Bright Perseids from Sweden
NASA
- The annual Perseid meteor shower, known for fast and bright meteors, originates from the constellation Perseus.
- The shower is caused by dust particles from periodic comet 109P/Swift-Tuttle vaporizing in Earth's atmosphere.
- A composite image taken on August 12, 2026, near Grisslehamn, Sweden, captured two bright meteors alongside the Milky Way and the star Altair.
- Ideal viewing conditions were facilitated by a New Moon, which prevented bright moonlight from obscuring the meteor flashes.
- The event occurred following a widely viewed solar eclipse, marking a significant period for skywatchers.
Scientific Context
- Meteors: Streaks of light caused by comet debris entering the atmosphere.
- 109P/Swift-Tuttle: The periodic comet responsible for the annual Perseid display.
- Observation: The featured photo is a composite recording both the meteors and their reflection on the water near the Swedish coast.