Stargazing – rain or shine! Join NIU STEAM for a dazzling evening of stargazing, talks about space exploration and viewing of the annual Perseid meteor shower. Our panel of experts will introduce us to stellar science subjects. Then we’ll head outside to observe the night sky with telescopes or the naked eye. We’ll provide a few telescopes, or feel free to bring your own. Speakers: Eve Kovacs, Ph.D. (Physicist, Argonne National Laboratory) will talk about simulations of the universe. Joel Knapper (NASA Solar System Ambassador) will discuss NASA's Webb Space Telescope. John Shelton, Ph.D. (NIU Assistant Professor of Mechanical Engineering) will talk about nanoparticle thermal energy storage – and how this technology might be the key to extended space travel. Jeremy Benson (NIU STEAM Educator) will introduce us to the Perseids and tell us what to watch for in the night sky.