The Perseid meteor shower has returned to the skies this summer, giving stargazers the chance to see one of the year’s most popular celestial displays. Known for its bright streaks of light and high number of visible meteors, the Perseids are a highlight of the annual stargazing calendar.
Planning to head outside and look for shooting stars? We’ve rounded up everything you need to know, including when the meteor shower will peak and the best ways to improve your chances of seeing it.
What is the Perseid meteor shower?
There’s a reason the Perseids are one of the most anticipated meteor showers of the year. The spectacular display is created by debris from comet 109P/Swift-Tuttle, which leaves behind a trail of particles as it travels through space on its long journey around the Sun, according to NASA. Earth passes through this trail every year, giving us the chance to see the fragments light up the atmosphere.
The glowing streaks we spot in the sky are created when these tiny pieces of rock and dust enter the Earth’s atmosphere at high speeds and burn up. The Perseids are also known for producing impressive fireballs, brighter, longer-lasting flashes caused by larger pieces of comet material entering the atmosphere, according to NASA.
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When is the Perseid meteor shower?
The Perseid meteor shower is already underway, with the shower active from July 17 until Aug. 24.
When will the Perseid meteor shower peak?
The Perseids will be visible throughout their active period, but the peak is expected on Aug. 12–13, according to NASA.
How to see the Perseid meteor shower
NASA recommends heading out after midnight and before dawn for the best chance of spotting the Perseids. For the clearest view, choose a dark spot away from city lights and give your eyes time to adjust to the darkness.
The good news for 2026 is that the peak is around the time of the New Moon, meaning there will be minimal moonlight to compete with the meteor shower.
