This unique phenomenon is one of the most anticipated each summer by astronomy enthusiasts
One of the most magical nights of the year is approaching. At least for astronomy enthusiasts. The Perseids, or Tears of San Lorenzo, invite us every summer to an all-natural party with small fireworks that cross the sky in the form of shooting stars. The reason? During the second week of August, the Earth passes through a cloud of dust released by
Comet Swift-Tuttle as it approaches the Sun These meteorites slam into our atmosphere at 210,000 kilometers per hour, producing that signature light show that catches the eyes of thousands of onlookers around the world. Upon impact, they increase their temperature to about 5,000 degrees Celsius in a fraction of a second, causing them to disintegrate at a height of between 100 and 80 kilometers. This effect is what causes them to emit a flash. Larger particles, pea-sized or even larger, can produce much brighter contrails, called bolides.
Well, the time to see him is drawing near. Date? Although the phenomenon begins at the end of July, it reaches its peak
the nights of August 11, 12 and 13. AEven so, the so-called Tears of San Lorenzo – given that the 10th is its feast day – can be observed until August 24th. To take advantage of this rendezvous with the cosmos, it is better to move away from sources of light pollution. The best time to see this particular star shower will, according to NASA, be around
4.00-5.00 Spanish time on the 12th and 13th. The early departure will certainly be worth it. Plus, this year the Perseids peak on a weekend, so there’s no excuse to miss them. About 100 meteors per hour should be displayed. Of course, this 2022 there is a catch. According to the astronomy service of the National Geographic Institute (IGN), it will be much more difficult to observe them this year, “since their maximum will occur coinciding with the full moon”.
To contemplate the shower of the Perseids it is not necessary to have utensils such as telescopes or binoculars because they are easy to see given their abundance. However, to favor its contemplation, it is advisable to go to the mountains, natural spaces far from urban centers with darkness and where there are few obstacles such as buildings or tall trees.
The comet that produces the Perseids
The space fragments that interact with our atmosphere to create the Perseids come from comet 109P/Swift-Tuttle, which takes 133 years to orbit the sun once. It last transited the inner solar system in 1992.
It was discovered in 1862 by Lewis Swift and Horace Tuttle. It’s a big comet: its nucleus measures about 26 kilometers in diameter, it is estimated to be almost double the size of the object that hit the Earth and caused the extinction of the dinosaurs.
Where to see them in Malaga
The province has an infinite number of ideal settings for contemplating this astronomical phenomenon. In the case of the capital, a good option is to go to one of the viewpoints of the
Natural Park of the Montes de Malagasuch as the Francisco Vázquez natural viewpoint – which offers a panoramic view of the city – the Cochino or the Pocopán.
The Torcal of Antequera It is another excellent alternative, due to its characteristics. Besides, his
Astronomical observatory organize an activity on these days to take advantage of the phenomenon from 9.30 p.m. with the professional guide (prior registration essential).
If you prefer proximity to the sea
sea cliffs in the eastern area, they are another magnificent natural environment to enjoy the Tears of San Lorenzo. Also some of the marshes of Malaga, such as that of
isolated houseor the surroundings
king’s path.