Minnesota to Host Statewide Star Party for Perseid Meteor Shower

Jun 29, 2023

Residents of Minnesota are gearing up for the annual Statewide Star Party, where they will gather to observe the Perseid meteor shower. The star party has been growing in popularity in recent years, with events taking place at various locations across the state. This year, the Perseids are expected to be especially visible, making the star party an even bigger draw.

The star parties are designed to engage and educate beginner skywatchers, with experienced astronomers on hand to provide guidance. In addition to sky watching, many events feature daytime presentations, discussions on astronomy books and films, and telescopes and binoculars for after-sunset viewing.

The Statewide Star Party is coordinated by the Bell Museum, and this year’s theme is “Astronomy for All.” The museum aims to make the wonders of the night sky accessible to people of all ages, abilities, and cultural backgrounds. Host facilities have been provided with engagement kits that include resources for learning about Ojibwe and Dakota constellations.

The Perseid meteor shower, which occurs annually from mid-July to late August, is caused by debris left behind by Comet Swift-Tuttle. This year, the shower will peak on the night of August 12-13. Although moonlight may slightly reduce visibility, the Perseids are still expected to be impressive, with an average of 60 to 80 meteors per hour.

In addition to enjoying the meteor shower, the star party events aim to raise awareness about light pollution and the importance of preserving dark skies. The star party coincides with the certification of Voyageurs National Park and the Boundary Waters Canoe Area Wilderness as International Dark Sky Parks.

All star party events are free and open to the public, with some requiring pre-registration or entry fees. The Bell Museum encourages people across Minnesota to take part in sky watching and experience the sense of wonder that comes from observing the night sky.

For those interested in attending a star party, a list of upcoming events and locations can be found on the Bell Museum’s website.