The Perseid meteor shower is one of the most well-known meteor showers, and it reaches its peak in August each year. As a result, many people wonder when the biggest meteor shower is.
Origins of the Perseid Meteor Shower
The Perseid meteor shower is caused by the comet Swift-Tuttle. This comet makes a close approach to the Earth every 133 years, and as it does so, it releases dust and debris that burn up in our planet’s atmosphere, creating the bright streaks of light we see as meteoroids.
Peak Viewing Times for Perseid Meteor Shower
The peak viewing times for the Perseid meteor shower are around August 9-13, during which stargazers can expect to see up to 60-100 meteors per hour. This makes the Perseid meteor shower one of the most active and reliable meteor showers of the year.
How to View the Perseid Meteor Shower
To get the best view of the Perseid meteor shower, it’s important to head to a location away from city lights with a clear view of the night sky. Allow your eyes to adjust to the darkness for at least 30 minutes before looking up. The meteors can appear anywhere in the sky, so it’s best to look up in all directions.
The Best Places to View the Perseid Meteor Shower
Some of the best places to view the Perseid meteor shower include:
- National Parks with minimal light pollution such as Yosemite, Yellowstone, and the Grand Canyon
- Remote deserts such as Joshua Tree and Death Valley
- Dark sky preserves such as Cherry Springs State Park in Pennsylvania
Overall, the Perseid meteor shower is an event not to be missed. It’s one of the most active and reliable meteor showers of the year, and with its peak viewing times in August, it’s the perfect time to head outside and take in the spectacular light show.
