Between the recent rare kite and 4th of July penumbral eclipseIt’s been a great few weeks for astronomy. But there is even more to see in the night sky, which comes in the form of 42-day meteor shower. While it started on July 12, the meteor shower will be most visible this week on July 28 and 29, and will last until August 23. Here is what you need to know about this astronomical event.
How to see the meteor shower
Although Delta Aquariid rain favors the southern hemisphere, it is also visible from the northern midlatitudes, according to EarthSky. Like other meteor showers, this one is best seen after midnight and before sunrise (this applies to time zones around the world). So, for this one, your best option is between midnight and dawn on July 28 and 29. Because the moon makes it much harder to see the meteor shower, if you don’t catch it during this week’s peak, NASA suggests Trying again August 11-13.
But you can’t just walk outside and Immediately see the meteorites, it takes a little time and patience. This is what NASA recommends you do:
Find an area away from the city or street lights. Come prepared with a sleeping bag, blanket, or lawn chair. Lie on your back and look up, observing as much of the sky as possible. Looking halfway between the horizon and the zenith, and 45 degrees from the constellation Aquarius, will improve your chances of seeing the Delta Aquariids. In less than 30 minutes in the dark, your eyes will adapt and you will begin to see meteors. Please be patient – the show will last until dawn so you have plenty of time to take a look.
G / O Media may receive a commission
So choose a night (ideally this week) without rain, grab a blanket and go outside to catch this natural phenomenon.
.
