Stargazers, mark your calendars for a celestial show. Two meteor showers will grace the skies this July. With no moonlight to interfere, the view will be perfect.
The Southern Delta Aquariids and Alpha Capricornids will peak together. This rare pairing will light up the night on 29–30 July. At least 25 meteors per hour are expected, say astronomers.
The event will be visible worldwide, with clearer views down south. Thanks to the moonless night, the skies will stay dark. That means better chances to spot bright shooting stars.
Double showers, double delight
The Southern Delta Aquariids are known for their quiet streaks. They come from Comet 96P/Machholz and appear each July. These meteors will offer about 20 flashes every hour.
Joining them are the Alpha Capricornids with five to ten meteors. Though fewer in number, they put on quite a show. They often appear as slow, bright fireballs in colour.
These showers happen as Earth crosses leftover space debris. The Alpha Capricornids trace back to Comet 169P/NEAT. It circles the Sun once every four years.
When and where to watch
Though both hemispheres will get a glimpse, the south wins. The constellations Aquarius and Capricornus rise higher there. Early morning before sunrise offers the best views.
City lights can spoil the show, so go rural. Find a dark, open spot and look southward. You won’t need binoculars, just patience and clear skies.
There’s a full week of activity around the peak night. The Southern Delta Aquariids remain strong until 31 July. So even if clouds roll in, all is not lost.
Whether you're an astronomy fan or just love the stars, this sky show promises to be worth the watch.
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