Perseid meteor shower at its peak, Cypriot astrophysicist says

The astronomical phenomenon of the Perseids, a meteor shower which began on 17 July and will last until 24 August, is currently experiencing its peak, astrophysicist Chrysanthos Fakas has said.

As Fakas explains in comments to CNA, the phenomenon is called "Perseids", because the radiant point from which the stars seem to fall is the Perseus constellation, which is why the people gave the phenomenon this name.

However, as he notes, in reality, they are not falling stars, but pebbles that come into the atmosphere due to the Earth's gravity. "These rocks begin to develop very high speeds, that is 50-60 km/second," Fakas told CNA, adding that due to this enormous speed, they develop very high temperatures and begin to melt in the sky.

"Tonight the world can see other constellations in the sky, such as the constellations of Scorpius and Antares, the planet Saturn and the moon," the astrophysicist notes, clarifying that the moon will set around midnight, favouring the observation of the stars. "So those who are patient will see a lot of Perseids after midnight, as the Perseus constellation will be ideal for viewing," he points out, referring to 13 August.

In addition, Chrysanthos Fakas encouraged the Cypriot public to enjoy the phenomenon outdoors or away from the lights and exhaust fumes. "Those who are in the cities unfortunately cannot observe it well,” he noted.

(Source: CNA)

Read More

Every Step Counts: Fundraising Challenge for paediatric cancer research
Corruption and cost of energy the most serious problems, President Christodoulides says
FIBA EuroBasket trophy in Cyprus on 21 November
New residence permits in the EU increased in 2023 with 34,000 issued by Cyprus
US and Cyprus deepen defence cooperation during Third Security Dialogue
Supreme Constitutional Court upholds decision stripping investor of Cypriot citizenship
Chief Scientist represents Cyprus for first time at CSAR 2024 roundtable
Israel - Ukraine Davis Cup matches to be held in Cyprus due to war situation
Cyprus President to address UNGA on 25 September, meet with Guterres
Leaders of Cyprus and UAE discuss energy, infrastructure and regional developments