Special Event

Event

Perseid Meteor Party

El Malpais National Monument

Fee:

Free.

Location:

The El Calderon trailhead parking area is located about 20 miles south of Grants, NM on NM 53.

Dates & Times

Date:

Friday, August 12, 2022

Time:

8:30 PM

Duration:

1 hour and 30 minutes

Telescope viewing will be available after the evening bat outflight program, which will end at approximately 8:30 pm. Meteors will become increasingly visible after 8:00 pm as the radiant of the meteor shower rises above the horizon. The full moon rising at 8:56 pm may impact visibility. Park ranger will leave at approximately 10:00 pm, but participants are welcome to stay later. Overnight camping is NOT allowed at the El Calderon trailhead.


Description

Join El Malpais National Monument park rangers at the El Calderon Trailhead to watch the Perseid meteor shower. The Perseids one of the brighter meteor showers that occur every year between July 17 and August 24 and tend to peak around August 9-13. Telescopes will be available to spot any interesting celestial objects visible this evening, but you don't need a telescope to enjoy the Perseids. Bring chairs or blankets to enjoy the meteor shower more comfortably.

This year's Perseid meteor shower may be impacted by the full moon which will rise at 8:56 near the radiant of the meteor shower. Weather may also impact this event as August is monsoon season. 

This event will occur after the Friday evening Bat Outflight Program. Participants are more than welcome to enjoy the bat outflight before returning to the trailhead for the Perseids.

Reservation or Registration: No