Perseid meteor shower to peak this week: How to watch
The annual Perseid meteor shower reaches its peak this week, offering skywatchers a dazzling celestial display. If you trace the meteor trails of the Perseids back to their source, you will find they seem to come from a spot near the constellation Perseus - hence their name. The shower has been active since mid-July and will peak between the night of August 12-13. This guide provides an in-depth look at the phenomenon, including its origins, viewing tips, and expectations.
Perseid meteor shower: All about the origin
The Perseids are remnants of Comet Swift-Tuttle, which orbits the Sun every 133 years. As the comet travels, it leaves behind a trail of dust and debris. When Earth passes through this debris field each year, the particles collide with our atmosphere, burning up and creating the streaks of light we see as meteors. This also explains why the meteor shower arises at roughly the same time and from the same part of the sky each year.
Perseid meteor shower's visibility and viewing tips
Unlike some showers, the Perseids are known for their fast and bright meteors, with rates of up to 100 meteors per hour at their peak. This year's Perseid shower is expected to be particularly spectacular due to a near-absence of moonlight during the peak viewing period, allowing skywatchers to see even the fainter meteors. To maximize chances of witnessing this celestial event, stargazers are advised to find a dark area away from street lights and avoid looking at phones.
