Perseid meteor shower to light up Malaysian skies tonight

KUCHING (Aug 12): Stargazers across the country are in for a spectacular night sky tonight as the Perseid meteor shower, one of the most anticipated astronomical events of year, is set to peak over Malaysian skies.

The Malaysian Space Agency (MYSA) said the Perseid meteor shower is expected to stretch into the early hours of Aug 13.

“The meteor shower is expected to deliver a dazzling display of up to 100 meteors per hour,” it said in a Facebook post.

It said this year’s event will be a special one as stargazers will be able to enjoy good viewing conditions, with the Moon setting at midnight, which is right at its peak.

As such, the skies will be dark enough to provide an unobstructed view of this cosmic spectacle.

MYSA explained that the Perseid meteor shower refers to the point where numerous meteors can be observed streaking across the night sky, which is in the area of the Perseus constellation.

“However, its emergence can still occur from various directions. This phenomenon occurs every year as the Earth orbits the Sun and crosses the orbital path of Comet Swift-Tuttle.

“The Comet Swift-Tuttle is estimated to have a nucleus that is 26km in diameter and takes 133 years to complete its orbit around the Sun. This comet last approached the Earth in 1992 and is expected to approach the Earth again in 2126.

“As the comet orbits closer to the Sun, the cometary dust released due to the sublimation process will eventually disperse and form a path filled with the comet’s debris,” it said, adding that this residue will eventually enter the Earth’s atmosphere and burn up forming a long glowing streak.

For the best viewing experience, MYSA recommended those who wish to witness this celestial event to find a safe, open area with a clear view of the sky, no light interference and that their views are not obstructed by tall buildings, trees or houses.

“Allow your eyes to adjust to dark conditions for about 20 minutes before settling in to watch.

“It is also not necessary to focus only on the Perseus constellation to see the meteor shower as it can appear from various directions and at any time,” it said.