You can catch the Perseid Meteor Shower tonight. Here's how
The Perseids occur every August when Earth passes through debris left by comet 109P/Swift-Tuttle. As these tiny fragments hit the atmosphere at speeds up to 59 kilometres per second, they burn brightly, creating short-lived trails in the sky
The Perseid meteor shower will reach its peak on the nights of 12 and 13 August, offering a dazzling display of shooting stars despite interference from a bright moon.
Bite-Sized: How to see the Perseid meteor shower
According to space.com, the 2025 shower coincides with an 86%-lit waning gibbous moon, meaning only the brightest meteors and occasional fireballs will stand out.
"The best time to spot Perseids will be in the predawn hours of 13 August, when up to 100 shooting stars per hour would be visible under ideal conditions," the outlet reported, though many will be hidden in the moon's glare.
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Why it happens
The Perseids occur every August when Earth passes through debris left by comet 109P/Swift-Tuttle. As these tiny fragments hit the atmosphere at speeds up to 59 kilometres per second, they burn brightly, creating short-lived trails in the sky.
Best viewing spots in Bangladesh
Dark skies are key. Outside Dhaka, ideal locations include Cox's Bazar's hilly outskirts, Saint Martin's Island, Bandarban's Ruma or Thanchi, and Lawachara National Park in Sylhet.
Village edges or riverbanks with minimal lighting can also work.
Viewing tips
Experts advise giving eyes 20 minutes to adjust to darkness and avoiding bright torches. A mat or reclining chair helps for comfortable sky-gazing.
