Space rocks.
Considered one of the solar system’s most breathtaking spectacles can be highly visible throughout the U.S. and the remainder of the northern hemisphere within the upcoming days, putting on what experts predict to be a powerful show from above for the ages.
The annual Perseids — billed by the National Aeronautics and Space Administration as “the very best meteor shower of the 12 months” with as much as 100 visible each hour — is sure to be even higher this weekend because “conditions this 12 months couldn’t be more perfect,” in line with Sky & Telescope Observing Editor Diana Hannikainen.
The moon can be in its final, waning crescent phase and at only 8% illumination, Hannikainen explained, adding that it can also “rises within the wee hours of the morning on Aug. 13 and won’t interfere with viewing.”
The Perseids — named for the Perseus constellation — have actually been ongoing since late July and can proceed through the beginning of September. They’re caused when the Earth routinely crosses paths with debris left over from the comet 109P/Swift-Tuttle.
Although the proceedings are weeks long, they are going to reach peak visibility on our third rock from the sun this weekend only.
The shower may even bring just a few extra fireworks into our scope.
“Perseids are also known for his or her fireballs. Fireballs are larger explosions of sunshine and color that may persist longer than a mean meteor streak,” NASA notes, boasting that the “fireballs are also brighter” than the standard meteors that fly by Earth.
When and where to observe
NASA reports that the most important event will kick off around 10 p.m.
The most effective time to stare upon the Perseids this weekend can be overnight Saturday into Sunday — particularly from midnight to about 5:30 a.m., in line with the Royal Museums Greenwich.
“Meteors can appear in any a part of the sky so the more sky you’ll be able to see the higher. Find an area with a transparent view of the horizon and away from trees and buildings,” the institute recommends.
“Binoculars and telescopes will not be needed as they are going to restrict the dimensions of the sky that can be visible.”
Eliminating light pollution — the glaze of artificial illumination that bounces off the sky — can also be crucial to getting the very best seat within the proverbial house, as much of the population above the equator can be aware of the unparalleled views.
“This might mean heading out to the countryside, a close-by park and even do something so simple as turning your back to street lamps if you happen to will not be in a position to go anywhere,” in line with the museum.
“Give your eyes a minimum of quarter-hour to regulate to the dark so that you would be able to catch more of the fainter meteors – this does mean that you must not have a look at your phone!”
