Bootids to illuminate sky in minor meteor shower

Meteor shower enthusiasts can search the skies tonight for the June Bootids, a group of meteors that have not been seen since 2004.

“The June Bootids are usually a relatively minor shower but do occasionally produce good views,” IU astronomy professor Caty Pilachowski said. “The period of activity can last several days, even into early July. Predictions are uncertain, but a good show this year is possible.”

The Bootids occur during a bright moon this year, Pilachowski said, which might make the meteors harder to see than usual.

“One advantage of the Bootids, however, is that they are best in the evening,” she said. “No need to get up early.”

Senior Stephen Speck said he has seen meteor showers and the northern lights before and might try to see the Bootids. However, he said he would not look for them from campus.

“There’s too much light pollution,” he said.

Instead, Speck said he would watch them from the southeast side of Bloomington.
While the Bootids might give a good show, Pilachowski said the Perseids in early August will probably give a better one.

“It’s worth getting up early to see it,” she said.

— Bailey Loosemore