When Is The Big Perseid Meteor Shower?

Story Published: Mar 13, 2008 at 1:13 PM PDT

Story Updated: Mar 13, 2008 at 1:13 PM PDT

By Steve Pool

SEATTLE - August is usually our best chance for clear nights, and with it comes our best chance for seeing one of the largest meteor showers of the year.

The Perseid Meteor Shower is set to peak during the pre-dawn hours of August 13th. At its peak around 4 a.m., you'd normally see about 100 "shooting stars" per hour. However, this year, the moon will be full, and its light will drown out most of the faint ones.

But you should still see some occasional streaks -- even if you go out around midnight. Best advice is to stand behind something that blocks the moon from your sight, like a tree or building.

And while you're out there, don't forget to take a peek at the brighter-than-usual Mars in the southeastern sky.

For More Information:

science.msfc.nasa.gov

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