The Perseids meteor shower, among the best sky shows of the year at about 100 meteors per hour, already started in mid-July and continues to Aug. 24 but peaks Aug. 11–13.
However, because the full August moon known as the Sturgeon Moon (see Sturgeon moon – Travel Smart With Jodie) is now lighting up the heavens it may be hard to see all the meteors shooting across the sky. (Time and Date has a Meteor Shower Sky Map for different locations).
What is it?
The Perseids are named after the constellation Perseus because they seem to emanate from or near (radiant) it. They are space debris from the comet 109P Swift-Tuttle discovered in 1862, according to NASA.
The Earth passes through the Swift-Tuttle trail as it goes around the sun. When the debris enters our atmosphere, it burns up, creating fiery streaks.
Where?
Best is the Northern Hemisphere where the constellation is visible all year.
For more information visit space.com/perseus-constellation.html and NASA
Where?
Best is the Northern Hemisphere where the constellation is visible all year even though the Perseids show up most in August.
For more information visit space.com/perseus-constellation.html and NASA
