August 11-13 Camp Out.
Perseids Meteor Shower: New moon creates optimum viewing.
The playa offers minimal light pollution and broad horizons, arguably the best viewing in the Western Hemisphere. Perseids peaks on August 13, which coincides with the new moon, with visible meteors expected to be two per minute.
NASA details can be found on our Wiki:

Camp out with host Will Roger and Friends in the deep playa. A map with our location and GPS coordinates will be posted on our web site that weekend and on the Visitor Contact Trailer in Gerlach.

DIRECTIONS to 2007 CAMP OUT
Printable Map
(posted Wednesday, August 8)

From Gerlach drive to the 12 mile playa access that has the BLM sign.

From the pavement go 6.5 miles north west on the west playa road. Take the traditional road not the one that's closest to the shore.

At 6.5 miles look for the second tire marker and head due east 3.2 miles. Look for us there.

Coordinates N 40° 51.442, W119° 06.774

Google Earth link for 40.857 -119.113: perseids.kml
(save to file, and then open in GE)

heavens-above sky and satellite information

Saturday: Explore the playa or take part in a resoration project with the Nevada Outdoor School. Work consists of mine post removal in the Calicos along the western arm of the playa. The Calico's are one of the most beautiful and diverse ranges in the Black Rock area and offer excellent rockhounding opportunities as well.

Saturday evening: Friends and the Nevada Outdoor School will host a pot-luck dinner and cocktail hour with Will's famous Margaritas.

Sunday: Hike the Calico's with NOS and Friends or do your own thing. The stars peak on Sunday. Stick around!

Bring: Telescopes, binoculars, and prepare for leave no trace camping.

Coming? Give us a heads up please! info@blackrockdesert.org