It might be cloudy in Baltimore, but that’s not going to stop tonight’s meteor shower.  If you’re willing to wait for a break in the clouds to catch a glimpse, Perseid is reportedly one of the most worthwhile meteor showers of the year. The best view begins tonight at midnight (technically August 13th), when the “Perseus” constellation rises, according to editor Rebecca Johnson from  StarDate Magazine, a publication put out by the University of Texas at Austin’s McDonald Observatory.

At the time of Perseus’ rising, wrote Johnson in a press release, “the slender crescent Moon will have slipped below the horizon and its light will not interfere with the faint meteors. If skies are clear, star-watchers can expect to see dozens of meteors per hour between midnight and dawn,” she said.

(An animated diagram of the Perseus shower)

Where should Baltimoreans watch the shower? Unsurprisingly, Johnson recommends that star gazers get as far away from city lights as possible in order to get the best view of the shower. “Look for state or city parks or other safe, dark sites. Lie on a blanket or reclining chair to get a full-sky view,” writes Johnson.  The best way to know you’re in a good viewing spot? “If you can see all of the stars in the Little Dipper, you have good dark-adapted vision.”

For a unique viewing experience, drive to Howard County. Towson astrophysics professor Alex Storrs has joined forces with the Howard County Conservancy to host a Perseid Meteor Shower-watching PARTY at the conservatory. The event, which begins at 10 pm, is free, and will provide you with a friendly crowd of fellow star-gazers to share the experience. Full details here.