The UAE night sky is set for a rare spectacle as the Perseids meteor shower reaches its peak on the night of Monday, 12 August, continuing into the early hours of Tuesday, 13 August. Known for its vivid fireballs — some brighter than Venus — the Perseids are a highlight for astronomers and casual stargazers alike.
While the shower has been visible since mid-July and will remain active until late August, the two-night peak offers the highest meteor activity. A nearly full moon may wash out the faintest streaks, but the brighter meteors are expected to remain visible.
Best Viewing Times and Locations in the UAE
The clearest views will be after midnight, when the shower’s radiant point is high in the sky. To make the most of the display, residents are advised to head away from city lights to open areas or elevated spots.
Popular viewing locations include:
- Jebel Jais in Ras Al Khaimah, offering cooler mountain air and minimal light pollution
- Desert areas beyond Dubai, such as Al Qudra or Lahbab
- Hatta highlands and Liwa’s vast dunes
For those seeking a guided experience, the Dubai Astronomy Group is hosting a special viewing at Jebel Jais from 11:00 pm to 3:00 am on 12 August, with telescopes, live commentary, and guided stargazing sessions.
The Science Behind the Perseids
The meteor shower occurs when Earth crosses the path of Comet Swift–Tuttle, leaving behind a trail of icy dust particles. Travelling at speeds of around 59 kilometres per second, these fragments burn up in the atmosphere, producing the bright streaks seen from the ground.
The shower takes its name from the constellation Perseus, which appears in the north-eastern sky. Although Comet Swift–Tuttle only returns every 133 years — last seen in 1992 — its debris continues to intersect with Earth’s orbit annually. Astronomers confirm there is no risk to Earth from the comet for thousands of years.
Tips for Photographing the Meteor Shower
For those hoping to capture the Perseids, a few practical steps can improve results:
- Camera: Use a DSLR or mirrorless model with full manual control
- Lens: A wide-angle lens with an aperture of f/2.8 or wider works best
- Tripod: Keep the camera stable for long exposures
- Focus: Switch off autofocus and manually focus on a bright star or infinity
- Settings: Exposure time of 15–30 seconds, ISO at 1600 or higher
- Accessories: Remote shutter release or intervalometer, spare batteries, and a lens heater to prevent fogging in cooler locations
Checklist for a Successful Viewing
- Date: 12–13 August
- Time: Midnight to pre-dawn
- Essentials: Light jacket for mountain areas, folding chair or mat, snacks, and water
- Allow 20–30 minutes for eyes to adjust to the darkness for the best visibility
Even with moonlight in the sky, the Perseids remain one of the brightest and most frequent meteor showers of the year. The clear summer skies of the UAE, combined with easy access to open desert and mountain spots, make this year’s display an ideal opportunity for residents to witness a natural wonder.
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