Stargazing Bliss! Enjoy National Meteor Watch Day from your hot tub in Seattle

Have you heard of National Meteor Watch Day? It’s a special event on June 30th that celebrates the beauty of meteors streaking across the night sky. Imagine soaking in your hot tub while observing this terrific celestial sky show! Whether you’re here in Seattle or elsewhere in the Pacific Northwest, this is a terrific way to kick off summer soaking in your hot tub.

Meteors are fascinating objects. They are small pieces of rock or metal that enter Earth’s atmosphere at high speeds. The friction between the meteors and the air creates intense heat, causing them to glow and sometimes disintegrate. Understanding this process adds a layer of appreciation for the beauty you’re witnessing.

Meteor showers occur when Earth passes through a trail of debris left by a comet. These small particles burn up in the atmosphere, creating bright streaks of light. National Meteor Watch Day usually coincides with the Delta Aquariids meteor shower, which is known for producing many meteors. So, if the conditions are right, you could be in for some exciting meteor viewing.

National Meteor Watch Day is a unique opportunity to connect with nature and appreciate the wonders of the universe. Watching meteors can be calming and awe-inspiring, providing a break from the hustle and bustle of daily life. For Seattle residents, where the sky often hides behind clouds, this day is even more special. June 30th often brings clearer skies, perfect for stargazing.

And what could be better than watching meteors while lounging in your hot tub? Immersing yourself in hot bubbly water and letting the jets help you relax while you take in the show? Sounds good to me! The design of most hot tub seating naturally reclines your body, giving you an unobstructed view of the sky.

To optimize your viewing potential, do your best to get rid of any light pollution! Turning off any exterior lights, as well as your hot tub lighting, will afford you the best chance to spot and enjoy any meteors that might fly across in the night sky. If you’re like me (bad eyes!), you could consider some red lighting if you don’t want total darkness for some reason. Red light is less disruptive to your night vision vs. white or blue light. It will also help you safely move around when you enter and exit the tub.

When to meteor watch? Late evening and early morning hours are the best times. On June 30th, try to be outside between 11 PM and 4 AM. During these hours, the sky is darkest, making meteors easier to spot. Seattle’s summer nights are relatively short, so you have a smaller window of prime viewing time. Plan your stargazing session accordingly.

Bring a few essentials to make your stargazing session more enjoyable. A pair of binoculars can help you see meteors more clearly. A star map or a stargazing app can guide you on where to look. Snacks and drinks are also a good idea, as you might be outside for a while. Just remember to keep them within easy reach, so you don’t have to get out of the hot tub.

Why not share your meteor-watching experience with friends and family? While you could invite a friend or family member to join you in the soak and take in the show, you can also share via social media. Take selfies and, if you’re successful, any pics of the night sky if you actually spot a meteor. Post and use the hashtag #NationalMeteorWatchDay to connect with others who are also celebrating. You might even inspire someone else to look up at the sky and enjoy the show.

Since I installed my hot tub on my rooftop deck, it’s inspired me over the past couple of years to really give the sky my attention. Not only does it enhance my nighttime soaks, it also reminds me of how small we humans are compared to the vastness of the universe. It’s a terrific time to meditate and self-reflect while looking for those meteors.

Here’s hoping that the weather cooperates in Seattle, and we’ll all be able to spot a meteor or two.

Happy Meteor Watch Day!