The Next Viewable Meteor Shower Peaks in July — Here's How to Watch It

Updated on May 30, 2023 at 7:05 PM

If you're obsessed with all things celestial, you'll want to tune into the major meteor shower happening this year. Because trust me when I say, it's an astronomical event you won't want to miss. On July 28 and 29 this year, the Delta Aquariids, which are named after a star in the Aquarius constellation called Delta Aquarii, will be most visible to those located in the southern hemisphere.

Although the Delta Aquariids may not be as well known as the Eta Aquarid meteor shower, which occurred in May, or the Lyrid meteor shower, which occurred in April, the event will still provide a show for both experienced stargazers and beginners alike. Here's what to know about the Delta Aquariids, including how to watch it.

— Additional reporting by Taylor Andrews

What Are the Delta Aquariids Meteor Shower?

The Delta Aquariids are an annual occurrence that happen when the Earth passes through a series of debris left by a comet, which ultimately creates shooting stars. And in the right conditions, you can catch a handful of shooting stars per night from July 12 to Aug. 23 because of it.

The shower's peak typically provides stargazers with a decent number of meteors for a couple of days before and after July 28 and 29, meaning all you have to do is look up into the sky. But on its peak days, the Delta Aquariids can produce 10-20 meteors per hour.

How to Watch the Delta Aquariids Meteor Shower

The best way to watch the Delta Aquariids meteor shower is by getting as far away from light and pollution as possible. The darker, the better. We also recommend lying down flat somewhere comfortable outside so you can look up and fully take in the sky.

While the meteor shower is most visible in the southern hemisphere, you can watch it from anywhere. And if you are having difficulty seeing the shooting stars, you may benefit from investing in a telescope or DSLR camera, which could help you see the stars more clearly.