Stargazers across the Sultanate are preparing for the year’s most impressive celestial display. The Perseid meteor shower reaches its peak this week, offering clear views of bright meteors and fireballs.
The meteor shower runs until August 24, with the highest activity expected from the night of August 12 through the early morning of August 13. Under clear skies, observers can expect to see between 80 and 100 meteors per hour.
The cause of the Perseids
The event occurs when Earth passes through the orbital path of the Swift-Tuttle comet. The comet orbits the sun once every 133 years, leaving a trail of dust and rocky debris. As Earth moves through this debris, the particles enter the atmosphere at high speed and burn up, creating streaks of light across the night sky.
Dark skies in 2026
This year offers exceptionally good viewing conditions. The peak of the meteor shower coincides with a new moon, meaning there will be no natural moonlight to drown out the fainter streaks.
Where to watch in Oman
For the best view, seek out places with little artificial light. Oman’s geography offers several prime spots:
- Mountain peaks like Jabal Shams and Jabal Akhdar, where the high altitude provides thin, clear air.
- Remote desert stretches in the Sharqiya Sands or the Empty Quarter, far from urban glow.
- Open plains with wide horizons.
Stargazing tips
Viewing requires no special equipment. You can see the shower clearly with the naked eye.
To get the most out of the experience:
- Arrive at your chosen spot early to let your eyes adjust to the darkness. This process takes about twenty minutes.
- Avoid looking at phone screens, as artificial light resets your night vision.
- Bring a reclining chair or a mat to look straight up comfortably.
- Watch during the peak hours, which are from midnight until just before dawn.
Saturn and Capella will also be visible in the sky during these hours, providing extra targets for photographers and skywatchers.
Source: Oman News Agency.
Atefa Saleh al Maskari is a dynamic businesswoman and writer recognized for her innovative approach to entrepreneurship and impactful literary contributions. She inspires others through her exploration of resilience and empowerment, reflecting her commitment to growth in both business and literature.
