Known as the fireball champion, the annual Perseid meteor shower is a must see event for Canadians.
Experts are predicting tonight is the best night to try and catch these shooting stars.
“On average we’ll see one or two a minute,” said Dan Furgason, Physics and Astronomy Department at the University of Lethbridge. “The best time to watch will be after midnight, probably until about three or four a.m.”
Astronomers say you should be able to see anywhere from 50 to 75 meteors an hour, which appear like falling stars. The Perseids are a product of Earth passing through debris left behind from the Swift-Tuttle comet.
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It’s not just a marvel for experts. Local astronomy clubs agree the Perseids aren’t to be missed.
“This is one of the major meteor shows of the year. It’s like fireworks,” said Lethbridge Astronomy Club member Rena Woss.
All experts agree that the best place to view the meteor showers is dark, rural areas, and the best part for stargazers, you don’t need a telescope to catch the action.
Some Canadians may have already caught the light show, Waterton National Parks hosted a stargazing event on the weekend.
“We’re getting a really positive turnout and people seem to be really interested,” said Christy Gustavison with Parks Canada. “They want to take a look at some of the features that you might not see in your backyard.”
All you need is a spot away from city lights to enjoy the view.
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