Watch the Peak of Two Meteor Showers Tonight
Two meteor showers – Delta Aquarids and Alpha Capricornids – reach their peak this evening and Tuesday morning. And with the moon only 6% full, a dark sky can be the perfect stage for a true meteor show.
None of these showers are particularly strong in themselves; Delta Aquarids are more visible in the Southern Hemisphere, while Alpha Capricornids only produce up to five meteors per hour. But two showers, peaking in the same night along with dark skies, bode well for the views. Together, showers can produce 20-25 meteors per hour.
The Perseid shower is also active today and is generally the most popular summer meteor shower in the Northern Hemisphere. However, this year it reaches its peak on August 12-13, just when the moon is almost full and illuminates the sky. However, the Perseids can add a little something to today’s show.
Meteor showers are best seen from midnight to dawn. No special equipment is required; just find an area with open air and little or no light pollution. Sit back or lie down for a wide view of the sky, let your eyes adjust to the darkness, and wait for the show.