LEXINGTON, Ky. (FOX 56) — Kentucky stargazers will have a prime opportunity to see the Perseid meteor shower as debris from Comet Swift-Tuttle passes through Earth’s atmosphere, lighting up the night sky.
According to the American Meteor Society (AMS), the Perseids are active from July 17 to Aug. 24, but the prime range of activity is around Aug. 12 and 13. This, coupled with a new moon set for Wednesday night, has made Lexington an excellent spot to view the celestial phenomenon.
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What is the Perseid meteor shower?
Illuminating the night sky near the prominent constellation of the mythological hero Perseus, the Perseids are considered one of the most popular meteor showers because they occur during warm August nights, according to the AMS. The annual meteor shower occurs when Earth passes through debris left behind by Comet Swift-Tuttle, causing the particles to burn up in Earth’s atmosphere and produce streaks of light in the sky.
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When to watch for the Perseids in Lexington
NASA officials said that the best time to view the Perseids in the Northern Hemisphere was around 1 a.m. or during pre-dawn hours, though the meteors can sometimes be seen as early as 10 p.m.
At 9 p.m. on Wednesday, the Raven Run Nature Sanctuary is inviting community members to view the night sky during the annual shower. Organizers said Wednesday night’s gathering depends on weather conditions, but no registration is required to attend…