Lighthouse reaches for stars

THE most spectacular meteor shower of the year can be viewed from the dramatic vantage point of the grounds of Hook Lighthouse this year at a star gazing evening on Saturday, August 11.

The Perseids Meteor Showers take place every August as the Earth bisects the tail of comets which are also orbiting the sun and at Hook Lighthouse spectacular views of the constellations and the night skies are promised.

The Lighthouse Visitor Centre will operate a free park and ride service and the centre will remain open extra late to offer the event for free to visitors. Joining the team at Hook Lighthouse to guide the event is special guest astronomer from Big Bear Planetariums, Carl O’Beirnes. Carl will be on hand to open the evening advising visitors on what to look out for and how to identify the constellations in the night sky.

He will also offer visitors the opportunity to view the planets and deep sky objects visible during the meteor shower via telescopes and share details on how to photograph the night sky and the Milky Way galaxy.

Carl advises that visitors bring their telescopes and cameras if they wish however no equipment at all is required for those who wish to relax and enjoy the best movie that nature can offer.

Visitors are advised to dress warmly and to bring deck chairs and blankets as the temperature will drop as the night progresses.

This is a free event and those attending are invited to find a spot on the lighthouse lawns from 7 p.m. to gaze skyward for shooting stars under the intermittent ray of light from the ancient tower.

Top tips from Nasa include: ‘Dress warmly, let your eyes relax and don’t focus on any one specific part of the sky. Relaxed eyes will quickly zone in on any movement up above and you’ll be able to spot more meteors.’

The lighthouse will remain open until 11 p.m. offering hot chocolate and snacks at the café.