Lake City is well suited for great stargazing opportunities. On a clear night, one can marvel at the moon, planets, constellations, and other spectacular phenomena of our universe.  Certainly, a good set of binoculars or telescope will enhance your “up close” viewing.  

However, one of the best astronomy activities in Lake City is absolutely free and requires nothing more than patience, the naked eye, and mostly clear sky conditions. The activity is watching for meteors.  Although they last only seconds, meteors are always fun to watch as they streak across the sky.  And, there are times a fireball (a very large meteor) may flash above.     

Here’s a list  of meteor showers for 2011. Unfortunately, when there is a full moon, it lessens the chance of seeing meteors. Regardless, get out the lawn chairs, blankets, and hot chocolate and enjoy time out under the Lake City night sky!

Meteor Shower Calendar

Date         Name of Meteor Shower Comments

Jan 3 Quadrantids                 Great viewing because of new moon

April 21 Lyrids                         Best viewing will be before midnight

May 5 Eta Aquarids                 Once moon sets, good viewing for rest of nite

July 29 Delta Aquarids                 Moon won’t be a factor 

Aug 13 Perseids                         Best meteor shower of year; unfortunately, a full moon will  hamper viewing

Oct 21 Orionids                         Should be good viewing before midnight

Nov 17 Leonids                         Should be good viewing before midnight

Dec 13 Geminids                         The Geminids can be one of the best to watch

The best conditions for seeing meteors are in a dark place in the backyard, in the mountains at a campsite, or up at Windy Point overlook.

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