Southern Delta Aquariid and Perseid Meteor Showers to Light Up July and August Skies

Two major meteor showers, the Southern Delta Aquariids and the Perseids, will be active in the Northern Hemisphere this summer. The Southern Delta Aquariids are set to appear from July 18 to August 12, peaking on July 29 and 30, according to the American Meteor Society. Observers can expect to see up to 15-20 meteors per hour under dark skies by looking south. This shower originates from Comet 96P/Machholz, which was discovered in 1986 and is known for leaving a trail of debris as it orbits the sun.

The Perseid meteor shower, considered one of the most impressive annual displays, will be visible from July 17 to August 23, with its peak on August 12 and 13. However, the brightness of the waning gibbous moon may reduce visibility during the peak. The best viewing times are just before dawn, when the radiant point in the constellation Perseus is highest in the sky. In rural areas, viewers may see between 50 and 75 meteors per hour, as reported by the American Meteor Society. The Perseids are produced by debris from Comet Swift-Tuttle, discovered in 1862 by astronomers Lewis Swift and Horace Tuttle.

For optimal meteor shower viewing, experts recommend finding a location away from city lights, allowing 15 to 20 minutes for eyes to adjust to the darkness, and looking toward the relevant constellations—south for the Southern Delta Aquariids and northeast toward Perseus for the Perseids. Bringing blankets or chairs and dressing appropriately for the weather can also enhance the experience.