Rooftop Astronomy: May Meteors

Comet 209P/LINEAR & Camelopadalids

Memorial Day Weekend offers the chance of some celestial "fireworks" this year. While the weather forecast for the Lower Hudson Valley doesn't look very good right now, there is a chance the skies will clear enough after midnight on Saturday morning to catch the meteor shower. If not, join me on SLOOH to watch the webcast.

Meteor showers, the so called "falling stars" are always and exciting objects to observe. There is something magical as they flash into existence, streak across the sky and then vanish. Whether I see one unexpectedly or have spent hours gazing at the sky during peak chances, the appearance of one always makes my insides jump a bit. Maybe that's why people think they're good for making wishes.

What exactly are meteors? Simply put, space dust. Meteor showers are the result of the Earth traveling through the debris left behind by passing comets. It's like driving through a swarm of bugs on a summer night. As the Earth ploughs through the dust particles, they get caught in the Earth's gravity. As they encounter the resistance of the atmosphere, the friction and compression of the air heat up the particles until they glow. After a few moments, they burn up and disappear as suddenly as they appeared.

On the night of May 23-24, 2014 the Earth will pass through the trail of debris left behind by Comet 209P/LINEAR. Forecasts range from a "light drizzle" to a full out "storm." The United States and southern Canada will be facing the oncoming dust trail that night, creating the potential for several brilliant flashes across the sky, possibly 100 or more per hour. This will, of course, be affected by how dark your sky is. So if you want to observe this event, some advance planning will pay off. A forecast for clear skies is the first requirement. Then, find the darkest patch of sky you can, bring a blanket or a lawn chair and turn your gaze to the northern sky from 2-4am. Relax your eyes and be patient. The best thing is, no optics required!

Post comments if you see anything! I'd love to hear about your experiences. I will share my observations if the weather allows.