Perseid Meteor Shower To Peak Overnight:
Calling all space lovers and star gazers alike! The peak night for the annual Perseid Meteor Shower is here! Caused by the debris left by the Comet Swift-Tuttle, these meteors began streaking across the skies in late July and peak in the pre-dawn hours of Aug. 12.
When?
For southeastern Virginia and northeastern North Carolina the time for viewing the Perseid Meteor Shower will be between 2 a.m. and dawn. The moon will rise around midnight so it's brightness (and fullness) WILL affect the prime window to view this year. However, even though the moon will make visibility of the shower a tad lower, the number of meteors (nearly one every two minutes) should provide enough opportunities to view.
Weather conflicts?
Rain showers will be possible this evening but you shouldn't need your umbrella overnight. Leftover clouds from today's storms may interfere with this year's viewing but there should be enough "windows to the stars" to view the Perseid Meteors. Fog is likely near sunrise, especially inland, so the best viewing window for everyone looks to be between 2 and 4 a.m.
Tonight's Viewing Rating?
6/10 - the moon and clouds will make this years viewing a little less favorable than previous years.
Taking pics?
Send us what you see! Email your pictures to pics@wtkr.com!