The Perseid meteor shower is often misunderstood. Getty
The upcoming peak night of the annual Perseid meteor shower in 2023 is expected to be one of the most spectacular displays in recent years, as long as the skies are clear. You’ve probably already heard about the Perseids, as the media tends to hype up meteor showers. However, most reports lack expert advice and often mislead readers. Journalists and writers, in general, may not even recognize a “shooting star” if it appeared right in front of them. This lack of knowledge is common among people who make avoidable mistakes when searching for “shooting stars.” One major mistake is not knowing what a “shooting star” actually looks like. It is not a slow-moving, bright light in the distance, as that is typically a plane or satellite. A “shooting star” moves quickly, about 40 mph for a Perseid meteor, and is only visible for a split second. It is an exciting but fleeting sight! Here are ten more common errors beginners make when observing the Perseids:
1. Missing the Peak Night: The Perseid meteor shower occurs annually from July 14 to September 1 in 2023, but most people overlook the beginning and end. The best night to witness the shower is Saturday/Sunday, August 12/13, 2023. The peak of the Perseids lasts for many hours, so prioritize observing between 10:00 p.m. and 4:00 a.m., with 2:00 a.m. being the ideal time for the darkest skies and highest visibility of the meteor radiant point.
2. Not Getting to a Dark Sky Site: While it is possible to observe “shooting stars” in cities, the frequency is significantly lower due to light pollution. For the best experience, visit a dark sky site away from cities, where you can see dozens of meteors per hour. Darkness is crucial.
3. Thinking the Show Begins at Sunset: Many people mistakenly believe that meteor showers start immediately after sunset. However, it takes a few hours after midnight for the meteors to become more visible in the darker sky, especially when the radiant point is higher.
4. Turning up at a National Park on Peak Night: The Perseids are widely known among amateur astronomers, stargazers, and nature lovers. If you plan to visit a national park or campground on peak night, especially popular ones near cities, finding a spot will be challenging. It is advisable to book in advance and avoid brightly-lit areas.
5. Getting a Sore Neck: Staring straight up at the night sky for extended periods is physically straining. Bring a reclining lawn chair and a blanket to comfortably observe. Another option is to book a remote cottage or go glamping with an outdoor hot tub for both entertainment and meteor viewing.
6. Having Very High Expectations: Articles often exaggerate the number of meteors visible per hour during the peak. In reality, witnessing a couple of dozen meteors per hour in a dark and clear sky is already an exceptional result. Seeing 50 meteors per hour, based on ideal conditions, is highly unlikely. However, even a few dozen meteors in one night is a memorable experience.
7. Looking at a Smartphone: To have the best chance of seeing meteors, it is essential to have dark-adapted eyes. This requires avoiding exposure to bright lights, including smartphones. Looking at a phone screen will reset the dark adaptation process and distract you from the night sky.
8. Using a Telescope or Binoculars: To observe meteors effectively, it is crucial to have a wide view of the night sky. While telescopes and binoculars are associated with astronomy, they are counterproductive for meteor watching. Using them reduces the chances of seeing meteors.
9. Going to Sleep Too Early: Many people lose interest or fall asleep before the peak hour due to the lower meteor rates in the early hours of the night. It is recommended to stay awake, stay alert, and consume coffee for energy to witness the peak, which typically occurs after 2 a.m.
10. Trying to Photograph Them: Constantly adjusting cameras can distract from the experience of seeing “shooting stars.” Instead, position the camera on a tripod away from you and let it automatically capture multiple exposures while you sit back, relax, and enjoy the meteor show.
We wish you clear skies and unforgettable meteor sightings.
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Jessica Irvine is a tech enthusiast specializing in gadgets. From smart home devices to cutting-edge electronics, Jessica explores the world of consumer tech, offering readers comprehensive reviews, hands-on experiences, and expert insights into the coolest and most innovative gadgets on the market.
