Time: 2024-07-06
The night sky in July promises to be illuminated with a spectacular show of Meteor showers . It 's not just the Fourth of July fireworks that will captivate viewers , but also the annual meteor shower activity that will light up the sky once the fireworks fade away .
Meteors are a common sight throughout the year , but the highest activity is witnessed during meteor showers . This July , sky gazers can look forward to not one , not two , but three meteor showers , including the much - awaited Perseids , which is considered the most popular meteor shower of the year .
The month kicks off with the alpha Capricornids meteor shower , which runs from July 7 to Aug. 15 . Peak activity for this shower is expected at the end of the month , specifically on the night of July 30 into 31 . However , this particular meteor shower is relatively weak and typically produces only a few shooting stars per hour . Viewing opportunities improve with the upcoming Perseids and southern delta Aquariids meteor showers , commencing on July 14 and 18 , respectively .
The Perseids meteor shower , lasting until Sept. 1 , is highly anticipated and is often regarded as the best meteor shower of the year . This year , the Perseids will peak on the night of Aug. 11 into 12 , offering viewers a chance to witness between 50 and 75 shooting stars per hour . The moon 's 44 % fullness on that night sets at 1 a.m. on Aug. 12 , ensuring an optimal viewing experience without interference from excessive moonlight .
For those interested in viewing the Perseids , the Forest Preserve is hosting viewing parties at three different preserves on the night of peak activity . Join the gatherings at Forked Creek Preserve , Hickory Creek Preserve , and Whalon Lake from 8 to 10 p.m. on Sunday , Aug. 11 , for a chance to witness this stunning celestial event.
The southern delta Aquariids meteor shower will follow soon after the Perseids , running from July 18 to Aug. 21 , with peak activity expected on the night of July 29 into 30 . This shower is considered strong , but it is best viewed from the Southern Hemisphere due to its radiant point being lower in the sky when observed from the Northern Hemisphere .
Aside from meteor showers , July also presents an excellent opportunity to observe Mercury , the closest planet to Earth . On July 22 , Mercury will reach its eastern elongation , making it visible in the evening sky . This phenomenon occurs when Mercury is farthest from the sun and offers prime viewing chances.
Don't miss the full moon on July 21 , known as the buck moon among other names . Take advantage of the dark night skies in July to witness these celestial wonders and be captivated by the beauty of the universe.
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