Perseid meteor shower set to dazzle northern hemisphere this week

Astronomers say viewing conditions promising for this year’s shower, and 50 to 100 meteors an hour may be visible

Perseid meteor shower set to dazzle northern hemisphere this week

TL;DR

  • The Perseid meteor shower is peaking with favorable viewing conditions in the northern hemisphere.
  • Up to 50-100 meteors per hour may be visible under ideal conditions.
  • The shower's peak coincides with a total solar eclipse and a six-planet parade.
  • The new moon phase ensures minimal moonlight interference, enhancing visibility.
  • The Perseids originate from debris left by comet 109P/Swift-Tuttle.
  • Viewing is recommended after dark, away from city lights, and between midnight and dawn.
  • Allow eyes 30 minutes to adjust to darkness and focus on a patch of sky.