Perseid Meteor Shower 2025: Soon the August sky will turn into a shooting star wonderland; Here's when & where to watch
Perseid meteor shower
is one of the most spectacular annual sky events in the Northern Hemisphere. In August 2025, it will reach its peak on the night of 12–13 August. However, a large and bright Sturgeon Moon will also be shining that night, dimming some of the meteors' brilliance.
When Is the Best Time to Watch?
The Perseids will be at their best after astronomical twilight, which begins late in the evening. Normally, you could spot up to 75 meteors per hour in perfect dark-sky conditions. But with the moon glowing almost full, the numbers will be much lower this year.
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Why Is the Moon a Problem?
The full Sturgeon Moon arrives on 9 August, and by the 12th it will still be nearly full. It will rise soon after sunset and light up the southern sky, washing out the fainter meteors. That means you might not see as many 'shooting stars' as usual. Still, the Perseids are known for producing some very bright ones that can cut through the moonlight.
Tips for Catching the Meteors
Face away from the moon –
this year, that means looking towards the northeast where the
constellation Perseus
sits.
Find the darkest spot possible –
rural locations away from streetlights will help.
Be patient –
your eyes need 20–30 minutes to fully adjust to the dark.
The moon will take a low path across the southern sky in summer, which will help a little. And while the days after the peak will have less moonlight, meteor activity will also drop, so 12–13 August remains your best bet.
Where Do the Perseids Come From?
This spectacular display happens because Earth passes through dust and debris left behind by Comet Swift–Tuttle. Each tiny piece burns up in our atmosphere, creating the bright streaks we call meteors. The comet itself is a cosmic giant, about 26 km wide, and won't swing by again until 2125.
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So, while 2025's Perseid meteor shower might be dimmed by the moon, it's still worth heading out, lying back, and catching as many of those fiery streaks as you can. After all, it's not every night the sky decides to throw a glittering party.
FAQs
1. When will the Perseid meteor shower peak in 2025?
It will peak on the night of 12–13 August 2025.
2. Why will it be harder to see meteors this year?
A bright, almost full Sturgeon Moon will light up the sky and hide the fainter meteors.
3. How many meteors can I expect to see?
In perfect conditions, you might see 50–75 meteors per hour. This year, you may only spot a few bright ones each hour.
4. What time should I watch the Perseids?
The best viewing time is after astronomical twilight (late evening) until dawn.
5. Which direction should I look?
Face northeast, away from the moon, towards the constellation Perseus.
6. Do I need a telescope or binoculars?
No, the meteors are best viewed with the naked eye.
7. Where is the best place to watch?
Find a dark spot away from city lights, like rural fields or hilltops.
8. What causes the Perseid meteor shower?
It's caused by dust and debris left behind by Comet Swift–Tuttle burning up in Earth's atmosphere.
9. Will I still see meteors after 12–13 August?
Yes, but the number will drop each night after the peak.
10. How often does the Perseid meteor shower happen?
It happens every year in July and August, but the peak varies slightly in date.
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