Perseid Meteor Shower to Peak Sunday Night

Astronomers Excited for Celestial Display

NASA Provides Tips for Observing the Event

The annual Perseid meteor shower is set to peak on Sunday night, giving astronomy enthusiasts a chance to witness one of the most spectacular celestial events of the year. The shower is produced by debris from the Swift-Tuttle comet, which orbits the sun every 133 years.

When the comet passes close to the sun, it leaves behind a trail of dust and particles. As Earth passes through this debris field, the particles enter our atmosphere and burn up, creating the streaks of light known as meteors. The Perseid meteor shower is known for its high rate of activity, with up to 60 meteors per hour visible at its peak.

NASA has created a Meteor Shower Portal that provides information on the Perseid meteor shower, including the best dates and times to observe it. The portal also features an animation that shows how the meteor shower will appear from different locations around the world.

If you're planning to observe the meteor shower, NASA recommends finding a dark location with a clear view of the sky. Lie down on a blanket or chair and allow your eyes to adjust to the darkness. It may take up to 30 minutes for your eyes to fully adapt.

The Perseid meteor shower is a beautiful and awe-inspiring event that offers a glimpse into the vastness of our universe. So make sure to mark your calendars for Sunday night and enjoy the show!