Denver, CO – Stargazers across the Rocky Mountains will have an opportunity to see shooting stars tonight as the Ursid meteor shower reaches its annual peak from Sunday night, December 21, into early Monday morning, December 22. Under clear, high-altitude skies, viewers may spot up to 10 meteors per hour, particularly during the overnight hours.
According to NASA and the American Meteor Society, the best time to watch the Ursids will be from late Sunday evening through dawn Monday. The meteors radiate from near the bright star Kochab in the constellation Ursa Minor, which remains visible above the northern horizon throughout December and climbs higher as the night progresses.
The Ursid meteor shower is typically modest but can occasionally produce brief bursts of activity. Observers across Colorado, Wyoming, Montana, Utah, and northern New Mexico are encouraged to find dark locations away from city lights, take advantage of clear mountain air, dress for cold and potentially snowy conditions, and allow time for their eyes to adjust to the darkness.
With the shower peaking near the winter solstice, the Rockies will experience one of the longest nights of the year, offering extended viewing opportunities if skies remain clear. While quieter than other major meteor showers, the Ursids provide a calm and scenic skywatching experience across the Rocky Mountain region.
