D&R Greenway Land Trustwill hold its Perseid Meteor Shower Watch party on Thursday, Aug. 11 at 11:30 p.m. at St. Michaels Farm Preserve in Hopewell Township.
The Perseid Meteor Shower occurs every year in mid-July and early August when the Earth passes through the stream of debris called the “Perseid Cloud,” which consists of particles ejected by the comet Swift-Tuttle.
Volunteers from Amateur Astronomers Association will set up telescopes to view the moon, Saturn, Mars and other night sky objects and provide meteor viewing assistance.
Arrive at or before 11:30 p.m. to avoid a stream of headlights that would compromise night vision. Bring binoculars or telescope if you have; not required. Park in the gravel lot on Princeton Avenue—carpooling is highly recommended.
Rsvp@drgreenway.org, subject line “Perseids,” including your contact info so you can be reached in the event of bad weather or poor viewing conditions. Information: 609-924-4646; www.drgreenway.org.
“This fun event has become a summer tradition for us,” says D&R Greenway Vice-President Jay Watson. “St. Michaels Farm Preserve, at the edge of Hopewell Borough, is the perfect place to hold this event, with its 340 acres of beautiful fields, woods and nature trails and its important community history. One of the reasons we preserved this magnificent property was to keep it as an important place where families can enjoy nature and the outdoors. We are hoping for clear skies and a good show of meteors!”
Pack as you would for watching fireworks—lounge chair, blanket or warm clothing, water, juice, snacks, bug spray. Flashlights should have red lenses to protect night vision. If you don’t have a red lens/light, please see D&R Greenway staff who will provide these upon arrival.
