Bright Meteors Will Streak Across The Northern California Sky In The Beloved Annual Perseid Meteor Shower In August

Just last month we were all talking about the recently discovered Comet NEOWISE and how you could see it. We have officially said goodbye to the comet since it's started moving further away from Earth, but that doesn't mean there aren't still some cool things in store for night sky observers! After all, the beloved Perseid meteor shower which takes place every August is coming up, and it's definitely a sight you'll want to see.

The Perseid meteor shower is a highly-anticipated event among night sky observers for several reasons. Not only does it conveniently take place across several summer evenings, but it's notably bright meteors always seem to put on a fantastic show.

For 2020, the Perseid meteor shower is expected to peak on August 11, 12, and 13. During its peak, observers can witness an incredible display of up to 50 Perseid meteors per hour.

The good news is that Perseid meteors are notably bright and easy to spot. The bad news is the moon will still be in its last quarter phase and may impede viewing conditions. Still, a large percentage of meteors should be bright enough to see despite the moonlight.

Seeing the Perseid meteor shower during its peak ensures optimal viewing conditions, but it's definitely not the only time you can see this epic display. In fact, the Perseids have been gracing our night skies since July 17, and they'll continue to be visible for around 10 days after their peak.

Best of all, you don't have to stay up incredibly late to spot the Perseids. In the Northern Hemisphere, you should be able to see meteors starting to fly around mid-to-late evening. However, most meteors will be visible during the predawn hours of that mid-August peak.

As usual, you won't need any special equipment to view the Perseids. All you need is a dark, wide-open night sky and your own pair of eyeballs—although, a pair of binoculars can help. If you're having trouble spotting them, simply seek out the constellation Perseus where the meteors branch from.

Witnessing the Perseids take over the dark sky is a treasured summer pastime for many. Don't miss out on one of the greatest meteor showers of the year and start making plans now to see this stellar phenomenon for yourself!

Are you excited for this year's display of Perseid meteors? Check out this community observatory in Northern California for one of the best places to view the upcoming meteor shower!