The Perseid meteor shower, one of 2026’s top celestial events, begins in mid-July and peaks on the night of August 12 into the early hours of August 13. This year’s conditions are nearly perfect due to the peak coinciding with a new moon, creating dark skies ideal for spotting even faint meteors. Observers in rural, dark locations may see 50 meteors per hour, with rates potentially climbing to 60–100 meteors per hour under pristine skies. The best viewing occurs after midnight as Perseus rises higher. No equipment is needed—find a dark, open area, let your eyes adjust, and enjoy the show. https://www.accuweather.com/en/space-news/summers-best-meteor-shower-gets-underway/1912246