Twin meteor showers will light up the July sky: Here’s when to catch shooting stars tonight ahead of the Perseids

Tonight offers a prime opportunity to witness shooting stars, even though the Perseid meteor shower's peak is next month. This is because the Southern Delta Aquariid and Alpha Capricornids meteor showers are predicted to peak tonight and into tomorrow morning. These events occur when Earth travels through the debris trails left by comets. Good visibility tonight is expected due to a nearly quarter-full moon, allowing for an estimated 20 to 30 meteors per hour. In contrast, the Perseid meteor shower, expected to peak on August 12th and 13th, will likely have its viewing hampered by a bright full moon. For optimal viewing of any meteor shower, it's recommended to find a location far from city lights. Once there, lie back and let your eyes adjust to the darkness for about 30 minutes. Looking up and taking in the entire sky is key to spotting the meteors. Patience is also important, as the celestial display can unfold over a period of time.