Get ready for a dazzling cosmic light show as the Perseid meteor shower peaks next week, Aug. 12-13. This year’s spectacle is expected to bring up to 100 shooting stars per hour and potential fireballs that can outshine even the brightest planets.
The Perseids occur when Earth passes through ancient debris shed by comet 109P/Swift-Tuttle, resulting in bright flashes as meteors collide with our atmosphere at speeds of up to 37 miles per second. The show is known for long wakes and dramatic fireballs, but moonlight may hinder visibility this year.
Despite the moon’s illumination, stargazers can still spot meteors emanating from a point near Eta Persei in the constellation Perseus. Those new to stargazing can use smartphone apps with augmented reality technology to help locate specific stars.
The best viewing times are expected in the hours before dawn on Aug. 13, when the radiant is highest in the northeastern night sky. To maximize your chances of seeing meteors, allow your night vision to adjust for 30 minutes and gaze approximately 40 degrees above the radiant.
For optimal imaging, consider using a camera like the Nikon Z6 II, which features a rugged design perfect for capturing shooting stars. Space.com invites you to share your Perseid meteor photos – send them to [email protected] for publication.
Source: https://www.space.com/stargazing/meteor-showers/the-perseid-meteor-shower-2025-peaks-aug-12-13-heres-what-to-expect-from-the-dazzling-cosmic-light-show