Denver, US Stargazing Forecast

Denver, US (39.74°, -104.99°) · Updated 11:03 UTC
52
Mixed
high confidence
high · Forecast stability

Tonight's forecast has held steady across recent updates. We compare how much tonight's score has moved across our recent forecast updates, a score that's held steady is more trustworthy.

Confidence reflects how trustworthy the forecast is, it doesn't change the score.

Worth a short session
BEST 07:00–11:00 (4h)
Mostly clear skies but bright moonlight limits faint objects. Some haze, so transparency is slightly reduced.
Sunset
02:15
Sunrise
11:57
Usable Hours
6/7
Moon
100%
Visible Planets
♂ Mars17° E
♄ Saturn49° SE
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Stargazing in Denver, US

Denver's Front Range location gives it excellent observing potential — dry continental air, high altitude (1,609m), and rapid access to the Colorado mountains. Bortle 6–7 in the city drops to Bortle 3–4 within an hour heading into the Rockies. Pawnee National Grassland (90 minutes north-east) is a popular dark-sky site on the plains. Winter nights are cold but often brilliantly clear, and Denver's altitude improves seeing and reduces atmospheric absorption.

Denver, US Stargazing FAQ

Is Denver good for stargazing?
Denver's high altitude (1,609m), dry continental air, and rapid access to the Rocky Mountains make it one of the better-positioned US cities for astronomy. The altitude alone improves seeing and reduces atmospheric absorption.
Where is the best dark sky near Denver?
Pawnee National Grassland (90 minutes north-east) is a popular dark-sky site on the plains. Heading west into the Rockies reaches Bortle 3-4 within an hour. Rocky Mountain National Park is another excellent option.
When is the best time to stargaze in Denver?
Winter nights are often brilliantly clear, though cold. Summer brings afternoon thunderstorms that typically clear by late evening. Autumn offers the best balance of clear skies and comfortable temperatures.