Perseidas 2019: how and where to enjoy the rain of summer stars with children

The Perseids or "tears of San Lorenzo", are a spectacular rain of stars that occurs every year at the beginning of August, and that is especially visible in the northern hemisphere of our planet.

Where and how to see them? When is the best day to do it? How to explain to children what Perseids are? We give you all the keys to enjoy this magical spectacle of nature.

When will the Perseids take place?

The Perseids are also known as "tears of San Lorenzo" because they can be seen more easily in days near the festival of San Lorenzo, which is celebrated today August 10. However, this rain of stars began between mid and late July, and will last until August 24.

The phenomenon is visible in the northern hemisphere of the planet, and in Spain we can especially enjoy them between nights from 11 to 12 and from 12 to 13 August.

The best time for observation will be the dawn of August 13, but they point out that this 2019 conditions are not the best due to the Moon, which will be almost in its full phase, so there will be more clarity in the sky.

** Your visibility will be reduced by around 75 percent, according to the International Meteor Organization (IMO). The activity of the Perseids is usually about 100 meteors per hour, however, due to the luminosity of the Moon, only a dozen per hour can be glimpsed.

How to enjoy the rain of stars with the children?

Before observing the rain of stars, it is advisable to follow a series of tips that will facilitate the moment and help children understand what is happening:

  • The first thing we should do is explain to children what Perseids are and why they occur. The explanation will not only help you to understand this phenomenon, but to observe it with greater attention. Remember the importance of using clear and accessible language at your age and understanding.

Star rains occur when the remains of rock particles and dust that comets and asteorides that orbit the sun, come into contact with the atmosphere of our planet and disintegrate, causing the light effect that we appreciate from Earth.

  • Experts recommend that the best is observe them without any optical instrument, not to reduce the field of vision.

  • Find a place as dark as possible, away from tall trees that obstruct vision, as well as any source of artificial light. The best places to see the Perseids could be the countryside, the outskirts of the cities or the beaches.

  • Equip yourself well for a night outing in the open or better, for outdoor sunrise, according to the Institute of Astrophysics of the Canary Islands, the best time to see them will be 6:58 on August 13, that is, just before dawn and with the Moon already set. So, take hammocks or blankets to lie on, as well as warm clothes in case the temperature drops. Don't forget water and snacks either.

  • Direct your gaze to a quadrant of the sky and do not look away for at least 20 minutes, since a change in the direction of our gaze or a turn of the head can cause us to miss a beautiful show in a matter of seconds.

So, look for a dark place, lie on the ground with your eyes on the sky and enjoy this wonderful astronomical "party" as a family. Oh, and don't forget to make a wish!

Photos iStock, Pixabay

Video: Perseid meteor shower will be this summer's best light show (March 2024).