* The 2017 Perseid Meteor Shower will peak August 11th and 12th
* The astronomical phenomenon occurs when Earth passes the path of Comet Swift-Tuttle
* Make sure you’re ready to see 80 meteors per hour with these essential supplies
Just a few weeks from now, the Perseid Meteor Shower will reach its peak. From August 11th to 12th, about 80 meteors per hour will streak across the sky. This annual astronomical phenomenon occurs when Earth passes through the path of Comet Swift-Tuttle and pieces of comet debris burn up as they enter Earth’s atmosphere.
Unfortunately, this year, the moon, which will be three-quarters full, will affect peak viewing. It will rise on the 12th just after midnight and just before we’re expected to see the most meteors. However, these rocks usually boast bright fireballs, so you’ll still be able to spot quite a few “falling stars” on a clear night. All you need is darkness and a comfortable area to sit or stand, but these items will make your Perseid party even more special.
1. Glow in the Dark Stars
Get excited for the meteor shower by installing some glow in the dark stars on your ceiling. Whether you have kids or you’re just a fun-loving meteor enthusiast, these decals will make you stare up at the stars (inside your house and in the sky) and wonder what’s out there. This pack comes with 200 stars and a moon coated in a brand new glow formula.
2. Meteor Shower Rain Lights
Throwing a Perseid Meteor Shower party? Add to the festivities with a strand or two of meteor shower lights. These rain drop lights feature a system in which every bulb quickly turns on and off, one by one, imitating falling meteors in the night sky. Each 11.8-inch strand includes eight tubes.
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3. The 50 Best Sights in Astronomy
While you’re waiting to see your first meteors, you’ll want to check out the rest of the night sky. Learn all about what you’re seeing with The 50 Best Sights in Astronomy by Fred Schaaf, one of the most experienced astronomical observers of the 21st Century. Inside the book, you’ll find explanations and viewing instructions for 50 of the best constellations, satellites, star clusters and more. All you need is your eyes and the night sky to see most of the astronomical sights, but even more can be seen with binoculars or a telescope.
4. Guide to the Stars
Don’t stop your astrological observation with the meteor shower. Go further with your education using a star map. The Guide to the Stars is designed to help you identify the constellations, important stars and other sky formations. It can be used anywhere in the USA, Canada and Europe and works by setting the dials to the current time and date to reveal a map of the current sky.
5. Spencer & Whitney Outdoor Blanket
As a serious viewer of the meteor shower, you’re going to be outside for a substantial amount of time, with your supplies and perhaps a glass of wine. This outdoor blanket will give you just the setting. It’s water resistant and includes carry handles for easy transportation to the beach, park or forest.
6. SkyGenius Binoculars
If you don’t want to invest in a telescope, a pair of binoculars is the next best thing for getting into astronomy. They may even be a more useful tool for meteor shower viewing as they allow you a full range of motion. These SkyGenius binoculars boast a full 10 times magnification with a 50mm lens diameter that allows for use even in low light conditions. In addition, this pair has a 367-foot field of view, which is ideal for tracking fast moving objects.
7. Deluxe XL Outdoor Club Chair
For the ultimate meteor shower luxury, get yourself a comfortable outdoor chair. With a padded seat and back, the Mac Sports Club Chair can be easily transported to your viewing area. But we’ll give you fair warning – this chair might cause you to see more sheep than falling stars.
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