The Persied meteor shower is generally considered the most enjoyable shower of the year and 2018 puts it near the new moon meaning the skies will be darker and the meteors more apparent to the naked eye.
This year during the peak, people should see about 60-70 meteors per hour. While Persied meteors are apparent in the evening, the best viewing opportunities are after midnight when the earth travels directly into the showers path and the sun has long set over the horizon.
The meteor shower’s peak will be visible both the nights of Aug. 11-12 (Sat/Sun) and Aug. 12-13 (Sun/Mon). Some predict that the night of Aug. 12-13 will be the better show but Monday morning work comes quick to those who get little sleep. Weather may also dictate when one can get a chance to experience this heavenly fireworks show.
Visitors are welcome to utilize the observing field at Potawatomi Wildlfie Park. Those needing to leave early need to park in the main parking lot and walk to the field with your lawn chair or blanket. The observing field is closed to vehicles after dark for the safety of observers. This is due to the potentially large number of expected viewers due to the weekend peak time. The last time the peak fell on a weekend and the moon phase favorable, there were well over 100 observers and the field full.
