Focus Night: Perseids Meteor Shower

Step out around midnight in early August and you’ll likely see a sky of “falling stars.” This summer delight is part of the Perseids, our best known meteor shower. But what causes it, and why does it occur at the same time each year? Even more intriguing, what prompted its source body to shift from an expected collision course with Earth? Come learn about the friendly forces in our solar system and how they still give us brilliant fireworks every August, albeit from a safer distance.

This Focus Night is intended to prepare you for a Perseids “peak” experience. Unlike planets that can hang around for months, a meteor shower is only visible over a short period of time. You will learn about different kinds of showers, why most are best viewed after midnight, and how to understand what you’re seeing. You’ll also discover factors that influence meteor counts and how to optimize your viewing as the densest Perseid activity approaches over the following week.

Plan to be in the classroom by 8:15 PM to ensure you have a seat. Program begins promptly at 8:30. Sales are limited to 40 guests so we can provide a more personal experience. Allow generous time to arrive and park.

Please visit https://rfo.simpletix.com for important information and to buy tickets. You MUST have a ticket to attend this event; tickets will not be sold at the door. Tickets are $60 per adult, $50 for seniors (62+) and students, and $45 for members. Cost includes the Sugarloaf Ridge State Park parking fee. Please note that tickets are non-refundable and cannot be used for future events.

RFO is operated by the Valley of the Moon Observatory Association, a 501(3)(c) nonprofit organization. All proceeds go toward maintaining this beloved Sonoma County institution.