The Perseid Meteor Shower Has Begun—Here's How to See Up to 100 Shooting Stars Per Hour

Look into the night sky during the rest of July and throughout August to see a truly spectacular sight—the Perseid meteor shower. Touted as the most spectacular meteor shower of the year, the Perseids are currently underway and expected to peak on August 12, according to EarthSky.org.

The Perseids originate from comet 109P/Swift-Tuttle, which takes 133 years to orbit the sun just once. The comet last visited the inner solar system in 1992, but the Perseids make an appearance in the night sky every year, states NASA.

Peaking annually in mid-August, the Perseid meteor shower is known for its bright meteors that often leave long wakes of light and color behind them as they move through Earth's atmosphere. Considered by NASA to be one of the most abundant meteor showers, the Perseids can produce 50 to 100 shooting stars per hour. In 2016, the Perseids had a record year, producing closer to 200 meteors per hour.

This year, the moon will be 50 percent illuminated during the shower's predicted peak, so it's best to watch the Perseids once the moon sets—from midnight until dawn—on August 12, EarthSky.org recommends.

Stargazers in the Northern Hemisphere will have the best shot at seeing the Perseids. For optimal viewing, go to the darkest possible location away from any city lights. A telescope or binoculars won't be necessary, as the meteor shower will be visible to the naked eye. Get to your viewing spot early and give your eyes about 30 minutes to adjust to the dark.