Image: AAS
As the days around August 12 approach again, astronomers in particular are in for an exciting time. For the chairman of the Astronomical Working Group Salzkammergut (AAS), Erwin Filimon, the sight of the Perseids is “still something special”.
Because the night sky is clear and the moon phase seems to be “ideal”, the anticipation within the AAS is even “a little bit bigger” this year. Together with other members of the association, a scientific program consisting of brightness measurements and recordings with special cameras is on the agenda.
The 63-year-old has a few tips for enjoying the meteor shower without astronomical equipment. “You don’t necessarily have to drive up a mountain. It’s important that there are no light sources such as street lamps or car headlights in the area,” says Filimon. He therefore recommends “making yourself comfortable on the terrace or in the garden”. For people who live in big cities, “driving a few kilometers out into the country” would be enough.
“Catch” shooting stars
According to the astronomer, patience will also be required on the Perseid nights: “Most shooting stars only appear in the early hours of the morning, around two to three in the morning. Until then, it is possible that not a single one will be visible in the sky for a few minutes.”
According to Filimon, there are also a few things for amateur photographers to consider: “Of course, it works best with a single-lens reflex camera with a tripod.” The continuous exposure setting should be selected for this. Smartphones with a high-quality camera function would now also deliver good results. It doesn’t matter in which direction the camera is aligned. The shooting stars can appear anywhere in the sky.
Source: Nachrichten
