It’s the most wonderful time of the year… if you’re a stargazer anyway. That’s because the Perseid meteor shower 2024 season has officially begun. And though we can’t expect peak conditions until August, it’s still a great time to start planning. After all, you’ll need to find a spot much darker than any afforded by the sprawling Greater Los Angeles area. 

What Makes the Perseid Meteor Shower Such a Big Deal?

Photo credit: John Fowler

The Perseid meteor shower has been happening every year since its first recorded appearance in 36 AD. That’s right, it’s an annual tradition older than Christmas. Nature’s laser light show is a result of the 109P/Swift-Tuttle comet, which soars past the planet every 133 years. But we still get to look forward to an annual display because the Earth passes by the comet’s remaining debris field every year. When the planet’s gravitational pull snares the debris, we get a barrage of meteors that appear to be shooting forth from the Perseus constellation, hence the Perseid meteor shower name. 

Whether you’re a veteran stargazer or a rookie, the Perseid meteor shower consistently provides your best opportunity to see shooting stars (a.k.a. meteors) and fireballs (slower-moving falling debris characterized by long, colorful tails). According to reputable stargaze enthusiasts and organizations like NASA, you can catch anywhere between 40 to 200 meteors an hour at the shower’s peak. 

You don’t need any fancy equipment; just a dark sky free from light pollution… and some patience. In fact, the meteors and fireballs of the Perseid meteor shower are better viewed with the naked eye. That’s because they are frequently firing off from all directions. A precise instrument like a telescope or pair of binoculars can’t hope to keep up!

The Schedule for the Perseid Meteor Shower 2024 Season

Photo credit: mLu.fotos

Though the Perseid meteor shower 2024 event officially started on July 15, it’s expected to last through September 1. But most stargaze enthusiasts are planning their efforts around the peak which occurs in the wee hours of Tuesday, August 13. 

Generally, meteors are easier to spot in the early morning period before the dawn. But there’s some added wisdom this year in planning for a post-midnight stargazing spectacle. That’s because we’re contending with the light of a quarter moon during the peak this year. However, Perseid hopefuls are in luck. The moon will set sometime around midnight, creating an optimally black sky perfect for watching the “stars” fall.

Where to See the Perseids

If you’re planning on simply stepping out of your home to catch the Perseid meteor shower, you’re bound to be disappointed. Major cities like Los Angeles create way too much light pollution to see anything approaching the Perseids in all their magnificence. If you’re serious about catching the Perseid meteor shower 2024 spectacle, you’ll need to drive out of town. Palm Springs people, check out our local stargazer guide. Otherwise, Southern Californians would do well to consider some of the following options: 

• Angeles National Forest/Mount Wilson
• Antelope Valley California Poppy Reserve
• Anza-Borrego Desert State Park/Borrego Springs
• Death Valley National Park (certified Dark Sky Park) 
• Joshua Tree National Park
• Volcan Mountain County Preserve/Julian
• Yosemite National Park/Mammoth Lake

Photo credit: Joshua Tree National Park

But if none of these options appeal to you, this light pollution map can help guide your path. When you find your preferred dark spot, just try to stay off your phone. Even the light from your screen can blind you to the falling meteors of the Perseid meteor shower 2024 season. 

Start Planning for ‘28

If you can’t make it out of town to catch the Perseids this year, take heart. The Perseid meteor shower 2024 spectacle likely won’t come close to 2016’s incredible display. However, experts are already banking on 2028 being a monumental year for the Perseids. Start planning now! 

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