The University of Illinois Springfield Astronomy-Physics Program, Lincoln Memorial Garden and the Sangamon Astronomical Society will host a special Star Party to view the annual Perseid meteor shower. The event will feature meteor viewing, tours of the night sky, views through small telescopes and answering questions.
People attending the event at Lincoln Memorial Garden should park in the spaces just off E. Lake Shore Drive. Observing will be done in Cawley Meadow across the street from the nature center. The event is outdoors, so attendees are encouraged to wear bug repellant, dress appropriately for the weather and bring lawn chairs or blankets to sit on.
The meteor viewing may be cancelled for cloudy weather. The status of the event and cancellation due to weather will be announced before 7pm.
The information about the weather (and cancellation if needed) can be found four places:
1) The UISObservatory Twitter feed.
2) Prof. Martin's Instagram account.
3) The Lincoln Memorial Garden Facebook page.
4) Phone message: 217-206-8342
For more information on UIS Star Parties see the link for Summer Star Parties, contact John Martin, at 217-206-8342 or jmart5@uis.edu.