Perseid meteor shower peaks over UK skies

Stargazers in the UK are urged to find dark, open spots to catch a sky show as the Perseids reach their peak.

Perseid meteor shower peaks over UK skies

Stargazers across the UK saw the Perseid meteor shower at its peak in the early hours of Wednesday, with forecasts predicting about 150 meteors per hour at the height. Visibility depended on location and moonlight, and the horizon can hide some activity. In flat dark places observers could see around 100 meteors per hour.

The best viewing window runs late at night into the early morning. The radiant is above the UK horizon, so people can start watching after sunset, but moonlight and weather can wash out fainter meteors. The shower continues until August 24, with the peak around August 12 to 13. To improve chances, observers should seek dark spots, switch off bright lights, and give their eyes about 30 minutes to adapt. Forecasters warn that thunderstorms could disrupt viewing in northern areas, while clearer skies are expected in the south later in the week.

The article frames a classic science moment for the public. It invites readers to enjoy a natural event that requires little gear and invites community engagement. It also highlights a real limit: light pollution and weather.

The piece hints at a broader habit of looking up. It shows how modern life with screens and bright lights makes the night sky feel distant, and how a simple outdoor ritual can reconnect people with the cosmos.

Highlights

The night sky belongs to everyone when we step outside and look up.