Best Places For Stargazing In Detroit
The Perseids meteor shower is a yearly shower that occurs in early August, with the peak falling on August 10 through the 13, 2013. This phenomenon features up to 60 meteors an hour shooting through the night sky that are visible without a telescope. Experience the wonderment of the Perseids meteor shower by visiting a park or observatory for an optimal view of this yearly event. Some parks and organizations even host stargazing parties while other parks and observatories hold informal gatherings. And don't forget to wish on each "shooting star" as it travels across the sky.
Meteor Fest
Wolcott Mill Metropark
20505 29 Mile Road
Ray, MI 48096
(586) 749-5997
www.metroparks.com
Date: Aug. 10, 2013
Hosted by the Warren Astronomical Society, Meteor Fest is an open house that pairs the knowledge of members with observations in the night sky. This event features stargazing walks, a constellation station and crafts. An added bonus is the special telescopes that allow safe viewing of the sun, please ask for assistance if interested. Volunteers generally stay until the skies become cloudy or the crowd thins out, but usually viewing ends by midnight. Please bring a red light flashlight and please do not arrive after dark.
39221 Woodward Ave.
Bloomfield Hills, MI 48303
(248) 645-3200
science.cranbrook.edu
With three new telescopes and a new dome, Cranbrook Institute of Science is an amazing location to view the meteor shower. The observatory uses cutting-edge technology to provide stargazers with unparalleled views of the night sky. Recent renovations have included upgrades to the planetarium, a new dome and an expansion of the viewing area. Please note that the observatory will not be open in inclement weather, so please call ahead to confirm.
Kensington Metropark Nature Center
2240 W. Buno Road
Milford, MI 48380
(810) 227-8910
metroparks.com
Open areas located within Kensington Metropark create the perfect place for viewing the meteor shower. Bring a telescope and gaze into the night sky to witness this spectacular phenomenon. Arrive during the day to experience the array of activities the park offers including golfing, a farm, bike trails and swimming or boating at the beach. The nature center holds stargazing events on select dates throughout the year, including an "Astronomy on the Beach" event, hosted by local astronomy clubs. Please note there are no formal hosted events for the Perseids shower.
Kalamazoo Nature Center
7000 N. Westnedge Ave.
Kalamazoo, MI 49009
(269) 381-1574
kasonline.org
Date: Aug. 10, 2013
Hosted by the Kalamazoo Astronomical Society, this stargazing event takes place on the grounds of the Kalamazoo Nature Center. Telescopes will be located throughout the premises and are available in a variety of different sizes and styles. The observatory will be open and the 12" telescope will be open for use. Members are gracious and will assist the public with help if a telescope is brought from home. This group hosts both the public viewing session and a special Perseids Potluck Picnic for members. Please arrive as soon as gates open and with a flashlight outfitted with a red light.
Waterloo Recreation Area
16345 McClure Road
Chelsea, MI 48118
(734) 475-8307
michigandnr.com
Make stargazing an event to remember and settle down and watch the night sky from Waterloo Recreation Area, the largest park in the lower peninsula. Camp out under the stars and watch as the meteors zip through the sky. This expansive park, which features 20,500 acres of wilderness to explore, has a never-ending list of things see and do including horseback riding, swimming and fishing. Pack a midnight snack to accompany stargazing and choose a spot that will be unobstructed by trees, the waterfront would be an amazing place to view this magical meteor show.
After receiving a BA in Photography from Savannah College of Art & Design, Nicole Wrona began working with a diverse range of musicians. In addition, she is a freelance writer for numerous publications. Her work can be found at www.metalleaves.com and Examiner.com.
