In recent news, there was talk that the famous Northern Lights would be visible in Maryland skies. Unfortunately, that’s not the case according to the Baltimore Banner. But don’t let that stop your budding astronomer from learning about stars, planets, and meteors. All you have to do is visit one one of many local planetariums or even just plan an outside star party during peak times of annual meteor showers.
Whether your family loves to gaze at the stars to learn about planets, stars and solar systems or merely enjoys staring at a star-studded summer sky from a blanket in the backyard, late July and into August as well as October, is a great time to get out and enjoy the stars—both outdoors and inside.
If you’re an outdoor family you should have no trouble finding an open space with dark sky for a quality viewing experience—think state or local parks, Bay beaches, campgrounds and nature centers. If you’re not comfortable enough with your star knowledge, there are several astronomy clubs around the state that host star parties and other events for local enthusiasts and general public.
If you prefer a nice air-conditioned astronomy lesson, you can head to nearby local planetariums. With fun activities and learning programs, a planetarium is a great way to get your child interested in our solar system. Read on for tips on how and where to enjoy our skies.
Outdoor Stargazing
While going to a planetarium is a great experience, you can have just as much fun gazing at the stars outside. For a great stargazing spot, head to a big open area, one where you’re easily able to see a large amount of the sky—the farther away from light pollution, the better. You’ll want it to be as dark as possible, with no streetlights, buildings, or ambient light from a nearby city. If you’re ready to head outside, but want some in-the-know astronomers to go along with, look for a local astronomy club. There are quite a few in Maryland, including the Howard Astronomical League (howardastro.org), which holds regularly scheduled public and members-only star parties at Alpha Ridge Park in Marriottsville. The Astronomical Society of Greenbelt (greenbeltastro.org) holds monthly meetings at the H.B. Owens Science Center and regular star parties. For a list of clubs near you, visit astroleague.org.
Upcoming Meteor Showers
Peak Time: August 13
Perseids Meteor Shower
This is easily one of the best meteor showers of the year, and will have no moon to contend with, giving you a great chance to see lots of fire in the sky. https://www.space.com/32868-perseid-meteor-shower-guide.html
Peak Time: Late July
Southern Delta Aquariids
Best seen from the Southern Hemisphere, you can still catch a glimpse of some falling meteors during late July. https://earthsky.org/astronomy-essentials/everything-you-need-to-know-delta-aquarid-meteor-shower/
Peak Time: Early Evening October 8 and Early Morning October 9
Draconids Meteor Shower
This is a good one to watch with little kids, as the showers peak in the early in the evening, rather than in the wee morning hours. https://earthsky.org/astronomy-essentials/everything-you-need-to-know-draconid-meteor-shower/
Planetariums
Davis Planetarium
Explore the sky on a guided tour through space under the star theater dome. Showing thousands of stars and planets, Davis Planetarium has dozens of shows to teach your child about the solar system.
Maryland Science Center
601 Light Street, Baltimore
410-685-2370; mdsci.org
Howard B. Owens Science Center
The largest planetarium dome in Maryland can project 8,000 on the dome from the comfort of 170 reclining upholstered seats. The Planetarium is operated by Prince George’s County Public Schools and offers educational programs.
pgcps.org/howardbowens
NatureSphere at Robinson Nature Center
Full-dome theater and planetarium showing the night sky or movies.
$5 adults; $3 children. Planetarium is $3 extra.
6692 Cedar Lane, Columbia, MD 21044
robinsonfoundation.org
Ausherman Planetarium/Natelli Observatory
The ESSL is a part of the Frederick County Public School system. Our primary purpose is to work with FCPS school groups. With a small dedicated staff, we are able to offer limited evening, summer and public events. All shows will take place in the Ausherman Planetarium and typically include a “Star Hike.” Viewing animals and exhibits are included with your ticket purchase. The Natelli Observatory, with its 14″ Meade telescope, will be open during most planetarium shows, weather permitting, to view choice celestial objects.
210 Madison St., Frederick
education.fcps.org/essl/general-information
William Brish Planetarium
*We are closed for the summer and will reopen for evening public shows on Tuesday, September 12 with shows at 5:30 pm and 7:00 pm.
820 Commonwealth Ave, Hagerstown
301-766-2898; wbplanetarium.weebly.comweebly.comweebly.com
Watson-King Planetarium
Towson University, Towson
The Physics, Astronomy and Geosciences Department offers planetarium shows on the third Friday of every month throughout the academic year. These shows are open to the public and usually include a tour of the night sky and discussion of topics in astronomy.
towson.edu/fcsm/centers/planetarium.html
Check out the book Wonders of the Night Sky by Raman Prinja for a close-up on:
- Stargazing and constellations
- Planets and moons
- Meteors and asteroids
- Natural and man-made marvels