This week is special because the peak times of two meteor showers, the Southern Delta Aquarids and the Alpha Capricornids, overlap, offering a spectacular display in the night sky.
Peak Times and Viewing Tips
Southern Delta Aquarids:
- Active Period: July 18 to August 21
- Peak: Night of July 29-30
- Best Viewing: Southern Hemisphere, constellation Aquarius
Alpha Capricornids:
- Active Period: July 7 to August 15
- Peak: Night of July 30-31
- Best Viewing: Both hemispheres, constellation Capricorn
Viewing Tips
According to Robert Lunsford, the fireball report coordinator of the American Meteor Society, the optimal time to view these showers is after midnight when the radiant points are high above the horizon.
However, moonlight can diminish visibility, acting like light pollution and washing out fainter meteors. During this period, the moon will be about 30% full, potentially obscuring some meteors.
Both the Southern Delta Aquarids and the Alpha Capricornids will seem to originate from the southern part of the sky. The Alpha Capricornids are known for their bright, slow-moving meteors that linger in the sky, while the Southern Delta Aquarids produce faster and fainter streaks.
Perseids: A Preview of What’s to Come
While the Aquarids and Capricornids are the stars of this week, don’t forget to glance towards the northern sky for the Perseids.
