Get Ready For A Dazzling Meteor Shower Starting July 30 Across South Dakota

If you're fascinated by astronomy and the night sky, the next few weeks are going to be something to look forward to.

The much-anticipated meteor shower duet is about to get underway, starting on Wednesday, July 30.

The Southern Delta Aquariid and the Alpha Capricornid meteor showers are about to peak at the same time, resulting in what should be a spectacular light show if Mother Nature decides to play ball and give us clear skies at night for optimal viewing.

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Dakota News Now reports that the moon shouldn't provide too much interference, as the waxing moon will only be about a quarter full, so if the skies are relatively cloud-free at night, the meteors on display should be bright and clear in regions away from bright city lights.

Each of these meteor showers is expected to produce about a dozen visible meteors per hour, so that the total meteor counts will add up under clear, dark skies.

What can we expect?

According to the Dakota News Now story, stargazers can expect to see flashes of light in the night sky. Both of these showers are classified as "very nice classic meteor showers." So, again, if Mother Nature doesn't stick us with overcast sky conditions, the duet shower shouldn't disappoint.

Here's something else to look forward to:

The Alpha Capricornids will produce slower-moving meteors that may have tails that linger slightly longer in the sky, upping the coolness factor for viewing.

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Dakota News Now reports that the best time to view these meteor showers here in South Dakota is in the early predawn hours starting on the morning of July 30.

You'll be able to view this celestial light show for several weeks, as these two showers should be visible through August 12.

What are the best viewing tips?

Looking to wish upon a falling star? You'll want to find a location out in the country away from city lights for optimal viewing. Look for a spot that is wide open and free from obstructions. Once you arrive, give your eyes between 20 to 30 minutes to adjust to the night sky. It's best to use your naked eyes for viewing meteor showers; things like telescopes or binoculars can limit your viewing ability. Finally, be patient. Meteor showers tend to come in bursts, so you may need to wait for a while to observe a steady stream of activity.

If you miss the Southern Delta Aquariid and the Alpha Capricornid meteor showers, you won't have to wait very long for the next heavenly display; another meteor shower, the Perseid, is expected to peak sometime later in August.

Source: Dakota News Now