Southern Delta Aquariids and Alpha Capricornids set to peak late July
The Southern Delta Aquariids will reach peak activity on July 28-29, followed by the Alpha Capricornids on July 30-31, offering observers chances to see up to 15 meteors per hour and bright fireballs respectively.
Two meteor showers are expected to peak between July 28 and July 31. The Southern Delta Aquariids, originating from comet 96P/Machholz, will be most active on the evenings of July 28 and 29, with rates of up to 15 meteors per hour under clear, dark conditions. Visibility may be reduced by the waxing gibbous Moon, and the shower is typically faint, though past outbursts in 1977 and 2003 suggest stronger displays are possible.
Observers are advised to allow about 30 minutes for eye adaptation and to view a wide portion of the sky, preferably from locations with minimal light pollution and at southern latitudes.
The Alpha Capricornids, linked to comet 169P/NEAT, will peak on July 30 and 31. While the shower produces fewer meteors—around five per hour—it is known for bright fireballs. It can be seen from both hemispheres, with optimal viewing after 10 p.m. and continuing until dawn.
"The best results come from clear, dark skies and giving your eyes time to adjust," said an astronomy expert.
Both showers are best observed without telescopes, allowing the naked eye to capture the full sky display.