Every year, the spectacle lights up the eyes of young and old alike: the Perseids make their return to the sky this summer, and dozens of shooting stars are expected every hour at their peak. From July 17 onwards, a great shower ofshooting stars will light up summer nights in France until August 24. Pay particular attention on August 12 and 13, as this is precisely when the greatest concentration of stars will be recorded!
What are the Perseids?
The Perseids are debris from comet Swift-Tuttle, which enter the Earth’s atmosphere at high speed, creating luminous trails commonly known as shooting stars. This phenomenon is particularly visible from the northern hemisphere, where summer conditions offer clear nights conducive to observation. To take full advantage of this spectacle, we recommend moving away from urban areas to minimize light pollution.
Choose a dark spot, away from artificial lighting, and look to the northeast, where the constellation Perseus is located. The shooting stars will be visible to the naked eye, with no need for telescopes or binoculars. The best time to observe the Perseids is after midnight, when the constellation Perseus is clearly visible in the sky. Sit back, let your eyes adjust to the darkness, and prepare to see up to 100 meteors per hour at peak activity. If you miss the peak, don’t worry: the Perseids remain visible for several nights before and after this date.
The Perseids are one of the most eagerly awaited meteor showers of the year, offering an unforgettable spectacle for astronomy enthusiasts and the curious alike. Make a wish for every shooting star you see!
The Perseids – July 17 to August 24, 2024, peak viewing on August 12 and 13
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