Viewing the Perseid Meteor Shower

Meteors are small rocks orbiting our Sun that have entered Earth's atmosphere at such high speeds that they create short-lived streaks of light in the sky. Most meteors are caused by grain-of-sand-size particles. Larger in-falling space rocks can light up the entire sky as fireballs. When viewed from Earth these fireballs appear to us as shooting stars. The Perseid Meteor Shower is one of the most magnificent opportunities to view this amazing phenomenon. It happens every year from approximately mid-July to late August. The shower typically peaks between August 11th and 13th.

Join UNH Observatory Director and 4-H Astronomy Specialist, John Gianforte, to learn the best ways, days, and tips for viewing this amazing annual event.