The Perseids , also known as the Tears of San Lorenzo due to its proximity to the date in the saints, since San Lorenzo is celebrated on August 10, represents the most characteristic meteor shower of the year. This meteor shower brightens summer nights in the northern hemisphere. What will be the best days for your observation? Will there be a full moon or will it allow us to enjoy a great night show?
Although this meteor shower has been visible since mid-July, its peak of activity moves between August 9 and 15. Specifically, this year, according to data from the International Meteor Organization (IMO), the best days to observe the Perseids in Europe will be from August 12 to 13.
You will be able to contemplate the Perseids from July 12 to August 23, but the busiest days will be the early mornings of August 11, 12 and 13, and the most intense night par excellence, that of August 12-13 in the that we can see, in the best possible scenario, up to 110 meteors per hour.
What about the moon?
Unfortunately, the Moon will not be a good observing companion, since it enters the full phase on August 15, so on the days of greatest activity in Perseids the Moon will be 94.2% illuminated.
Despite the Moon, we should never miss the opportunity to see these meteor showers with the naked eye , since as it is a very active event, it is very likely that we will be able to see a few bright meteors in the dark sky.
Remember that no matter where you live on the planet, the Perseid meteor shower will likely produce the most meteors on the mornings of August 11, 12, and 13. And they can cross any area of the sky.
We will see the Perseids for about 10 days after the peak mornings of August 11, 12 and 13. Also, they tend to build up gradually, but fall quickly. Therefore, any morning, from late July to mid-August, will offer a portion of the show.
Origin of the Perseids
Made from small space debris from Comet Swift-Tuttle, the Perseids are named after the constellation Perseus. This is because the direction, or radiant, from which the rain appears to come in the sky is in the same direction as Perseus. The Perseids are usually a very succulent astronomical snack for astronomers and hobbyists, because most years at their peak, you can see 60 to 100 meteors an hour from a dark place.
You don’t need any special equipment or a lot of skill to see a meteor shower . What you really need is a clear sky, a lot of patience and, if you want, an application of the sky map related to meteor showers. Also, remember: locate a secluded viewing spot, away from city lights. Once on the site, our eyes can take between 15 and 20 minutes to get used to the dark; Dress appropriately for the night and make sure you are comfortable, especially if you plan to stay out for a long time. Bringing a blanket or hammock can be a great idea. Once you have found your chosen vantage point, lie down and look in the direction of the radiant. The show is about to begin.
