The newest phenomenon taking over the night sky? The Delta Aquariids, one of 3 currently active showers.
Though the meteor shower will not reach its climax for a few more days, it is presently visible to stargazers who wish to capture an early peek. The Delta Aquariids, which will release shooting stars up until August 21, is highest around 2 a.m. and most affordable by dawn.
The shower is best seen in the southern tropics, but it can be spotted by those residing in lower elevations on the northern hemisphere. Under ideal conditions, the Delta Aquariids can produce 15 to 30 meteors per hour. During the shower’s peak, the full Sturgeon Moon (the second supermoon of summer season) will appear brighter than normal, making the fireballs less visible.
But don’t let that get in the way of your stargazing. The Delta Aquariids will be joined by two other meteor showers– the Perseids and the Alpha Capricornids. Together, the trio will put on a magnificent show.
The Perseids are considered to be the most magnificent meteor shower of the year– launching up to 100 shooting stars per hour. The remarkable shower is finest viewed on the northern hemisphere.
All 3 meteor showers are currently active and can be viewed when the sky is dark. For optimum viewing, travel to an area far from city lights and excess air pollution. Get to your viewing location early and offer your eyes about 30 minutes to adjust to the dark.
