Park District invites visitors to spend night at Observatory Park for Perseid Meteor Shower

Viewing nocturnal insects also on the itinerary

Each August, Geauga Park District’s Observatory Park becomes a hub for wishing upon shooting stars — 60 to 80 per hour — and studying night-flying insects during its “Moths & Meteors Overnight Event.”

This year, that night is Aug. 11, from 9 p.m. until 6 the next morning.

New this year: Registration is required to keep the crowds manageable, according to a news release. Geauga County residents already can reserve their spots, and registration opens for out-of-county residents on Aug. 1.

Visitors may pitch a tent anywhere on the grass to stay the night for the Perseid Meteor Shower. Park telescopes will be available for viewing non-meteors if the weather is clear, and a naturalist will be on hand from sunset to sunrise as your informal guide, the release stated.

“The best meteor viewing in clear weather should be 1 to 3 a.m., but whatever the weather, you’ll enjoy interacting with moths and other nocturnal insects attracted to our black-light and mercury vapor lamps, helping to sample and survey onsite wildlife,” the release stated. “Overnighters will be welcome to check the light stations anytime all night long. We suggest you dress warmly and pack bug spray and something warm to drink.”

Tents may be set up any time after 4 p.m. and removed by 9 a.m. No campers, trailers or generators will be permitted, and pets must be kept on leash. Inclement weather will cancel the event.

Observatory Park is located at 10610 Clay St. in Montville Township. Learn more at geaugaparkdistrict.org.