It’s almost time for “the best meteor shower of the year”, the Perseids, to reach its peak, and we’ve rounded up the best places to watch the dazzling display light up the night sky.
The annual end-of-summer display usually takes place between the end of July to early August. According to the National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA), it is set to peak on Aug. 12.
The Perseids Meteor Shower
The Canadian Space Agency (CSA) describes it as “the best meteor shower of the year,” which can be seen over the Northern hemisphere.
During its peak, usually in the darkest hours after midnight, up to 50 to 80 meteors per hour can streak across the sky, according to the CSA. Pro tip: You’ll see the most meteors between moonset and dawn.
But what causes it to occur every year? Well, the CSA points the finger at the Comet 109P/Swift–Tuttle. “It orbits the sun, leaving a trail of dust and gravel in its path. Every summer, the Earth crosses the comet’s orbital path and passes through its trail of debris,” they explain.
“That debris becomes meteors as it disintegrates in our atmosphere and generates impressive flashes of light.”
It definitely sounds impressive, but seeing it in person is even better.
Where to watch the Perseids in Ontario
To get the best possible chance to see them, you’ll want to escape the city and head to one of Ontario’s dark sky preserves. Though it’s been a bit hazy due to wildfires, it may cause visibility issues, so take that into account when travelling.
Per Parks Canada, “Dark-Sky Preserves are protected areas that make a special commitment to protect and preserve the night, reducing or eliminating light pollution in all forms.”
That being said, many plants, wildlife, and insects depend on darkness to grow, so not only is protecting the dark sky important for us, but most importantly, for ecosystems.
Dark Sky Preserves
Bruce Peninsula National Park was first recognized in 2009 as a preserve for its captivating night skies. Fathom Five National Marine Park is another preserve to visit if you’re able to make the trip.
Point Pelee National Park, per the Royal Astronomical Society of Canada, is its designated Dark-Sky site. It was first recognized in 2006, and since then has become a top spot to stargaze.
Other Dark-Sky sites include Torrance Barrens Conservation Reserve, Manitoulin Eco Park, and Killarney Provincial Park, according to the Royal Astronomical Society of Canada.
To make your viewing adventure seamless, the CSA has listed a few tips to make it magical:
- If you need to use a flashlight, place a red filter over the bulb (a red balloon will do in a bind). White light is very blinding and may affect your night vision.
- Even though the Perseids occur in the summertime, dress warmly. The countryside could be a little cold.
- Bring a blanket or chair and kick back
- Be patient as it may take awhile before you see your first shooting star.
Now you’re set and ready to experience the night sky in all its glory.
It’s an experience you need to try at least once. Enjoy it!
Recent Posts:
Sun-drenched greenery has taken over this tree-lined boardwalk in Ontario
Air Transat to launch non-stop flights from Toronto to this lively South American city
