Turkey 2011 Rain of Shooting Stars

Our tour starts in the megacity of Istanbul extending both on the European and the Asian sides of the Bosphorus, and is therefore the only metropolis in the world that is situated on two continents. Taking the sleeper train, we travel into the heart of Turkey to a region famous for its scenery and history. This area is also an ideal location from which to view an astronomical spectacle.

Cappadocia is undeniably a fantasy of nature, with its famous fairy chimneys. These strange geological formations result from over 30 million years of the erosion of the tuff (consolidated volcanic ash) erupted from three volcanoes. This stunning area provides us a unique base for watching what is set to be one of the finest meteor showers for decades to come. It will provide unforgettable memories of your chance to experience this once in a lifetime event.

Computer models suggest that the Draconid Meteor Shower of 2011 is set to be one of the finest meteor showers for many years to come. On the evening of 8th October the Earth will pass through filaments of dust shed by the periodic comet 21P/Giacobini-Zinner and many experts are forecasting peak rates of several hundred meteors per hour.

The Draconid meteors are so named because they appear to emanate from a point, known as the radiant, in the constellation of Draco the Dragon. As the tiny dust grains slam into the Earth’s upper atmosphere at high speed, they burn up producing the brief streaks of light that we call meteors or ‘shooting stars’. Visually, Draconid meteors seem exceptionally slow-moving.

Join us on an expedition to the wonders of the sky »

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