionids meteor shower peaks this weekend. The Orionids are fragments of Haley’s Comet, one of the most famous comets which last flew past Earth in 1986 and isn't scheduled to return until 2061. The Orionids is the most productive of showers producing 10-20 meteors an hour. In some cases cranking out as many as 50-70 an hour. You'll want to stay up late. If you wait until after 1:30 am the sky will be darker because, by this time, the Moon will have set.

We're blessed with several cool spots to take in the spectacle. Of course, our regional National Parks are great locations. Arches National Park in eastern Utah and The Black Canyon of The Gunnison are two places. If traveling that far isn't an option the Colorado National Monument works too although there will be the lights of Grand Junction to contend with. On top of The Grand Mesa works nicely. You'll need to pack the extra outerwear because it's downright cold at night up there. The fact is anywhere away from city lights will work. Stay up late this weekend and take in the show. You'll be glad you did.

The Grand Junction area weather forecast from the National Weather Service...

Saturday Night, Mostly clear, with a low around 31. West northwest wind around 5 mph becoming calm in the evening.