Meteor Shower to Streak Across Pennsylvania Sky This Week
An otherworldly show is about to light up the night sky over Pennsylvania. The Delta Aquariids meteor shower is expected to peak this week, offering skywatchers a chance to see up to 20 meteors per hour.
While the shower is active from July 12 to August 23, the best time to catch the show is during the peak nights of July 28 and 29. During these nights, the moon will be in its new phase, meaning skies will be dark and ideal for meteor viewing.
The Delta Aquariids are known for their bright, fast-moving meteors. They are produced by debris from comet 96P/Machholz, which orbits the sun every five years. As the comet approaches the sun, it sheds dust and gas, which creates the meteor shower when it interacts with Earth's atmosphere.
To catch a glimpse of the meteor shower, find a location with clear, dark skies. Lie down on a blanket or chair and look up towards the constellation Aquarius, which is located in the southeastern sky. Meteors will appear to radiate from this point, but they can be seen anywhere in the sky.
The Delta Aquariids are one of the most reliable meteor showers of the year, so don't miss this chance to witness a celestial spectacle.
Here are some tips for meteor shower viewing:
- Find a location with dark skies away from city lights.
- Allow your eyes to adjust to the darkness for at least 30 minutes before watching.
- Lie down on a blanket or chair and relax.
- Look up towards the constellation Aquarius and be patient.
- Meteors can appear anywhere in the sky, so don't focus on one spot.
