How To See Shooting Stars Over Long Island Tonight

LONG ISLAND, NY — Astronomy lovers will get the chance to see the Geminid meteor shower, which peaks Sunday night and early Monday.

On Long Island, the New York Office of Parks, Recreation and Historic Preservation announced that several local state parks will remain open during the shower overnight Sunday. Peak viewing times are predawn on Monday.

Skies over Long Island are expected to be partly cloudy overnight. The best chance to see the "shooting stars" will be around 2 a.m., according to EarthSky, which recommends giving yourself at least an hour of observing time as it takes 20 minutes for your eyes to adapt to the dark.

"The Geminids produce a good number of meteors most years, but they're made even better this year as the shower's peak coincides with a nearly new moon," NASA says.

Long Islanders can enjoy the celestial show at the following parks:

• Jones Beach State Park – Field 6
• Gov. Alfred E. Smith/Sunken Meadow State Park - Field 3
• Montauk Point State Park - Upper Parking Lot
• Robert Moses State Park- Field 2

There will be no charge and the normal star gazing permit will not be required. Guests must remain in the parking lot near their cars. Visitors must also follow social distancing guidelines and wear a mask when they cannot social distance.

Officials suggest that attendees dress appropriately for the weather and bring a chair that reclines. Binoculars will not be necessary.