If the weather is just right, cloudless, you just might be able to see meteors streaking through the Michigan skies between now and early August.

The Perseid Meteor shower is back, and if you can find the right place to watch it, you'll have a glorious time.

Clay Banks on Unsplash
Clay Banks on Unsplash
Clay Banks on Unsplash

The peak viewing will happen about August 12 and 13, with a new moon to allow for a super dark sky, but you don't have to wait because it is beginning now.

WHAT EXACTLY IS A METEOR SHOWER?

In an article from the website Freep.com;

"Meteor showers occur when the Earth passes through dusty debris trails left by comets and broken asteroid bits as they orbit the sun, NASA says. The debris collides with Earth's atmosphere at high speed and disintegrates, creating fiery and colorful streaks in the sky."

WHEN IS BEST TIME TO WATCH?

A good  time to view the meteor shower is obviously after dark, 10 or 11 p.m., but the best time is predawn.

Austin Human on Unsplash
Austin Human on Unsplash
Austin Human on Unsplash

👇 BELOW: CHECK OUT LAST YEARS METEOR SHOWER IN MICHIGAN 👇

You do have to find an open spot, away from city lights, where it is very dark. That is tough to do around here, but try to pick a place out of the city where you can safely gaze up into the sky.

Theodore Roosevelt Presidential Library/2284701037
Theodore Roosevelt Presidential Library/2284701037
Theodore Roosevelt Presidential Library/2284701037

Michigan does have six dark sky state parks, but none are around here, You could travel to Mackinac City, or Alpena and other locations, but that's not exactly practical.

The website, Space.com recommends for best viewing:

  • Allow about 30 minutes to let your eyes adjust to the dark.
  • Bring a deck chair or reclining chair to sit comfortably as you watch the meteors.
  • Select an open viewing area for an unobstructed look at the sky.
  • Avoid looking at phones or bright lights.
  • Keep your eyes up on the sky to catch fast meteors, visible for a second or two as they whizz through the sky.
  • Dress comfortably, warm for cold nights and bring a blanket.
  • Keep a hot drink, water and snacks and bug spray with you.

Have fun!

Michigan's 2025 Meteor Showers

Throughout the year, Michigan experiences a guaranteed ~10 meteor showers that make for some exciting views while you're sitting around the campfire. Here's when you can expect to see them.
Information via NASA and Michigan.gov

Gallery Credit: Tommy McNeill

 

More From 97.9 WGRD