Stargazers everywhere are excited for the return of this highly-anticipated meteor shower. The 2024 Perseid meteor shower is predicted to occur from July 14th through August 24th, 2024. The peak is estimated to arrive this week between August 11th and 13th. Start planning now for your Sunday meteor watching party at the best stargazing spots around Seattle.
“Space… the final frontier.” Captain Kirk wasn’t wrong, but luckily we don’t have to go on a starship voyage in order “to explore strange new worlds, to seek out new life and new civilizations.” We can simply gaze at the sky this summer to experience a unique astrological phenomenon happening right in our own backyard.
How can I watch the Perseid Meteor Shower around Seattle?
The very best way to observe the meteor shower is at a good viewing spot with very little light pollution. Of course, this can be difficult in the city. But you can take a look at this very useful light pollution map for better insight on where to go.
Plus, there are so many amazing camping spots around Seattle that are just perfect for stargazing. And if you’re willing to drive a little further, there are some beautiful campsites across Washington State. We’re spoiled for choice here.
Additionally, keep in mind that the moon will be at about 50% illumination during the Perseid’s peak this year. However, the moon will set around midnight giving us plenty of dark skies for optimal viewing well into the early morning hours. Grab a cup of stargazing coffee to prepare!
Stargazing Gear and Tips
- Find a place with a dark, open sky and an unobstructed view.
- Turn off lights and electronic devices.
- If you must use a light, put a red filter over your flashlight.
- Let your eyes adjust to the dark for at least 10–15 minutes.
- Find a comfortable spot to recline either with lawn chairs or blankets.
- There’s no need for a telescope or binoculars, as they’ll narrow your field of vision too much.
Where can I watch the Perseid Meteor Shower around Seattle?
Some recommended urban stargazing spots include:
The Seattle Astronomical Society will be hosting their regular star parties at several locations:
- Covington Community Park Star Gaze: Friday, Aug 9 at 09:00 PM to Aug 9 at 11:59 PM
- Duvall Star Party: Friday, Aug 9 at 10:00 PM to Aug 9 at 11:59 PM
- Paramount School Park Star Party: Saturday, Aug 24 at 08:00 PM to Aug 24 at 11:00 PM
- Bonney Lake Stargazing: Saturday, Aug 24 at 09:00 PM to Aug 24 at 11:55 PM
Go camping near Seattle:
Of course, you could always head outside of the city to one of our many gorgeous state and national parks and make a camping trip out of it. Check out all of our favorite campgrounds near Seattle.
What is the Perseid Meteor Shower?
The Perseid Meteor Shower is considered the best and most popular meteor shower of the year by stargazers worldwide. It occurs every July and August and fully peaks in mid-August. The Perseids gets their name from the Perseus constellation which is visible near the meteor shower’s point of origin. This all occurs due to the Swift-Tuttle comet’s orbital path colliding with the Earth’s atmosphere.
Perseids have swift and bright meteors and often leave long “wakes” of light and color trailing behind them. Not only that, but the Perseids are also reknowned for their fireballs which are much larger explosions of light and color. NASA reports that “the Perseids are one of the most plentiful showers with about 50 to 100 meteors seen per hour.” Don’t miss viewing this incredible summer phenomenon!