The exodus has begun. From the corners of the Nation amateur astronomers are converging on Merritt Reservoir near Valentine Nebraska for a week of observing and camaraderie. This place draws us, like a magnet to its pristine beauty and dark skies. Merritt is a mecca for us city astronomers who yearn for the way the sky used to be. Here we can still witness the absolute magnificence of a sky void of any intrusive light pollution. From horizon to horizon the stars are so vivid and so intense that even veteran observers can get lost as they attempt to trace out familiar constellations.
One of the many attractions this year is the Perseids meteor shower. The timing was perfect this year for a new moon period and a full week when we could all gather to witness this spectacle.
But first let me tell you of the drive. First time visitors to Nebraska usually travel Interstate 80 and never venture too far from this silver ribbon through the Platte Valley. We took the first right at Grand Island and Highway 2 lead us through the Sand Hills. From this vantage point the scenery is alive with multiple shades of green and undulating hills of short prairie grass. The shear isolation and magnificence of it causes one to pause and think. They are really sand dunes frozen in time and covered with a lush green carpet of vegetation. This is the scene that Interstate visitors never see....only adventurers like us as we make our way to the Great Nebraska Star Party.