Perseid Meteor Shower Events in Negev: A Stellar Summer Experience
August is known as the peak of the Israeli summer sky-watching season, and the Negev desert draws numerous visitors eager to witness the annual Perseid meteor shower. This year, the celestial display coincides with a full moon on the nights of August 11 and 12, which could impact visibility. However, experts suggest that the nights following the peak may offer better viewing conditions. Whether visitors come with a professional guide and telescope or simply a blanket and coffee kit, here are four noteworthy events to experience during this cosmic occasion.
“Journey Among the Stars” – Arad (August 19)
The local council of Arad aims to turn the eastern desert into a center for astronomical tourism. The upcoming event, “Journey Among the Stars,” is set for Tuesday, August 19, providing an opportunity to discover that the desert is not just sand but also home to stunning skies. Participants will enjoy a guided observation using a professional telescope and an astronomical laser pointer to identify constellations and star systems, as well as learn how to chart the northern sky. This intimate experience offers two sessions: start for families at 8:00 PM and another for couples at 10:00 PM. The Arad tourism team advises attendees to wear closed shoes and bring warm clothing, as evenings can be chilly, even in August.
“Then the Perseids Arrive” – Mount Negev (August 14-21)
The largest meteor festival of the year will be hosted in Mount Negev under the theme “Cool Summer Nights.” This area is classified as a “star light reserve,” making it an ideal spot for stargazing thanks to its high elevation and favorable climate conditions. Throughout August, numerous evening events will take place, including guided stargazing, night hiking tours, and opportunities for camping. The Perseid meteor shower, which peaks annually on August 11 and 12, may be affected this year due to the full moon. Therefore, festival organizers recommend visiting between August 14 and 21 for optimal viewing. “Even if you do not see 60 meteors per hour, you will undoubtedly feel the magic of the stars,” said Ramat Negev astronomy experts.
Jeruham Star Festival – Jeruham Lake Park (August 12-14)
In Jeruham, the Perseid meteor shower has become a cherished tradition, with this being the seventh year for the region’s major star festival held at Jeruham Lake Park. For three nights, from Tuesday to Thursday, attendees can immerse themselves in an astronomical experience. The central area will feature five large telescopes of various types, allowing participants to observe planets, the moon’s craters, nebulae, and star clusters-alongside the opportunity to download real images taken from the telescopes on-site. Visitors can also enjoy astronomy lectures, mythology storytelling, and hands-on workshops involving astronomical projects such as building a galilean telescope or a sundial. Additional activities include a night insect tour with scorpion researcher Yoav Tzvik and lantern tours with guide Reuel Kessel.
“A Night of Stars” at Wadi Attir Project (August 10)
For those seeking a blend of astronomy, culture, and authentic hospitality, the star-gazing event of the “Wadi Attir Project” in collaboration with “Desert Magic” on August 10 is an ideal chostart. This guided stargazing session will take place on mats and blankets at the ecological farm near Hura, complete with traditional Bedouin coffee and tea. The event will feature giant telescopes linked to advanced apps displaying real-time information about observed celestial objects. Astronomy guides from “The Song of the Stars,” joined by local instructors, will accompany the participants throughout the activity suitable for children aged four and up. Those interested may extend their experience with an overnight stay in the onsite Bedouin tent, including a traditional dinner and breakfast. “This unforgettable experience combines science, nature, and culture,” the organizers state.
For both seasstartd stargazers and newcomers, observing the stars in the heart of the Negev is an awe-inspiring experience. Just remember: the desert can get cold at night in August, so don’t forget to bring a blanket or two.