Witness the spectacle of the Perseid meteor shower from an inactive volcano in Turkey in August 2024
Witness the spectacle of the Perseid meteor shower from an inactive volcano in Turkey in August 2024
If you’re looking for a truly unforgettable experience, consider joining the Turkish Perseids observing party on Mount Erciyes in August 2024. This dormant volcano offers stunning views of the night sky, making it the perfect place to witness one of the year’s most spectacular meteor showers.
What to expect
The Perseid meteor shower occurs every year in mid-August, when the Earth passes through the debris trail left behind by Comet Swift-Tuttle. As these tiny particles enter the Earth’s atmosphere, they burn up, creating streaks of light in the sky. At its peak, the Perseid meteor shower can produce up to 100 meteors per hour.
The Turkish Perseids observing party is a unique opportunity to experience this celestial event in a truly magical setting. Mount Erciyes is located in central Turkey, about 200 kilometers from the city of Kayseri. The volcano has a summit elevation of 3,917 meters, offering stunning panoramic views of the surrounding countryside.
On the night of the Perseid meteor shower, participants will gather at the summit of Mount Erciyes to watch the show. Astronomers will be on hand to answer questions and provide information about the meteor shower. Participants will also have the opportunity to use telescopes to get a closer look at the meteors and other celestial objects.
How to get there
The nearest airport to Mount Erciyes is Kayseri Erkilet International Airport (ASR). There are direct flights to Kayseri from several major European cities, as well as from Istanbul. Once you arrive in Kayseri, you can take a taxi or bus to the town of Erciyes, which is located at the base of the volcano.
From Erciyes, you can take a cable car to the summit of Mount Erciyes. The cable car ride takes about 20 minutes and offers stunning views of the surrounding countryside.
Accommodations
There are a number of hotels and guesthouses located in the town of Erciyes. You can also camp on the summit of Mount Erciyes, but be sure to obtain a permit from the Erciyes Ski Resort.
What to bring
Be sure to bring warm clothes, as it can get cold on the summit of Mount Erciyes, even in the summer. You should also bring a sleeping bag and camping gear if you plan on camping. Other essential items include sunscreen, insect repellent, and a flashlight.
Tips for viewing the Perseid meteor shower
- Find a dark location away from city lights.
- Lie down on your back and let your eyes adjust to the darkness.
- Be patient. It may take some time to start seeing meteors.
- If you’re using a telescope, focus it on a region of the sky where you’re likely to see meteors.
The Turkish Perseids observing party is a unique opportunity to experience one of the year’s most spectacular meteor showers in a truly magical setting. If you’re looking for an unforgettable experience, be sure to consider joining this event in August 2024.
