Perseid Meteor Shower: Peak Viewing This Weekend
Get ready for a celestial spectacle! The annual Perseid meteor shower, known for its dazzling display of shooting stars, will reach its peak this weekend, offering stargazers a chance to witness up to 100 meteors per hour.
The shower, considered the best in the northern hemisphere, is caused by debris from the Swift-Tuttle comet streaking through the Earth's atmosphere. This year, the peak is expected to occur between Sunday and Monday night, with the moon setting around 11:20 p.m. local time. This means the best viewing time will be after midnight, into the early hours of the morning when skies are darkest.
While the peak occurs in mid-August, the Perseids actually started on 17 July and will continue until 24 August, meaning you might catch glimpses of shooting stars and fireballs even before and after the peak.
To catch the best view, head to a location with minimal light pollution and unobstructed views of the northwestern sky. A hilltop, open field, or even a designated DarkSky International-certified park are ideal choices. For ultimate comfort, consider booking a stay at a stargazing hotel, allowing you to enjoy the show from the comfort of your bed.
Look for the constellation Perseus, located high in the northwestern sky after midnight, where the shower originates. Keep an eye out for the occasional fireball, a brighter meteor that leaves behind a vibrant streak of light.
This weekend, grab a blanket, lie back, and prepare to be amazed by the spectacular celestial show that the Perseid meteor shower offers.