Time: 2024-07-31
Every summer , the Earth passes through a cloud of space debris that brings a Meteor shower , and this summer is no different . The Perseid Meteor Shower , one of the most plentiful celestial light shows on Earth , is back again until the end of August . The comet , which the debris that forms Perseids comes from , last visited the Earth 's atmosphere in 1992 , leaving behind a cloud of dust and pebbles that we get to witness each summer.
The shower is typically active from mid - July to the end of August , with this year 's show starting from Sunday , July 14 to Sunday , Sept. 1 . Named after the constellation Perseus , the Perseids are tiny debris caused by the Earth passing through debris left behind by the comet Swift - Tuttle , which last passed close to Earth in 1992 . Most of the Perseids are close in size to a grain of sand and reach temperatures of more than 3,000 degrees Fahrenheit . These meteoroids move at an astonishing speed of 133,200 miles per hour when they hit Earth 's atmosphere , with most being visible when they are about 60 miles from the ground.
The official peak of the Perseid Meteor Shower will be on Aug. 12 and overnight into Aug. 13 , with an expected average of 100 meteors per hour during the peak . The best time to view the shower will be after the moon sets and before the sun comes up . According to NASA , binoculars or a telescope are not necessary to see the meteor shower ; all that 's required is a location away from light pollution . Tennessee offers several places with little light pollution where stargazers can enjoy the spectacle.
Moving on to other meteor showers , the Southern Delta Aquariid and the Alpha Capricornids are set to peak this week . The Southern Delta Aquariid was most visible late Monday night into early Tuesday morning , producing 15 to 20 meteors per hour in the Northern Hemisphere . On the other hand , the Alpha Capricornids , expected to produce about five meteors per hour , will be more visible late Wednesday into Thursday.
For those in the New York City area , the upcoming week might be challenging due to thunderstorm chances . However , late Wednesday into Thursday will be more ideal for viewing the Alpha Capricornids . As CBS Boston reports , the Northern Lights might also make an appearance over the Northeast this week.
In conclusion , the Perseid Meteor Shower , along with other celestial phenomena , offers a spectacular display of nature 's beauty . From the tiny meteoroids reaching Earth 's atmosphere at incredible speeds to the breathtaking light shows in the night sky , these events remind us of the vast wonders of the universe above us . So , grab a blanket , find a spot away from city lights , and enjoy the mesmerizing sight of shooting stars painting the night sky during the peak of the Perseid Meteor Shower.
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