Residents will have a chance to watch one of the year's most anticipated celestial events from Jones Beach State Park next month, as the New York State Office of Parks, Recreation and Historic Preservation keeps several Long Island parks open overnight for viewing the Perseids meteor shower.
The viewing event is scheduled for the night of Wednesday, Aug. 12, continuing into the predawn hours of Thursday, Aug. 13. At Jones Beach, visitors should head to the West End 2 west parking lot, which will remain open specifically for the event. Jones Beach's open beachfront setting has long made it a popular destination for stargazers and astronomy enthusiasts.
There will be no admission fee, and the state's usual stargazing permit requirement will be waived for the evening. Visitors are asked to remain near their vehicles while watching the meteor shower.
The Perseids, one of the brightest and most active annual meteor showers, are expected to produce numerous meteors streaking across the night sky. The event occurs each August as Earth passes through debris left behind by Comet Swift-Tuttle.
State Parks officials recommend arriving prepared for a comfortable evening outdoors by dressing for cooler nighttime temperatures, bringing insect repellent and using a reclining lawn chair for the best viewing experience. Binoculars are not necessary, as the meteors are best seen with the naked eye. Observers are encouraged to look toward the northeastern sky with expansive, unobstructed views of the meteor shower.
Jones Beach is one of six Long Island state parks participating in the overnight viewing program. Other participating parks include Sunken Meadow State Park in Kings Park, Montauk Point State Park, Wildwood State Park in Wading River, Orient Beach State Park and Hallock State Park Preserve in Riverhead.
