Perseid Meteor Shower / Summer Star Party

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When: Friday, August 11 from 9:00 p.m. to 11:30 p.m.
Where: Frosty Drew Campus in Ninigret Park
Why: To Celebrate Charlestown’s Beautiful Star-Filled Skies And See Some Passing Meteors
Who: Charlestown RI Dark Sky Advocates in Cooperation with Frosty Drew Observatory & Science Center

This month’s stargazing party has been rescheduled to Friday August 11th due to the weather yet again. The setup will be across the road from Frosty Drew Observatory & Sky Theatre

The annual Perseid meteor shower has begun and will peak Saturday, August 12 until the early hours of Sunday, August 13.

Forbes has named Charlestown’s Frosty Drew Observatory as one of the best places in North America to see the Perseid meteor shower!

Charlestown has the darkest skies along the coast between New York and Boston. In order to see the Perseids, you need to be away from light pollution and under a dark sky and we are so fortunate in Charlestown to still have dark, star filled skies.

All are welcome at this “Meteor Party” to enjoy our spectacular night sky in peaceful surroundings. Put a blanket or chair out under our beautiful sky, and wait for nature’s fireworks in the form of fireflies and meteors accompanied by the nighttime sounds that our protected wildlife may have to offer.

“The Dark Sky Advocates” ask that those attending follow guidelines for the event so that all will have a fun time:

  • Read and follow the rules for Visiting Frosty Drew Observatory and Science Center
  • Use of a RED LIGHT for seeing is highly encouraged as use of white light is disturbing to other observers as well as observing equipment and cameras.
  • Alcohol and drugs are prohibited while visiting.
  • While you may think the world of your furry friends, please leave your dogs at home.
  • Ninigret Park is surrounded by wildlife and that includes mosquitoes so be sure to dress accordingly and take proper precautions.

Registration is not required, but if you have a Facebook account, you can signup for this event at https://www.facebook.com/events/3468946826707435/

If you’re interested in bringing your own telescope to set up, please send Brian Nieves a note through messenger to make arrangements.

Banner photograph of Charlestown’s dark sky by Brian Nieves.
Visit Our “Charlestown Dark Sky” Page For More On The Light Pollution Issue