Focus Night: Perseids

Step out around midnight in early August and you’ll likely see a sky of “falling stars.” This summer delight is part of the Perseids, our best known meteor shower. But what causes it, and why does it occur at the same time each year? Even more intriguing, what prompted its source comet to shift from an expected collision course with Earth? Come learn about the friendly forces in our solar system and how they still give us brilliant fireworks every August, albeit from a safer distance.

This Focus Night is intended to prepare you for a Perseids “peak” experience. Unlike planets that can hang around for months, a meteor shower is only visible over a short period of time. You will learn about different kinds of showers, why most are best viewed after midnight, and how to understand what you’re seeing. You’ll also discover factors that influence meteor counts and how to optimize your viewing as the densest Perseid activity approaches over the following week.

Please note: The peak of the meteor shower will take place after midnight on August 12th and 13th, so this event is designed to prepare and excite you for what you'll see later in the week. While we won’t observe the meteors live during the program, you’ll leave with everything you need to appreciate the event with a much richer understanding of this spectacular celestial event. Sales are limited to 40 guests so we can provide a more personal experience. The presentation begins at event start time, so please allow generous time to arrive and park.