UIS, in partnership with Lincoln Memorial Garden and the Sangamon Astronomical Society, will co-host a star party from 8:30 to 10 p.m. Wednesday, August 12, at Lincoln Memorial Garden, 2301 E. Lake Shore Drive in Springfield.

The main attraction for this night is the peak of the Perseid Meteor Shower.  The Perseid meteor shower, one of the most anticipated astronomical events of the year, occurs each August when Earth passes through the debris trail left by Comet Swift-Tuttle. The Perseid meteor shower is known for producing bright fireballs, which are larger explosions of light and color that last longer than an average meteor streak. Typically, observers in a dark sky location can see three to five meteors per hour. However, during the peak, this number can increase to as many as 60 meteors per hour.

Telescopes will also be set up in Cawley Meadow, offering views of  celestial objects, including star clusters and nebulae. Constellation tours will also be provided.

Guests should park in the designated spaces off E. Lake Shore Drive. The viewing area is located across the street from the nature center. Attendees are encouraged to bring bug repellent, weather-appropriate clothing and lawn chairs or blankets. The event may be canceled if the sky is cloudy. For updates, call 217-206-8342 after 7 p.m. May 3, or check the Lincoln Memorial Garden Facebook page, @UISObservatory on X or UISObservatory.bky.social on BlueSky.