One of the largest meteor showers of the year is putting on a show over the next few nights, and an event in Connecticut is giving stargazers a chance to take it in. Friends of Pachaug Forest is hosting a free scientific campout at Pachaug State Forest in Voluntown, offering people a dark and safe place to watch the Perseid meteor shower.
Event Details
The forest’s size and rural location make it an ideal spot for viewing the Perseids. Friends of Pachaug Forest partnered with the Connecticut Department of Energy and Environmental Protection and The Last Green Valley to organize the event.
For the best view of the night sky, stargazers should find a large, rural area away from city light pollution. But because many parks close after sunset, finding a safe place to watch a meteor shower can be a challenge, unless you camp out. Pachaug State Forest is a great place for people to camp. Those who are new to camping and don’t own a tent can even have one provided for them.
The event creates a welcoming atmosphere where experienced campers and first-timers can come together. The event is completely free, but participants should sign up in advance through Friends of Pachaug Forest. Those attending could get the chance to see up to 100 meteors per hour.
For people hoping to catch the meteor shower on their own, look toward the northeast between 10 p.m. and 4 a.m. each night through Aug. 24.
Original reporting: NBC Connecticut — read the source article.
