2 meteor showers may bring up to 90 streaks of light per hour over Ontario this month

Summer nights are about to get a little brighter as two of the year’s most anticipated meteor showers return to southern Ontario in the coming weeks.

Up first are the Delta Aquariids, which originate from the Machholz Complex and are known for their steady activity rather than a sharp peak.

According to earthsky.org, the shower will be active from July 18 to Aug. 21, with peak activity expected around July 30.

The best viewing will take place after midnight through dawn in the days leading up to the peak. However, a full moon on July 29 could wash out fainter meteors, making the darker mornings before the full moon the best opportunity to view them.

Under ideal dark-sky conditions, observers can expect to see 15 to 20 meteors per hour. While the meteors are generally fainter than those in other annual showers, about five to 10 per cent leave glowing trails that linger briefly after passing through the atmosphere, earthsky.org notes on their website.

As the Delta Aquariids continue, the Perseids will begin putting on one of the year’s most awaited sky shows.

Originating from Comet 109P/Swift-Tuttle, the Perseids are active from July 14 through Sept. 1, with peak activity expected during the early morning hours of Aug. 12 and Aug. 13.

Unlike the Delta Aquariids, this year’s Perseids will benefit from excellent viewing conditions as a new moon on Aug. 12 provides darker skies for skywatchers.

Under ideal conditions, viewers may see up to 90 meteors per hour. The Perseids are also known for their bright, colourful meteors and long-lasting glowing trails, making them one of the most popular meteor showers of the year.

For the best chance of catching either meteor shower, head to a dark location away from city lights and allow your eyes about 20 to 30 minutes to adjust to the darkness before looking toward the night sky.

If you’re planning to watch, experts recommend bringing a reclining chair, dressing for cooler overnight temperatures and using a red flashlight if you need light, as it helps preserve your night vision.