Night sky magic in Malta! The Perseids meteor shower is set to reach its peak in the coming days
Also known as The Tears of St Lawrence, the Perseids promise a celestial spectacle.
Get ready for a breathtaking cosmic display as the world's most anticipated meteor shower, the Perseids takes centre stage in the early hours of today, Monday 12th August and, tomorrow Tuesday 13th August.
Romantically known as The Tears of St Lawrence (d-Dmugh ta’ San Lawrenz), according to the popular weather page, Maltese Islands Weather, this year's viewing conditions are particularly favourable due to the moon being in a Waxing Gibbous stage, meaning that the sky is largely dark after midnight.
With videos already circulating on social media this weekend, this annual event promises an awe-inspiring spectacle. Known for its exceptional activity, the Perseids can treat stargazers to a dazzling sight of up to 80 meteors per hour.
If you want to make the most of this celestial phenomenon, venture away from urban lights to rural areas with minimal light pollution. Settle in for a few hours under the stars, giving your eyes about 30 minutes to fully adapt to the darkness. Patience is key, as the longer you wait, the more meteors you'll witness streaking across the heavens.
These luminous meteors will emanate from the Perseus constellation, which graces the northeastern part of the night sky. For optimal observation, cast your gaze overhead. These meteors originate from comet debris that heats up upon entering Earth's atmosphere, creating brilliant bursts of light as they hurtle through the sky at a staggering speed of 59 km per second.
While in space, these remnants are referred to as meteoroids, but upon entering our atmosphere, they transform into the amazing meteors that capture our imagination.
The best places to view the Perseids on the Maltese Islands include Fawwara (limits of Siggiewi), Miġra Ferħa, Kunċizzjoni, Fomm ir-Riħ, Baħrija, Dingli Cliffs, the area of the Red Tower (limits of Mellieha) and Ta' Ċenċ and Dwejra in Gozo, due to lower levels of light pollution.
So, grab a blanket, head to the countryside, and let the Perseids shower you with celestial wonder.