Astronomers have predicted that, on the nights of 21st and 22nd October 2014, meteorite showers from Halley’s comet’s debris will take place. And, with its zero light pollution, the Sahara desert offers astronomy aficionados excellent conditions to watch them.
Our partners at Nick’s luxurious encampment in the wild dunes of Erg Chigaga are organising a star gazing event for these dates which will include a presentation by astronomer Ken Campbell, a regular contributor in several international newspapers, magazines and TV channels, and whose infectious enthusiasm about Astronomy, and his huge knowledge of night sky, would turn even the most reluctant of your clients into a devoted lover of this fascinating discipline.
After sunset, each night, Ken will make a presentation of about one hour focusing on our place in the universe and the birth of stars. He will provide one on one ‘tutoring’, guiding guests around the constellations. Using the encampment’s telescope they will be able to see the planet Mars as well as the rings of Saturn. Deep sky objects will be seen such as the Orion Nebula, the mysterious Ring Nebula and the stunning Pleiades star cluster. The dark sky environment will allow you to see fainter objects such as the Andromeda Galaxy 2.5 million light years away.
And, on the night of 22nd October the Earth will pass through the debris left behind by Halley’s Comet, producing an impressive meteor shower of possibly up to 50 meteors an hour streaking across the sky.
Normal desert activities such as camel riding, hiking, or sand boarding, will remain available. This is a fantastic opportunity to enjoy both a rare astronomy phenomenon at its best, and one of the weirdest and most beautiful landscapes on earth, all in one go!
The places available are very limited, and bound to be sold out very soon…
To see an example of how Mountain Voyage can integrate this unique event into an insightful Moroccan itinerary, open here and do not hesitate to write here if you would like to know more!