This year’s annual Perseid meteor shower will reach its peak next week, but viewing conditions may be less ideal due to a full moon on Aug. 12-13. According to NASA, the full moon will likely wash out the view, making it difficult for observers to spot meteors.
Despite this, NASA recommends trying to catch a glimpse of the Perseids before dawn, as best viewing conditions can be seen in the early morning hours. Robert Lunsford, an observer with the American Meteor Society, suggests finding a comfortable spot, being patient, and facing north to increase chances of spotting meteors.
The Perseid meteor shower originates from the Swift-Tuttle comet, which has a nucleus of about 16 miles wide. The comet takes over 130 years to circle the Sun, resulting in an annual display of meteors that can be seen every year after its passage. With an average of 25 meteors visible per hour, the Perseids are one of the most popular and accessible meteor showers of the summer season.
However, it’s worth noting that this year’s peak may not be as spectacular as previous years due to the moon’s brightness. While some meteors may still be visible in the predawn hours, viewing conditions will not be ideal.
Source: https://www.npr.org/2025/08/09/nx-s1-5495622/perseids-meteor-shower-moon