Malaysia to witness Perseid meteor shower peak tonight

SHAH ALAM - Malaysians are in for a celestial treat tonight as the Perseid meteor shower reaches its peak.

Renowned for its dazzling displays of shooting stars, the Perseids offer a spectacular show that has fascinated stargazers for centuries.

According to NST, the meteor shower will illuminate Malaysian skies later today.

The Malaysian Space Agency (Mysa) reported that the Moon will set at midnight, providing an unobstructed view of the meteors streaking across the night sky.

“The absence of moonlight will enhance visibility.

“The event is expected to continue into the early hours of Tuesday (Aug 13) and can be observed from various locations," Mysa reportedly said.

The National Aeronautics and Space Administration (Nasa) highlighted that Comet 109P/Swift-Tuttle, which takes 133 years to orbit the Sun, last reached its closest point, or perihelion, in 1992 and will not return until 2125.

With a nucleus about 16 miles (26 kilometres) in diameter, Swift-Tuttle is significantly larger than the asteroid thought to have caused the dinosaurs' extinction.

Nasa described that the Perseid meteor shower, which peaks each August, resulted from debris from Swift-Tuttle burning up in Earth's atmosphere.

Giovanni Schiaparelli first identified the comet as the source of the Perseids in 1865.

“As comets approach the Sun, the dust they emit forms a trail around their orbits.

"Each year, Earth passes through these debris trails, causing the particles to collide with our atmosphere and create fiery, colorful streaks in the sky,” Nasa said.

What to Expect and Where to Watch

This year’s display promises to be particularly spectacular, with up to 100 meteors per hour visible under optimal conditions.

The best viewing time is after midnight when the skies are darkest, and meteors are more visible.

To get the most out of this celestial event, find a location away from city lights.

Parks, open fields, and coastal areas are ideal. In Malaysia, recommended spots include Titiwangsa Lake Gardens in Kuala Lumpur and the beaches of Langkawi and Penang.

To maximise your viewing experience, choose a dark, secluded area, lie down comfortably, and allow your eyes to adjust to the darkness for 20-30 minutes.

Tips for Stargazers

For the best experience, find a dark location away from city lights to reduce light pollution and enhance meteor visibility. Bring a blanket for comfort and patience, as meteors can appear at any time.

For those capturing the meteor shower on camera, a wide-angle lens and tripod are essential.

Set your camera for a long exposure to capture the streaks of light against the night sky.

Gather friends and family, head to a dark spot, and enjoy this breathtaking celestial event. Get ready for a night of stargazing as the Perseids light up the Malaysian skies tonight!