Shooting stars following the solar eclipse

August 07, 2026

The 12th of August 2026 has more to offer than just a solar eclipse: After dark, the Perseid meteors will light up the sky.

The Perseid meteor shower can be seen every year over several weeks, from late July through late August. The night of the Perseids when the most shooting stars can be observed, is the night of 12 and 13 August. This year,this occurs immediately following the solar eclipse on 12 August. This coincides with a new moon, meaning observing conditions will be ideal. Generally, most Perseid meteors are visible during the second half of the night, but it’s worth keeping an eye out for them as early as 22:00 or 23:00 CEST.

A circular constellation map of the entire sky, with the horizon serving as its boundary. To the left of the center of the image, greenish shooting stars radiate in all directions from the constellation Perseus. The positions of the planets Saturn and Mars are also shown. — A view of the sky in the early morning hours of 13 August 2026, with the radiant of the Perseids high in the sky.

Image: Vereinigung der Sternfreunde

A view of the sky in the early morning hours of 13 August 2026, with the radiant of the Perseids high in the sky.

Image: Vereinigung der Sternfreunde

As always when observing shooting stars, it’s helpful to find a viewing spot with as dark a sky as possible so you can see even the faintest shooting stars. Unfortunately, light pollution from larger towns and cities is a significant hindrance. Since shooting stars are visible across the entire sky, it’s worth choosing an elevated location with as unobstructed a panoramic view all the way to the horizon if possible.

With the naked eye, you can see about 60 to 70 meteors per hour. You don’t need any optical aids like binoculars or telescopes to watch the shooting stars – in fact, they’ll just get in the way. Instead, you should bring a lounge chair or a picnic blanket so you can relax and look up at the sky. Then, all you need – besides a clear sky – is a little patience.