Perseid Meteor Shower Peaks Tonight With Up to 150 Meteors Visible in Israel

The annual Perseid meteor shower is reaching its peak tonight, August 12, offering optimal viewing conditions across Israel. Observers can expect to see up to 150 meteors per hour under ideal dark-sky conditions, as the nearly new moon will set early, minimizing light interference. The Perseids are active annually from July 17 to August 24, with the most intense activity typically between August 9 and 13 this year.

The best time to watch is after nightfall, away from city lights, with the highest meteor activity visible toward the northeast near the constellation Perseus, the shower’s radiant point. No special equipment is needed; viewers are advised to allow their eyes to adjust to the dark for about 30 minutes and to avoid using phones or bright lights.

Prime viewing locations in Israel include desert areas in the south, especially the Ramon Crater, an internationally recognized dark-sky reserve. Several designated night parking areas within the crater are suitable for camping and stargazing, though some require prior reservation or 4x4 vehicles for access. Additional approved observation spots are available in Mitzpe Ramon and along Highway 171, with some restrictions on camping and fires.

The Israeli Space Agency recommends bringing picnic blankets, food, water, and a red-filtered flashlight to preserve night vision. Visitors should respect nature reserve rules by staying in authorized areas and arriving before dark to reduce light pollution from vehicles.

The Perseid meteors are caused by Earth passing through debris left by Comet Swift-Tuttle, with particles entering the atmosphere at about 59 kilometers per second, creating bright streaks of light often called "shooting stars," though they are not actual stars.