SCIENCE

Catch the Last Glimpses of the Perseid Meteor Shower Before It Ends!

EarthWed Aug 13 2025

The Perseid meteor shower, renowned for its dazzling display, remains visible until August 23rd. This annual event, active since July 17th, is often celebrated as the most spectacular meteor shower of the year.

Peak Viewing and Tips

  • Peak Activity: Up to 100 meteors per hour at its peak.
  • Best Viewing Conditions: Dark, rural areas away from city lights.
  • Optimal Viewing Time: Northeast before sunrise.
  • Useful Tool: Global Meteor Network’s meteor-tracker for optimal viewing times.

Origins and Science

  • Source: Comet 109P/Swift-Tuttle, orbiting the sun every 133 years.
  • Name: Derived from the constellation Perseus, from which the meteors appear to radiate.
  • Characteristics: Known for their long, bright trails.

How Meteor Showers Occur

Meteor showers happen when Earth passes through the debris left by comets and asteroids. As these meteoroids enter Earth's atmosphere, they vaporize, creating the streaks of light we see as shooting stars. The Perseid shower is a prime example of this natural phenomenon, offering a breathtaking display of cosmic beauty.

questions

    If a meteor shower is the best of the year, does that mean it's the 'prom king' of celestial events?
    If you make a wish on a Perseid meteor, does it count double because it's so bright?
    What scientific evidence supports the claim that the Perseid meteor shower is the 'best' of the year?

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