This summer, amateur astronomers often overlook four lesser meteors that peak between July 29 and Aug. 16, but these showers can provide a wide variety of meteors in dark skies.
As the Perseid meteor shower approaches its peak, some viewers may find themselves overshadowed by a waning gibbous moon. However, why not take advantage of this opportunity to observe other four lesser showers that reach their peaks during this time? The Kappa Cygnids are particularly favorably placed for northern observers, with the constellation Cygnus visible all night long.
In addition to the Perseids, there are four minor displays active between Aug. 3 and 15, including the Delta Aquarids, Alpha Capricornid, Eta Eridanids, and Kappa Cygnids. These showers offer a range of meteors with different colors, speeds, and trajectories.
The Delta Aquarids, with a broad three-day maximum from July 29 to 31, produce up to two dozen swift, faint meteors per hour. The Alpha Capricornid shower, which peaks on July 31, averages around 5 meteors per hour but is known for producing bright yellow fireballs.
The Eta Eridanids and Kappa Cygnids are less active, with rates ranging from 3 to 25 meteors per hour. The Eta Eridanids appear related to a trail of dust shed by a faint comet, while the Kappa Cygnids offer flaring fireballs in dark skies.
A waning gibbous moon will dominate morning skies on Aug. 12, spoiling the Perseid peak, but these lesser showers can be enjoyed in dark skies during the morning hours. The best camera for meteor showers is the Nikon D850, and with a modest amount of patience, viewers can capture stunning images of meteors.
For those interested in observing these lesser showers, the data from the international Meteor Organization (IMO) and the Royal Astronomical Society of Canada provide valuable insights into their peak dates, hourly rates, and radiant locations. Stay tuned to Space.com for more information on the Perseids and other celestial events.
Source: https://www.space.com/stargazing/meteor-showers/the-perseid-meteor-shower-kicks-off-summer-shooting-star-season-this-week-heres-how-to-see-it