Catch one of the year's most dazzling meteor showers peaking over Asia this August
Just one little bummer this year: the Perseids pretty much coincide with a bright, waning full moon, so moonlight could very well wash out the meteors. Nevertheless, if you're keen to head out into the night to try your luck, here's when, where, and how to catch the Perseid meteor shower in Asia in 2025.
What is the Perseid meteor shower?
The Perseid meteor shower comes from the Comet Swift-Tuttle, which was first discovered in 1862. It orbits around the Sun about once every 133 years, leaving a wake of dust and particles as it goes. On its own journey around the sun, the Earth passes through this trail, causing the comet's cosmic debris to collide with our atmosphere. As the debris burns up, it creates glowing streaks of light visible in the night sky, which is the meteor shower that we see.
When can you see the Perseid meteor shower?
The Perseid meteor shower is active from mid-July until late August, but will peak on the night of August 12, before dawn on August 13.
What time is best to see the Perseid meteor shower?
We recommend timing your meteor-gazing session between 3am to 6am – this is when the skies are the darkest and the shower is at its most intense.
The best places in Asia to watch the Perseid meteor shower
For the best chance of seeing the Perseid meteor shower, you need a place with dark skies and unobstructed views. Anywhere without tall buildings and trees or bright city lights should do, but if you're down to travel to chase some meteors, consider these magical dark sky reserves and remote stargazing spots in Asia.
The best ways to watch the Perseid meteor shower
Thankfully, you don't need any special equipment to see the meteor shower. All you have to do is find the darkest place you can, and settle in to allow 30 minutes for your eyes to adjust to the darkness. Locate the Perseus constellation, but don't stare directly at it. Instead, relax your gaze and take in the constellations around it – meteors further from their radiant are brighter and have longer trains.
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