Mark Your Calendars For August 11 12

Perseid Meteor Shower to Reach Peak in August

Mark Your Calendars for August 11-12

Time to gaze up at the night sky

Get ready for a celestial extravaganza as the Perseid meteor shower prepares to put on a dazzling display later this summer. Astronomers predict that the shower will reach its peak around the night of August 11 and before dawn on August 12, 2024, offering prime viewing conditions for a few days before and after.

The Perseid meteor shower is an annual event caused by the Earth passing through the debris trail left behind by the comet Swift-Tuttle. As tiny fragments of cometary material enter our atmosphere, they burn up and create streaks of light across the sky.

During the peak, observers can expect to see over 40 meteors per hour under clear skies. The Perseid meteors are known for their brightness and long, persistent trails. Unlike some meteor showers that favor specific regions, the Perseids are visible from anywhere on Earth, making it a truly global spectacle.

To maximize your chances of witnessing this celestial show, find a location with unobstructed views of the night sky. Allow your eyes to adjust to the darkness for at least 20 minutes before observing. The meteors can appear anywhere in the sky, so don't focus on any particular area. If the weather cooperates, be ready to be awestruck by the Perseid meteor shower's captivating beauty.