One of the most spectacular astronomical events of the year is almost here: the Perseid meteor shower!
The Perseids, named after the constellation Perseus from which they seem to radiate, can deliver between 50-75 meteors per hour and are also known for producing more enduring "fireballs."
What is the Perseid meteor shower?
The Perseid meteor shower is considered one of the most spectacular meteor showers to see in the Northern Hemisphere this summer. The Perseid constellation will be rising in the northeast after dark and can produce over 50 meteors an hour!
Will the Perseid meteor shower be visible in Southwest Florida?
The Perseid meteor shower will peak Sunday night, Aug. 11, into Monday, Aug. 12. A few showers and storms will linger near the coast Sunday evening with partly cloudy skies across southwest Florida, but it won't be a washout.
After sunset, storms will lose energy and start to fall apart, allowing for better visibility.
For the best chance to see shooting stars, head inland away from light pollution and wait until after the moon sets around midnight through the early morning before dawn.
Feel free to share pictures and videos with ABC 7 at newstips@abc-7.com .