Rare Double Meteor Shower Peaks Tonight: Here's the Best Time to Watch

It is going to be an exciting night up above as two annual meteor showers are set to reach their peak on Thursday and into the early morning hours Friday. Here is what you need to know if you want to catch this natural wonder.

Tips for Catching Tonight's Double Meteor Shower

The Southern Delta Aquariids and Alpha Capricornids will dance across the sky on the night of July 30 and into the next morning. While both meteor showers typically put on quite a show in the night sky, this year's events will be muted by the timing of the nearly full moon. After reaching peak fullness on Wednesday, the Buck Moon will be at about 98% brightness on Thursday.

The Southern Delta Aquariids are predicted to produce the most shooting stars of the duo, coming in at about 25 meteors per hour. The Southern Delta Aquariids are known for their quick speed, making them more challenging to catch. These meteors are also fainter than some of their counterparts, adding to the challenge of spotting them when the moon is so full.

As such, astronomers believe that this year's Alpha Capricornids may put on the best show. Although this shower only typically produces about five meteors per hour, it makes up for the lower volume by being brighter. The Alpha Capricornids also travel at a slower speed than the Southern Delta Aquariids, making them easier to find as they streak across the sky. Astronomers also advise viewers to look out for the glowing trails often produced by the Alpha Capricornids.

The best bet to watch both of these displays is to head outside between midnight and sunrise. This is when the radiant point of the Southern Delta Aquariids will climb the highest in the southern sky. As with all astronomical events, you will increase the chances of getting a good view if you travel as far away as possible from light pollution. It is also a good idea to position your viewing so that the moon is behind a tree line or structure in order to reduce the glare of this light.

You do not need any special equipment to catch these meteors. In fact, observing them with the naked eye is recommended, as telescopes and binoculars limit the field of vision. The only thing that you need is darkness, clear skies, and patience.