Every year, meteor showers pass through the Earth's atmosphere, allowing us to admire shooting stars in great numbers several times a year. This August sees the most beautiful meteor shower of the year, the Perseids. From July 17 to August 24, 2024, these stars will light up France, and the weather should be just right, in the middle of summer! It's the best time of year to observe the shooting stars, with clear skies and a cool breeze after the heat of the day.
The peak of activity this year is expected on the night of August 12-13, from midnight onwards, during which you'll be able to catch a glimpse of a shooting star every minute or so! Nearly a hundred meteors are expected per hour, making this the most intense shower of the year. Unlike last year, when the Moon and its beautiful light didn't interfere with our visibility, this year it will be present and may interfere slightly.
As far as possible, try to position yourself towards the northeast and the constellation Perseus, where the meteors originate, at the bottom of the W formed by the constellation Cassiopeia. They come from comet 109/Swift-Tuttle, which takes 133 years to circle the Sun. Don't hesitate to observe them outside the peak - they're out in force!
The next big event will be the Geminids in December. And don't forget to make a wish!
Astronomy: the best places to see shooting stars in Paris and the Île-de-France region
Numerous shooting star nights occur throughout the year. These stars can be admired if the weather allows it, in places where pollution is less. But where to find these rare pearls in Paris and Ile-de-France? [Read more]
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Astronomy: the best places to see shooting stars in Paris and the Île-de-France region
