UIS,
in partnership with Lincoln Memorial Garden and the Sangamon
Astronomical Society, will co-host a star party from 8:30 to 10 p.m.
Wednesday, August 12, at Lincoln Memorial Garden, 2301 E. Lake Shore
Drive in Springfield.
The
main attraction for this night is the peak of the 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 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.
Telescopes
will also be set up in Cawley Meadow, offering views of celestial
objects, including star clusters and nebulae. Constellation tours will
also be provided.
Guests
should park in the designated spaces off E. Lake Shore Drive. The
viewing area is located across the street from the nature center.
Attendees are encouraged to bring bug repellent, weather-appropriate
clothing and lawn chairs or blankets. The event may be canceled if the
sky is cloudy. For updates, call 217-206-8342 after 7 p.m. August 12, or
check the Lincoln Memorial Garden Facebook page, @UISObservatory on X
or UISObservatory.bky.social on BlueSky.