2023-08-10 18:31:45
Rare Perseid Meteor Shower Lights Up Weekend Sky
If you step outside on one of the weekend nights and look at the sky, you might catch a glimpse of the Perseid Meteor Shower, an extremely rare event. The best time to view the meteor shower is expected to be the night between Saturday and Sunday, but even if you have your Saturday night meal in the yard or on the balcony, you will likely see glowing chevals in the night sky.
The Perseid Meteor Shower is actually a stream of solid fragments originating from the Swift-Tuttle comet. These fragments pass near Earth’s orbit since the end of July, and as they decay in the atmosphere at an altitude of 100 km, they leave behind glowing marks and long trails, often mistaken as “shooting stars.”
The peak of the meteor shower is well defined and will occur on the night between Saturday and Sunday (August 12-13). It is recommended to watch from 22:00 until dawn during this time window. Observers can expect a rate of up to 100 meteors per hour, although some may be faint. On average, between 50 and 75 meteors per hour will likely be visible. The meteor shower can also be observed on Saturday night (August 11), but the expected rate is significantly lower.
To enjoy a clear view of the meteor shower, it is advised to stay away from city centers and areas with high light pollution, such as the coastal plain. Forests and regulated parking lots, where overnight stays are permitted, are recommended. Special events will be held at Mitzpe Ramon and Biruchem, offering optimal observation opportunities for the whole family, along with tutorials and explanations.
For those who prefer to stay closer to home, Mount Pilots in the Jerusalem mountains, the Carmel forests, the Gilboa, and other relatively dark places are suitable viewing locations.
It is important to note that it takes about half an hour for the eyes to adjust to the darkness, so arriving early is advised. Various applications can be used to help identify constellations. This year, optimal viewing conditions exist as the moon sets in the northwest direction at 17:00.
The meteors will appear to emerge from the northeast but can also surprise observers by arriving from the south or passing right above. The Perseus group, from which the meteors are seen coming, rises over the northeastern horizon after 21:00 in Israel and can be found near the Cassiopeia group.
No special optical equipment is needed to view the meteors, as they can be seen with the naked eye. However, bringing a comfortable chair or mat, warm clothing, patience, and a positive attitude is recommended.
Don’t miss out on this rare celestial event – venture outdoors and witness the mesmerizing Perseid Meteor Shower lighting up the night sky this weekend!
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