Title: Spectacular Perseid Meteor Shower Lights Up the Night Sky
By Tom Acres, technology reporter
Sunday 13 August 2023 04:51, UK
The annual Perseid meteor shower, one of the most anticipated celestial events, will peak tonight, offering stargazers a chance to witness a breathtaking light show. This meteor shower, which has been active since last month and will continue until 24th August, is expected to reach its peak from Saturday night into Sunday morning, with up to 100 shooting stars per hour.
The Perseids are known for their super bright fireballs and long-trailing meteors, making it an extraordinary spectacle for sky enthusiasts and beginners alike. To catch the best view, the Royal Observatory of Greenwich recommends staying up between midnight and 5.30am on Sunday, when the sky is darkest and the meteors will be at their highest position. However, even from sunset, the Perseid meteor shower can be observed as it is always above the horizon from the UK.
Experts suggest trying to spot the meteors when the moon is below the horizon or during its crescent phase to minimize natural light pollution. The darker the sky, the higher the chances of witnessing fainter meteors. Therefore, heading out to the countryside, a park, or a garden will provide a better viewing experience than the bustling streets of central London.
Unlike some rare comet sightings this year, the Perseid meteor shower doesn’t require any special equipment to observe. The naked eye is sufficient, although a comfortable reclining chair could enhance the viewing experience. The Royal Observatory of Greenwich also recommends giving your eyes at least 15 minutes to adjust to the darkness, which means avoiding the use of electronic devices.
Weather conditions can play a crucial role in enjoying this celestial spectacle. While southeastern, eastern, and central England are forecast to have clear nights, other regions may experience cloud cover. However, if weather conditions disappoint, don’t worry, as the shower will continue for over a week, giving everyone ample time to catch a glimpse.
So why do we see these mesmerizing meteors? Each meteor is only about the size of a grain of sand. However, when hurtling through the Earth’s atmosphere at a staggering speed of 130,000mph, they burn up at temperatures ranging from 1,648C (2,998.4F) to 5,537C (9,998.6F). The Perseid meteor shower occurs annually when the Earth passes through the debris left behind by the comet Swift-Tuttle. Originating from the constellation of Perseus, the meteor shower is named after the mythical Greek hero who conquered Medusa.
The Perseid meteor shower is an incredible display of nature’s beauty and an opportunity to marvel at the wonders of the universe. Don’t miss this chance to witness shooting stars painting the night sky with their brilliance.