Ahead of the spectacular Eta Aquariid meteor shower later this month, Ring is helping Brits experience this spectacular annual astronomical event by collaborating with the UK Fireball Alliance (UKFAll). The initiative follows recent Ring customer footage of an unusually bright shooting star travelling across the English Channel at the incredible speed of 70 km/s.
Richard and Claire Ward-Jones from Warwick shared the video with Ring after reports of people in their area witnessing a meteor shower. When reviewing their Ring Video Doorbell Pro footage, Richard was amazed to see the shooting star light up the sky.
To help others witness the upcoming Eta Aquariid meteor shower, the UKFAll and Ring are equipping the nation with 50 of Ring’s Stick Up Cam Pro and Wired Video Doorbell Pro devices and encouraging them to share their astronomical footage. The devices are available to those in the best areas to view the shower, including Scotland, Exmoor and Northumberland. With up to 50 shooting stars expected to dazzle skies every hour between April 19th and May 28th, the shower offers an opportunity for the 69% of Brits* that haven’t seen a shooting star, but hope to in their lifetime, according to Ring’s new research.
Charlotte Bays, Secretary at the UKFAII commented: “Travelling at speeds of up to 70 km per second, meteors travel faster than any other objects in the sky. As a result, shooting stars are usually gone within a few seconds. That’s why meteor showers like the Eta Aquariid are so special, offering lucky stargazers a rare chance to see an amazing astronomical show.”
Ring’s research also revealed what Brits would wish upon a shooting star, if they were to spot one. The top wish was to be happy (46%) followed by owning a house (19%), travelling (18%) and finding love (17%). This lies in contrast with the top wishes from childhood, which include wanting to own a puppy (20%), superpowers (20%), a holiday (17%) and to be famous (15%).
Dave Ward, Managing Director EU & International at Ring said: “Wishes may change as we grow up, but everyone can appreciate the phenomenal beauty in seeing a meteor shower. I’m glad Ring devices can play a small role in helping people capture and share these fascinating moments, and maybe even contribute toward scientific discoveries.”
From 9th April, those living in the top UK viewing areas for shooting stars can apply at www.ukfall.org.uk to receive Ring devices and support UKFAII in the study of astronomical activity in the UK.
If you have captured footage of any astronomical events on your Ring device, please send to ukstories@ring.com or tag @ringUK with your video on Instagram.
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