Here Are The Best Times And Places To Watch The Perseid Meteor Shower In Idaho

One of the summer's most highly anticipated events is occurring in the upcoming days and you'll want to be sure not to miss it. The Perseid Meteor Shower is a favorite among astronomy enthusiasts and for good reason. This beloved annual event treats us to the stunning sight of hundreds of meteors soaring through the sky, and it's simply a magical thing to behold. Although the meteor shower technically takes place all month long, it's expected to be at its very best soon. Keep reading to check out the best times and places to view this astronomical event for yourself! This is one show that you don't want to skip.

The Perseid Meteor Shower is a well-loved event among stargazers. Known as one of the best meteor showers of the years, it makes for a fantastic way to spend a summer evening. It's expected to peak from August 11 through August 12, so you'll want to make plans to see it pronto.

The Perseids put on a spectacular show every year, and this year is looking no different. Known for boasting up to 60 shooting stars per hour, this particular meteor shower never fails to blow us away.

Unfortunately for this year, the full moon is expected to also be at its peak in the next few days. Although you'll still be able to see the shooting stars, the moon will significantly reduce visibility. However, don't let that stop you from seeing this fantastic natural phenomenon.

You'll have the best chance of seeing the most meteors if you plan to view them late at night or early in the morning on the days of August 11 and 12. The meteors will best be viewed after moonset and before sunrise, but you'll still be able to see them otherwise—just not as many.

It'll also help to set yourself up in the best environment for viewing meteors. Living in Idaho means we get to experience some super dark night skies which is absolutely perfect for an event like this. Pick a spot far away from artificial light, and be sure to give your eyes time to adjust the darkness (at least 20 minutes.)

No special equipment is necessary for seeing the Perseids. You'll be able to see them just fine if you're in the right spot. Some especially notable stargazing spots in Idaho include Bruneau Sand Dunes, Craters of the Moon, and the Hailey/Ketchum area. Although, there are plenty of remote spots throughout the state that are bound to do the trick.

Most of all, patience is key. It's impossible to predict exactly when a spurt of shooting stars will soar across the sky, but it's well worth the wait. The Perseid Meteor Shower is one of our favorite ways to spend a summer night, so be sure not to miss it.

Do you have plans to watch the Perseids this year? This is definitely one of our favorite parts of summer. Don't worry if you can't catch the meteors this year. There's an Idaho state park with an observatory that's perfect for stargazing all year long!