Nantucket Maria Mitchell Association Announces Pop Up Celestial Stakeout Program for Annual Perseids Meteor Shower

August 7, 2024

NANTUCKET, MA – The Maria Mitchell Association (MMA) announces an upcoming pop-up “Celestial Stakeout” night program for the annual Perseids Meteor Shower. A meteor is a space rock that enters Earth’s atmosphere, commonly referred to as a “shooting star.” A meteor shower is when Earth encounters many meteoroids at once. Join MMA professional astronomers and staff for a very special stargazing event. On the night of Sunday, August 11th, from 11:00pm to 12:30am, we will peer into the skies to observe the Perseids Meteor Shower, which peaks annually, in mid-August. The Perseids is often a spectacular celestial show of bright and swift meteors. It is possible to view between 50-100 meteors per hour. Perseids are also known for their fireballs; larger explosions of light and color that can persist longer than an average meteor streak. The Celestial Stakeout will meet at Surfside Beach, 169 Surfside Road. This event is free to all and pre-registration is required as space is limited. 


Registration link: https://112458a.blackbaudhosting.com/112458a/Celestial-Stakeout---Perseids-Meteor-Shower-11Aug2024 


The Maria Mitchell Association is a private non-profit organization. Founded in 1902, the MMA works to preserve the legacy of Nantucket native astronomer, naturalist, librarian, and educator, Maria Mitchell. The Maria Mitchell Association operates two observatories, a natural science museum, an aquarium, a research center, and preserves the historic birthplace of Maria Mitchell. A wide variety of science and history-related programming is offered throughout the year for people of all ages.




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For Immediate Release

August 7, 2024

Contact: Jónelle Gurley

programs@mariamitchell.org

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