Perseid Meteor Shower (Annual)

About

The Perseid Meteor Shower is one of the most spectacular and reliable annual celestial events. It peaks in mid-August, typically around August 12-13, and is known for producing up to 100 meteors per hour under ideal conditions. The shower originates from the debris left behind by Comet 109P/Swift-Tuttle, which orbits the Sun every 133 years. The meteors appear to radiate from the constellation Perseus, hence their name. This shower is particularly popular due to its bright and fast meteors, often leaving behind long trails of light. The Perseids are best viewed in the Northern Hemisphere during the pre-dawn hours, though they can be seen as early as 10 p.m. on peak nights. The shower is active from mid-July to late August, offering ample time for observation. Its long history dates back to ancient China, with modern recognition linking it to Comet Swift-Tuttle in the 19th century. The Perseids are ideal for astrophotography, offering stunning visuals with their colorful trails and occasional fireballs. Viewers can enjoy this spectacle without special equipment, making it accessible to anyone interested in astronomy.