Perseid Meteor Shower 2019: How And When To See It On Long Island

The Perseid meteor shower will peak Monday night into the early morning hours Tuesday and Long Islanders can catch it at four state parks that will remain open during the peak.

The Perseids, which began July 17 and last through Aug. 24, will likely produce about 10-15 visible meteors per hour because the moon will be very close to full during the peak.

“Perseids are not only numerous, they are beautiful. Most of the meteors leave a glittering trail as they pass,” AccuWeather Astronomy Blogger Dave Samuhel says. “They are multi-colored and many are bright."

In years without moonlight, the Perseids are visible at much higher rates, and in outburst years, such as 2016, they can fly at a rate of 150-200 meteors an hour.

"Unfortunately, the moon will be very close to full on the night of the peak, which will wash out the fainter Perseids," NASA meteor expert Bill Cooke told Space.com.

The Perseids are best seen between about 2 a.m. and dawn, NASA says.

Now the big question for those on Long Island hoping to catch the show: will the weather cooperate? The forecast for early Tuesday isn't great. There's a 20 percent chance of rain and clouds could it make it difficult to spot meteors.

The following parks will stay open Monday night through the peak viewing times early Tuesday:

• Jones Beach State Park - West End II
• Gov. Alfred E. Smith/Sunken Meadow State Park - Field 3
• Montauk Point State Park - Upper Parking Lot
• Wildwood State Park – Main Parking Lot

There will be no charge and the normal stargazing permit will not be required. However, visitors must stay near their cars.

Park officials suggest that visitors dress appropriately, bring bug spray, and a chair that reclines. Binoculars are not necessary. Look toward the northeast to enjoy the celestial show.

A pro tip from NASA: Remember to let your eyes become adjusted to the dark (it takes about 30 minutes) – you’ll see more meteors that way. Try to stay off of your phone too, as looking at devices with bright screens will negatively affect your night vision and hence reduce the number of meteors you see.

— With reporting by Patch National Editor Beth Dalbey