Perseid meteor shower in UAE: When and where to see, inside the full details. world News
TL; Dr.
- Perseids are active on 17 July to 23 August, at its peak from August 12–13, but the moonlight can affect visibility.
- The best time to see in UAE: July 23-24 (New Moon) or August 16-26 (Post-Pick, Dark Skyse).
- Top Starging Spot:
Al avir desert Hatta, and other low-light desert areas.
If you live in the UAE and enjoy seeing the night sky, then it’s time. Perseid meteor shower, one of the most anticipated night-shy incidents of the year, is back. Active from July 17 to August 23, it brings light and bright streaks of rapidly growing meteors to the sky, often visible without any tool.Rapidly known for bright meteors, pursides may produce 100 ridges per hour during peak nights. These “shooting stars” comets come from the debris left behind by the Swift-Tatal, and they burn high in the Earth’s atmosphere, putting it in a natural light show.This year, the peak falls on August 12–13, but unfortunately, it coincides with almost full moon. This means that the sky will be bright compared to the ideal, which can make most meteors difficult to see. Nevertheless, there are other dates with deep sky where you can catch the show, especially in wide open deserts of the UAE.
What is Perseid Meteor Shower?
Every year, the earth comes through a dust mark released by the Cometu Swift-Tatal. This dust kills our environment at high speed (about 60 km/s) and illumates, which we call meteor.The shower gets its name from Persian Nakshatra, which is the point in the sky from where the meteors come. But you don’t have to find it, just look anywhere in the sky and be patient.
When to see in UAE
- July 23-24 (best viewing position): Just after Amavasya, therefore the sky will be the deepest. You will see less meteor than extreme, but visibility will be very clear.
- 12-13 August (official peak): This occurs when the most meteor (up to 75/h), but 84% of the full moon will wash many of them. Only bright streaks will appear.
- August 16-26 (late window): After the full moon, the sky becomes dark again. The meteor rate decreases slightly, but looks improves. If you remember the peak then a solid second chance.
Where is Stargase in UAE
You will need to get away from light pollution to see anything clearly. Here are some recommended places:
- Al Avir Desert (Dubai): Not far away from the city, but remote enough to the dark sky. A popular and easy-to-front starging spot.
- Hatta (2 hours from Dubai): mountain wind, desert surroundings and minimum light. Great for overnight trips and casual camps.
- Al Qua Desert (Abu Dhabi): one of the most dark places in UAE, and ideal for severe stargozing.
Additionally, the Dubai Astronomy Group will host a Stargaging event on August 12, which will be correct during purse paik. The event will include specialist guidance, telescope stations and desert camping vibes. Details are coming soon, check their site or Instagram for updates.
Tips to see: How to get the most
- Avoid city lights. Go out for a desert or low-light region.
- Let your eyes adjust. It takes 20-30 minutes for the whole night vision.
- Leave the gear. No telescope is needed, the meteor is best seen from your eyes.
- Use the phone. Screen ruin your night vision.
- Watch for at least an hour. Meteors often come in groups, stop in the middle.
Bonus: Seeing Milky Way on 26 July
If you are more than mere meteor, then there is an additional astronomical treatment this month. On Saturday, July 26, Dubai Astronomy Group Al Qua Desert, is hosting a Milky Way Gazing event in Abu Dhabi.This phenomenon is about carrying the Milky Way Galaxy to the full arch, which will be fully visible in the dark desert sky, the way the city is not light. Whether you are an experienced astrophotographer or just want to experience a cool night under the stars, this is a great chance to connect with the night sky.Will still be active during this time, so you can also catch some meteor.
Fasting
1. Do I need a telescope to see pierced?No, the meteor is best seen without any tool. Just lie down and look up.2. Can I see from my backyard or roof?Only if you are away from city lights. In most urban areas, light pollution will block your approach.3. What is the best time to see meteor?The best time is usually the best time after midnight, when the most meteor appears.
