Perseid meteor shower peaks tonight
This year, the Perseids peak on the night of August 12 and 13, and the Maldives is one of the best places in the world to watch them.
By
Azuhaar Abdul Azeez
The Perseid meteor shower is one of the most popular meteor showers of the year, and for good reason. They are produced every year when our planet ploughs through dusty debris left behind by the comet Swift-Tuttle. As for the name Perseid, it's because the meteors seem to originate from the constellation of Perseus, the Greek mythology hero who slayed Medusa.
It produces up to 100 meteors per hour at its peak, making it a truly spectacular sight. This year, the Perseids peak on the night of August 12 and 13, and the Maldives is one of the best places in the world to watch them.
That's because the Maldives is located on the equator, which means it gets dark early in the evening. This gives you plenty of time to find a dark spot, lie back on the beach, and enjoy the show.
The best time to watch the Perseids in the Maldives is between midnight and 2am. This is when the radiant, the point in the sky where the meteors appear to come from, is highest in the sky. You'll also want to make sure that there isn't too much light, as this can wash out the fainter meteors.
If you're looking for a truly unforgettable experience, consider watching the Perseids from a boat anywhere away from well lit islands. The combination of the starry sky, the crashing waves, and the gentle rocking of the boat will make for an unforgettable evening.
Here are some tips for maximizing your viewing experience:
-
Get away from city lights. The darker the sky, the better you'll be able to see the meteors.
-
Look up! The meteors will appear to come from the constellation Perseus, which is high in the northeastern sky after midnight.
-
Be patient. It can take some time to see a meteor, but if you're patient, you're sure to be rewarded.
-
Bring a friend or family member along for the ride. Sharing the experience with others makes it even more special.
-
Stargazing is therapeutic; it's like you're freed from all distracting thoughts, obligations and expectations when you contemplate the cosmos. There's nothing to do but stop, watch and reflect – which has plenty of benefits for our mental, physical and spiritual wellbeing.
The Perseids are a truly magical sight, and they're sure to leave you feeling amazed and awestruck. So for us lucky Maldivians, Atoll Times would like to remind you all to be sure to take some time to enjoy this incredible natural phenomenon.
