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What does "Perseids" mean?

Table of Contents

The Perseids are a famous meteor shower that happens every year around mid-August. During this time, people can see many bright streaks of light in the night sky, known as meteors.

Origin

The Perseids come from debris left by a comet called 109P/Swift-Tuttle. When the Earth moves through this debris, it causes the meteors to light up as they enter our atmosphere.

Viewing the Perseids

To see the Perseids at their best, it's good to find a dark place away from city lights. The best time to watch is usually late at night until dawn.

Activity and Observations

In recent years, there have been various observations of the Perseids. In countries like Hungary, devices have been used to measure how many meteors fall per hour. This helps scientists understand the shower's behavior.

Meteoroid Size

Most meteors are small, but some can be larger. Recent studies show that meteoroids during the Perseid shower can weigh up to about 3 kilograms, which is comparable to a small rock.

Conclusion

The Perseid meteor shower is a beautiful and exciting event for sky watchers. Each year, many people look forward to enjoying the display of shooting stars in the night sky.

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