The annual Perseid meteor shower is set to peak overnight on August 12-13, following the solar eclipse visible across the UK on Wednesday evening. The Royal Astronomical Society says the display is usually one of the most spectacular of the year and could be visible across the UK if skies are clear.
Peak viewing times
The ideal viewing time for the Perseids is between midnight and 5.30am on Thursday morning, according to PA. Some viewers should be able to see meteors as soon as the sun sets, the society adds.
What causes the shower
The Perseids occur when the Earth hits a trail of debris from the Swift-Tuttle comet every summer. The tiny meteoroids burn up as they hit the Earth’s atmosphere at around 36 miles per second, producing a shooting stream of light. The shower is named because the meteors appear to originate from the constellation of Perseus.
Viewing advice and forecast
The society advises staying away from artificial light and built-up areas for the best chance of viewing, though no special equipment is needed. The shower will remain active until August 24. The Met Office forecasts clear skies for much of the UK from Wednesday evening into the early hours of Thursday.
Those planning to watch the solar eclipse are reminded to wear proper eclipse glasses, as sunglasses are not sufficiently safe.
