Michigan has secured the 10th spot in the U.S. for asteroid spotting potential, according to a recent study by The Action Network. The news comes as the nation recently observed International Asteroid Day on June 30, a time when many travelers seek clear skies, meteor showers, and starry nights.
The study analyzed all 50 U.S. states based on factors such as dark sky quality, elevation, fireball activity, and observatory density, ultimately ranking Michigan as a premier destination for stargazers in the Midwest.
Key highlights of Michigan’s stargazing appeal:
- Darkness Score: 0.47 - with one Bortle 1 site and 20 Bortle 2 locations, indicating exceptional night sky quality.
- Fireball Sightings: Michigan reported 25 fireball sightings in 2025, among the highest in the country.
- Observatories: With 12 observatories, several offering public programming and stargazing events, the astronomy community is vibrant and accessible.
- Scenic Backdrops: The Great Lakes shoreline enhances the stargazing experience, offering breathtaking views.
Top 10 U.S. states for asteroid spotting:
- California - 6.68% chance (+1397 odds)
- Colorado - 4.45% chance (+2147 odds)
- Oregon - 4.40% chance (+2173 odds)
- Utah - 4.21% chance (+2275 odds)
- New Mexico - 3.81% chance (+2525 odds)
- Arizona - 3.50% chance (+2757 odds)
- Nevada - 3.17% chance (+3055 odds)
- Alaska - 2.94% chance (+3301 odds)
- Idaho - 2.85% chance (+3409 odds)
- Michigan - 2.81% chance (+3455 odds)
A spokesperson for The Action Network remarked, “Michigan has become a magnetic destination for night sky lovers — it combines natural darkness, lakeside beauty, and a vibrant astronomy community. It’s a reminder that the cosmos isn’t just above us — it’s within reach if you know where to look.”
18 spots to stargaze in MI:
- Addison Oaks County Park
- Beaver Island
- Copper Harbor
- Dr. T.K. Lawless Park
- Headlands International Dark Sky Park
- Isle Royale National Park
- Lake Hudson Recreation Area
- Les Cheneaux Islands
- Manistee National Forest
- Negwegon State Park
- Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore
- Port Crescent State Park
- Rockport State Recreation Area
- Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore
- Tahquamenon Falls State Park
- Tawas Point State Park
- Thompson’s Harbor State Park
- Wilderness State Park
For space-curious travelers and families, Michigan offers a unique blend of natural beauty and celestial visibility, making it an ideal destination for astrophotography, meteor shower watching, or simply enjoying the wonders of the night sky.