Get ready for a show that’s really out of this world!
The Perseid meteor shower stargazing event at the Salt Marsh Nature Center in Marine Park on Aug. 9 is open to anyone interested in seeing the light.
Led by the Urban Park Rangers, the cosmic confab is designed to introduce people of all ages to the mysteries of the solar system by watching one of the brightest meteor showers of the year from the best location possible in the city.
“We’re away from the city lights,” said Judith Velosky, a Sergeant Park Ranger at the Salt Marsh Nature Center. “We have a nice, dark area.”
The meteor shower is visible throughout August but Velosky said the viewing is scheduled for Aug. 9 because it will be exceptionally bright that day, since it is right before a full moon and the natural brightness will make shooting stars easier to spot.
Velosky said the Urban Park Rangers will talk about the Perseid meteor shower, constellations, and Greek mythology. The Rangers will also be keeping their eyes — and telescope — open to view planets.
“Mercury and Saturn are coming into view at the same time,” said Velosky.
Because weather changes can affect the meteors’ visibility, Velosky said the Urban Park Rangers can’t guarantee that everyone will see a shooting star — but the odds are good.
“There are supposedly 50 to 100 meteors per hour,” said Velosky.
Perseid meteor shower at the Salt Marsh Nature Center [E. 33rd Street and Avenue U, between Burnett and E. 34th streets in Marine Park, (718) 421–2021]. Aug. 9 at 9 pm. Free.
