Spectacular Meteor Shower Coincides with Rare Planet Alignment

The celestial show that is the Perseids meteor shower is set to peak tonight as with a rate of about 40 meteors per hour. Meanwhile, a rare tight planet alignment is also taking place. The celestial fireworks will peak Thursday night as sky watchers everywhere prepare for a fantastic display.

Across the Northern Hemisphere, the best time to watch the spectacle will be in the pre-dawn hours local time on Friday. If weather permits, sky watchers will be able to see a shooting star about every minute or so.

The only factors that could possibly put a damper on the display is bad weather or very bright moonlight. However this year the moon will not be a factor as it will be a thin crescent.

Astronomers are expecting quite a show as the Perseids' characteristic fireballs and exploding meteors have already been spotted. Space.com points out that this Perseids' event is turning out to be particularly interesting because there have been more and more sighting of fireballs.

Another factor making this year's Perseids show quite spectacular is a rare planet alignment that is taking place. Venus, Mars, and Saturn are clustering up tonight and Friday night with a crescent moon. Anyone with clear skies will be able to see them as soon as the sun goes down. Additionally, Jupiter will be visible in the pre-dawn hours as well.

Sources:
Space.com

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