Perseid Meteor Shower

During the night of 12 to 13th August 2023 the annual Perseids meteor shower reaches its peak. This is caused by the Earth passing through the debris left by comet Swift-Tuttle. Meteors are the streaks of light caused by lumps of debris burning up in our upper atmosphere. Often called ‘shooting stars’. At its peak, in the early hours of the 13th, you may see around one every minute or so. The Perseids are renown for the occasional really bright meteors.

If it is clear, then the best way to see them is this…. Wrap up warm and find a spot away from all lights. The Dark Sky Discovery Site at Kelling Heath is ideal. You will need to spend a while looking up high so take a chair, or blanket and lie on the ground. Look high in the sky to the North East. If you are in the discovery area, then the North East is the direction towards the Village Square.

Get your eyes accustomed to the dark for about 30 minutes, (no white light whatsoever) and you will see not only the fainter meteors, but also the Milky Way. You will find after a while, that you actually don’t need a torch.

With thanks to Keith Venables, for the information.