LEXINGTON PARK, Md. — The Perseid meteor shower, one of the best and brightest celestial shows that happens every year in the Northern Hemisphere, is set to see its peak nights on Aug. 11 to 12. The meteor shower in the past has brought upwards of 100 visible meteorites per hour during August.
What’s up in the night sky this August? 🔭
On Aug. 9, Mars appears close to the Moon before dawn. Look toward the south, high in the sky, and you can’t miss it. On Aug. 12, catch the peak of the annual Perseid meteor shower. When & where to look up: https://t.co/gShGniqN1q pic.twitter.com/5buykpoDLh
— NASA (@NASA) August 8, 2020
While weather forecasts and the third-quarter moon could have an impact on visibility, a fair portion of Southern Maryland currently falls into a region that could be considered optimal visibility.
Weather forecasts for the area are currently listed at partly cloudy until 9 p.m., and then mostly clear for most of the evening.
The moon which is currently in the mid-waning stages will still be putting off enough light to potentially limit the number of visible meteors. Fortunately, there are still expected to be plenty visible throughout the peak nights.
Rich in bright meteors and fireballs, the Perseids meteor shower is one of the best of the year and it peaks on Aug. 11-12. Here are tips on how to watch it: https://t.co/VfRgb1zVrX
📷 : @nasahqphoto pic.twitter.com/Td6bcZ7cTa
— NASA (@NASA) August 10, 2020
For best viewing conditions, it is recommended to find a dark spot outdoors that is distanced from potential light or light pollution if possible. There is no single spot to look in the sky, as fireballs will be coming down across the whole country.
If Tuesday’s weather ends up being a bust, Wednesday is still considered a peak night, and you can expect some visible stragglers on Thursday.
Contact Zach at zach.hill@thebaynet.com
