The Perseids are one of the most prolific meteor showers of the year. Born from the orbital debris of comet Swift–Tuttle, the Perseids produce spectacular fireballs and intense peaks. The meteor shower is active every year between mid-July and the end of August.
The annual shower is active between the nights of July 17 and August 24.
This year, astronomers expect the Perseids to explode in intensity on the night of August 12 and August 13.
Here in the UK, the Perseids will be best seen when the skies are darkest.
According to the Royal Observatory, this will be between midnight and 5.30am BST.
The Observatory said: “The radiant of the Perseids is actually alway above the horizon as seen from the UK, which means that observers in the UK should be able to see some meteors as soon as the Sun sets. Therefore it is worth looking up in the early evening.”
When viewed from Earth, the meteors will appear to break out into our skies from a single point or radiant in the constellation Perseus.
In reality, however, the meteors will come flying from a different part of space altogether.
In order to watch the Perseids on the night of the peak, look out for a dark and open space with an unobstructed view of the horizon.
Meteor showers are best observed if you can see the entire night sky at once.
The Royal Observatory said: “Meteors can appear in any part of the sky so the more sky you can see the better.
“Find an area with a clear view of the horizon and away from trees and buildings.
“Binoculars and telescopes are not necessary as they will restrict the size of the sky that will be visible to you.”
If you decide to watch the Perseids in the open next week, remember to dress appropriately for the weather and allow your eyes to adjust to the dark.
Article/ info source: The Express
