Wish upon a meteor shower; just take a nap first
August 11, 2008
St. Charles County
Rest up this afternoon in preparation for the Perseids Meteor Shower. The best time for viewing is after 2:00 a.m. Tuesday until dawn when Comet Swift-Tuttle’s debris will collide with the Earth’s upper atmosphere and produce about 110 meteor streaks per hour.
The meteors will appear to fall from the constellation Perseus. That is why this meteor shower is named Perseids. Though moonlight may prevent some meteors from being visible, but the bright ones will still shine brightly for us.
The weather report suggests partly cloudy skies (that means partly clear skies!) and a temperature in the 60’s. How lovely to need a jacket or sweater while watching the meteor display.
It’s dark at Broemmelsiek
The astronomy viewing area at Broemmelsiek Park is open, even during the wee hours of the morning. The astronomy viewing area offers ten concrete pad viewing stations equipped with electrical service. Use of the site is on a first-come, first-served basis.
Doug Bolnick, of the St. Charles County Parks Department, said that there will not be park rangers on duty, but the St. Charles County Sheriff’s Department regularly monitors the park.
Broemmelsiek Park is located at the intersection of Schwede and Wilson Roads, off State Road DD.
Party time!
Find a dark spot, spread a blanket, spray yourself for bugs and get ready for the show. Experts say binoculars are not necessary, but a red-filtered flashlight may come in handy for reading maps and charts without ruining night vision.
And what night-sky gazing event is complete without great munchies? We suggest this simply dreamy finger foods menu:
cheese and crackers (cheese already sliced and crackers topped, ready for grabbing)
grapes
yogurt-covered nuts or raisins
coffee and/or hot cocoa, packed in insulated jugs
Remember to claim a falling star and make the wish that your boss finds compassion during what’s sure to be an inevitable morning-after slump.
Copyright 2008 Neighbors About Town