Eyes to the skies: Perseid meteor shower to reach maximum activity on Aug. 12, 2026

The Perseid meteor shower is expected to reach its maximum activity around Wednesday, August 12, 2026, with peak rates of up to 140 meteors per hour under ideal circumstances, PAGASA said in its August Astronomical Diary.

According to PAGASA, the Perseid meteor shower is an annual meteor shower active from July 17 to August 24, and is best observed before dawn.

“The shower is best observed before dawn, when the radiant in the constellation Perseus is positioned highest above the horizon. Rising in the east at approximately 10:03 p.m., the radiant remains above the horizon until around 05:16 a.m.,” PAGASA said.

The agency noted that the best observing time is specifically between 5 a.m. and 6 a.m., or the moment the radiant reaches its greatest altitude and meteor activity is most favorable.

“The peak coincides closely with the New Moon, allowing for dark skies with minimal interference from moonlight,” PAGASA added.

PAGASA said observing meteor showers up in the sky is visible through the naked eye and does not need telescopes, binoculars, or other special equipment.

To maximize the viewing experience, PAGASA advises the public to choose a dark observation site away from city lights under clear and moonless sky conditions. — BAP, GMA News