Perseid Meteor Shower Guide: Peak Dates & Viewing Tips

 For those passionate about stargazing, the summer season brings the eagerly awaited Perseid meteor shower. This celestial event, celebrated in the Northern Hemisphere, peaks during the balmy nights of August. Do note, the meteor shower has already begun, but its climax will occur between August 12 and 13, presenting the chance to witness anywhere between fifty and a hundred meteors per hour. On the night of August 12-13, the show will be particularly spectacular, unobscured by the Moon as it was the previous year.

What should you understand about the Perseids? 

NASA reveals that the Perseids often leave striking trails of light and color in their wake as they traverse Earth's atmosphere. These spectacular displays usually consist of 50 to 100 meteors per hour. The American Meteor Society (AMS) states that the Perseids are particles emitted by comet 109P/Swift-Tuttle during its numerous visits to the inner solar system.

The term "Perseids" comes from their radiant point being near the notable constellation Perseus, as highlighted by AMS. The meteors can be traced back to this radiant point in the northeastern sky, but don't restrict your gaze to this area alone to enjoy the meteor shower. According to AccuWeather.com, the meteors can be observed across the entire sky.

NASA also notes that the Perseids are renowned for their fireballs - large, vibrant bursts of light and color that persist longer than a typical meteor shower.

The Perseids will remain active until August 24, offering ample opportunities to spot a meteor trail in the night sky. The optimal time to see the most meteors is during the meteor shower's peak, scheduled for the night of August 12-13. On these nights, the Moon will be in a waning crescent phase, appearing to be only about 13 to 14 percent full.

By August 16, a new Moon will rise, offering further chances to spot meteors in the post-peak sky.

The Perseids are most vibrant after midnight until dawn, but due to their abundance, they can be seen at any point during the evening. According to NASA, Perseids are usually most visible in the hours preceding sunrise, although on occasion, you can observe meteors from this shower as early as 10 p.m.

What should you avoid? 

NASA advises allowing your eyes about 30 minutes to adjust to the darkness for the best viewing experience. Avoid looking at devices with bright screens as this can degrade your night vision and decrease your chances of spotting meteors. For those who miss out on the Perseid spectacle, the Orionids will peak on October 21-22. With this information at hand, we wish you a delightful viewing experience!