Perseid meteor shower: When, where and how to watch
SAN DIEGO (FOX 5/KUSI) -- The strongest meteor shower of the year is expected to peak this week, bringing bright, long streaks of light across the night sky.
- Video above by Nexstar Media Wire explains the difference between a meteoroid, meteor and meteorite
The Perseids bring about 50 to 100 meteors per hour, according to NASA. The shower often brings fireballs that last longer than an average meteor streak.
What creates the Perseid meteor shower?
Meteors originate from particles left over from comets and broken asteroids that leave a debris trail as they travel around the sun.
The particles that come together to create the Perseid meteor shower are believed to have originated from comet 109P/Swift-Tuttle, which takes 133 years to orbit once around the Sun.
When to watch
The meteor shower is expected to reach its peak Tuesday through Wednesday, although it has been active since July 17.
It might be possible to view meteors as early as 10 p.m., according to NASA.
Where to watch
The meteor shower is best viewed in the Northern Hemisphere before dawn from places without light pollution. The best places to watch the Perseids are from "dark sky places," including Anza-Borrego Desert State Park, Borrego Springs and the town of Julian in east San Diego County. A full map of dark sky places can be found on DarkSky.org.
How to watch
To watch the Perseids, simply look up into the sky on a clear night, away from light pollution. A darker sky means a higher chance of seeing more meteors.
Light pollution comes from parking lots, sports arenas, street lights and other human-related activity. NASA recommends being at least 20 to 30 miles from city limits for an optimal viewing experience.
