The Perseid meteor shower returns this week. Stargazers can expect a peak on the mornings of August 12 and 13. During this time the shower will produce between 50 and 100 meteors every hour. Experts indicate that this year brings a distinct advantage for observers because a new moon will coincide with the peak. This lunar cycle results in dark skies that improve the visibility of the celestial display.
The Perseids remain active from mid-July through September 1. While activity is present during these dates, the density of meteors reaches its highest level during the mid-August window. The event is famous for fireballs which create significant bursts of light and color that outshine standard streaks.
NASA identifies the source of this event as the debris trail left by Comet 109P/Swift-Tuttle. This comet orbits the sun every 133 years and leaves behind material that burns up upon hitting the atmosphere of Earth. The nucleus of this comet measures 16 miles wide.
Viewing requires no special equipment. Astronomers suggest heading away from city lights to avoid the interference of urban light pollution. Observers should face east and allow about 20 to 30 minutes for their vision to adjust to the darkness. A wide field of vision provides the best results for tracking meteors across the sky.