The Best Astronomical Events Coloradans Can See in 2026

Communities like Grand Junction, Montrose, Delta, Steamboat, and other towns around Western Colorado are in for an amazing show in 2026. A number of fascinating astronomical events will unfold over the skies of Colorado in 2026, and a local astronomer offered to share a few highlights and the best places from which to see them.

Colorado Astronomer Has The Inside Scoop

Colorado author/educator/astronomer Jeff Dershem of Grand Junction, author of the book Planets to Pulsars: A Citizen's Guide to the Universe, dropped by to discuss several amazing 2026 events involving comets, meteors, planets, and even an eclipse or two.

As if being a Colorado native weren't awesome enough, Jeff was part of a NASA team responsible for designing a circuit found in the nose cones of space-bound rockets. He goes into more detail in the podcast.

Events Visible From Colorado and the Best Places From Which to View

Even better, Jeff shared a little insight as to the best times and locations in Colorado from which to witness these events. If you break away from the hustle and bustle, and for that matter, the light pollution, a nearby Colorado location offers the perfect viewing of these celestial marvels.

To get the inside scoop on what promises to be an exceptional year (far better than the astro-dud that was 2025), take a listen to Waylon's podcast, dated January 6, 2026, featuring author and astronomer, not to mention trombonist-extraordinaire, Jeff Dershem. Jeff has the insight to help anyone make the most of celestial events in 2026.

Listen Below

You Probably Already Have the Proper Gear

You say you don't have a $3,000 telescope? According to Jeff, that's no problem. As blessed as we are here in Colorado, a pair of binoculars will more than suffice for most events. If you can cough up a couple of hundred bucks, an el-cheapo box store telescope will make you the most envied person on the block.

Read More: Colorado Landscapes So Beautiful They Look Fake

Read the Book by This Grand Junction Author

After listening to the podcast, you'll certainly enjoy reading Jeff's book, Planets to Pulsars: A Citizen's Guide to the Universe. It's a fun read offering tons of insight into the wonders surrounding us.