The Perseid meteor shower, one of the most famous annual sky shows, will peak this week.
Caused by Earth passing through debris from Comet Swift-Tuttle, the Perseids can usually deliver 50–100 meteors per hour.
This year, however, an 84% illuminated waning gibbous moon will brighten the sky, reducing visible meteors to about 10–20 per hour. The good news? The brightest meteors and spectacular fireballs will still be visible.
Can you see it from South Africa?
Yes, but with a twist. The Perseids are most active in the Northern Hemisphere, so South Africans will see fewer meteors. Still, if you’re in a dark-sky location such as the Northern Cape, the Karoo, or rural areas, you’ll have a decent shot.
Look towards the northeast, where the meteors appear to radiate from the constellation Perseus.
The peak night to view them is tonight, 13 August, from midnight to 05:00 or pre-dawn.
Viewing tips
- Find a dark spot: Get far from streetlights and city glow.
- Face northeast: That’s where meteors will appear to originate.
- Give your eyes time to adjust: 20–30 minutes to fully adapt to darkness.
- Be patient: Meteors often come in bursts; stick around for at least an hour.
Have you seen the Perseid meteor shower before?
Let us know by leaving a comment below, or send a WhatsApp to 060 011 021 1
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