Perseid meteor shower to peak over Cyprus with optimal visibility

The annual Perseid meteor shower is set to reach its peak activity over Cyprus during the night of August 12 into the early hours of August 13. While the phenomenon occurs from July 17 until August 24 as Earth passes through the debris trail of comet 109P/Swift-Tuttle, the highest density of meteors is expected during this window. Particles will enter the atmosphere at approximately 59 kilometers per second, creating the characteristic "shooting star" light streaks.

Astronomers, including astrophysicist Chrysanthos Fakas and the Cyprus Astronomy Organisation, advise that conditions this year are particularly favorable due to the occurrence of a new moon, which ensures a dark sky. Observers are encouraged to look toward the constellation Perseus in the north-eastern sky, ideally after 11:00 PM, to achieve the best view away from city lights. Although a total solar eclipse is also scheduled for August 12, it will not be visible from Cyprus. The next full moon, known as the sturgeon moon, is expected to occur on August 28.