Muscat – The skies above the Sultanate of Oman are currently witnessing the annual Perseid meteor shower, which runs until August 24 and reaches its peak from August 12, Wednesday evening through the early hours of dawn on Thursday, August 13.

Ashwaq Nasser Al Siyabi from the Oman Astronomical Society explained that the phenomenon originates from the famous Swift-Tuttle comet, leaving behind particles that enter Earth’s atmosphere at high speeds to create bright streaks of light and prominent fireballs.

Under ideal conditions, observers can expect to see between 80 to 100 meteors per hour. This year’s peak coincides favourably with the new moon phase, ensuring complete natural darkness and the absence of light pollution.

Experts advise viewing the spectacle from open, dark locations away from artificial city lights, ideally between midnight and dawn when the radiant point in the Perseus constellation rises high in the sky. No special equipment is required, allowing enthusiasts to enjoy the breathtaking celestial event with the naked eye.