Viewing party for the Perseid meteor shower

The University of Illinois Springfield Astronomy-Physics Program, Lincoln Memorial Garden and the Sangamon Astronomical Society will host a special star party to view the annual Perseid meteor shower.

The Perseid meteor shower, one of the most anticipated astronomical events of the year, occurs each August when Earth passes through the debris trail left by Comet Swift-Tuttle. The 2024 shower is expected to peak between Aug. 12 and 13, offering a spectacular display of meteors.

The Perseid meteor shower is known for producing bright fireballs, which are larger explosions of light and color that last longer than an average meteor streak. Typically, observers in a dark sky location can see three to five meteors per hour. However, during the peak, this number can increase to as many as 60 meteors per hour.

People attending the event at Lincoln Memorial Garden should park in the spaces just off E. Lake Shore Drive. The viewing will take place in Cawley Meadow, located across the street from the nature center. As this is an outdoor event, participants should come prepared with bug repellent, weather-appropriate clothing and lawn chairs or blankets for seating.

The meteor viewing may be canceled if the weather is cloudy. For real-time updates, including weather-related cancellations, call 217-206-8342 after 7 p.m. on Aug. 12. Updates will also be posted on the Lincoln Memorial Garden Facebook page and @UISObservatory on X.