The Earth is making its annual trip through the dusty remains of Comet 109P/Swift-Tuttle, and on the night of August 12, night gazers will see a spectacular display.
The planet started moving through the debris field in mid-July and won't move past it until September 1, but that evening the Perseid Meteor Shower will be at its peak.
Comet 109P/Swift-Tuttle is a 26 km wide mountain of ice, dust and gravel. It made its last appearance in 1992 and won't return until 2125.
Earth-bound spectators could see an encore on the night of August 13 between 9 p.m. and 10:45 p.m.
Astronomer Gary Boyle said at its peak, those watching will see 60 to 80 meteors an hour dashing through the sky at 59 km/second. A waning crescent moon should not interfere with viewing, but the best place to watch is away from city lights.
