Madison, WI – Get ready to witness one of the most spectacular celestial events of the year: the 2024 Perseids meteor shower. Peaking from the night of August 11 through the early hours of August 12, the Perseids are expected to produce up to 100 meteors per hour. The shower, originating from the debris trail of Comet Swift-Tuttle, has been active since mid-July, with sightings increasing steadily.
Despite a 53% waxing moon, the peak of the shower will coincide with the moon’s setting, providing optimal viewing conditions in areas free from light pollution. For the best experience, head to dark locations like Devil’s Lake State Park or Newport State Park. Remember to bring warm clothing, and consider attending a local meteor shower viewing event, such as those hosted by the University of Wisconsin-Madison Astronomy Department.
Patience is key, as the Perseids may appear sporadically. Gather with friends or family to enhance the experience and increase your chances of spotting meteors. With clear skies, you could witness one meteor every minute—don’t miss this chance to enjoy one of nature’s finest displays!
