Two of the Best Meteor Viewing Spots in Washington Are Near Tri-Cities
When it comes to stargazing, spring and summer are optimal times. First, because there are fewer clouds, and second, warmer temperatures make it more fun to grab a blanket, a beverage, snacks, and your significant other for a night of wide-open skies.
You can stargaze and look for shooting stars on any night in the Tri-Cities – at the very least you can follow satellites or contemplate what lies beyond the stars and how small our world is compared to the universe. However, if you want to be guaranteed to see a meteor shoot across the sky, according to the Old Farmer’s Almanac, you’ll want to market these spring and summer dates on your calendar.
The Eta Aquarids meteor shower, May 4 and 5, 2024
Halley’s Comet has a debris field that creates the meteor shower called the Eta Aquarids, and although it is best viewed from somewhere in the Southern Hemisphere, those of us in the Northern Hemisphere can still catch the vibrant action along the horizon. This year (2024) the moon will only be 16% full which will enhance your viewing experience.
The Delta Aquarids meteor shower, July, 2024
The Delta Aquarids only produce about 15 meteors an hour and with the moon at 33% they won’t appear as vibrant as on a completely unlit night. The shower begins in July and will reach its peak the last weekend of the month, July 27th through July 30th.
The Perseids meteor shower, August 11, 12, and 13
If you’re looking for lots of action (stargazing action that is), then the Perseids won’t disappoint. You can expect to see 50 or more meteors each hour and even with a moon 40% full, you’ll still get a good show. Hot August nights are the best in the Tri-Cities.
Where are the best places to view a meteor shower in Tri-Cities, Washington?
We’re lucky to have a plethora of mountains and hills around the TRI that are easily accessible for viewing stars - any dark area out of town will do but these two spots are known for being the best for stargazing near Tri-cities.
Candy Mountain in West Richland or the Horse Heaven Hills Recreational Area.