Hey there! Exciting news for stargazers: the most spectacular meteor shower of 2024 is about to light up the night sky.
However, if you’re planning to catch the show, NASA has some tips to help you make the most of it.
The Perseid meteor shower is set to peak from midnight Sunday into Monday morning.
During this peak, you can expect to see between 50 and 75 meteors per hour. For the best experience, it’s recommended to head outside between 12 AM and 5:30 AM, when the meteors will be most visible in the northeastern sky.
NASA warns that city lights could spoil the view.
To enjoy the full display, try to escape the urban light pollution.
The darker your surroundings, the more meteors you’ll be able to see. Find a dark spot away from city lights, ideally in a place with minimal light pollution for the best experience.
The shower will be at its best during the darkest hours of the night when the moon is nearly absent.
This lack of moonlight creates the perfect canvas for observing shooting stars. If you’re looking to enhance your viewing, seek out a location with a clear, unobstructed view of the sky.
The Perseids are named after the Perseus constellation, which is located in the northern part of the sky. You’ll want to find this constellation as a reference point for where the meteors will appear to originate.
For the best spots, consider visiting an International Dark Sky Park or consult a light pollution map.
Prepare for the Night
Before heading out, check the weather forecast to ensure a clear night. Dress warmly, and don’t forget essentials like bug spray. Comfort is key for an enjoyable experience.
Viewing Tips
Once you’re at your dark sky location, avoid using your phone or other sources of white light, as they can ruin your night vision. Also, skip the telescope or binoculars—these tools aren’t helpful for meteor watching and can make the meteors harder to spot.
Enjoy the Show
Even if you miss the peak, don’t stress.
The Perseid shower will continue to be visible until the end of August. But if you catch it this weekend, you’re in for an extraordinary celestial display. Enjoy the show and happy stargazing!