Observe the meteor shower Perseids this week

• The peak of the meteor shower Perseids is expected on September 12-13.
• The best observations are made in the dark, far from city lights.
• The comet 109P/Swift-Tuttle, the source of the Perseids, last passed close to Earth about 30 years ago.

This week, the peak moment of the meteor shower Perseids will occur. This meteor shower, which lasts from mid-July, will reach its peak on the night of September 12 to 13. The Perseids got their name from the constellation Perseus, from where they appear to emanate.

The main reason for this event is the debris of the comet 109P/Swift-Tuttle, which burns up in the Earth's atmosphere. According to estimates, this year it is possible to see up to 75 "falling stars" per hour, although the brightness of the moon may reduce their visibility.

Astronomers recommend observing the meteors in the dark, far from city lights. The best time for observation will be late evening when it is still dark, but it is also worth paying attention to the time before the moon rises. It is best to look for meteors in the direction of the constellation Perseus.

The comet 109P/Swift-Tuttle, which has a diameter of 26 km, last passed through the inner part of the solar system in 1992. Its next close encounter with Earth is predicted for the year 2126.

Astronomy professors advise to observe the meteor shower in the company of friends and to take their time to adapt to the darkness. It is important to be ready for the fact that meteors may appear for a short time.

Tags: Technology/Space