Perseids Meteor Shower 2026 to Light Up North Rhine‑Westphalia

The annual Perseid meteor shower will be visible over North Rhine‑Westphalia, Germany, from 17 July to 24 August 2026. The peak occurs during the night of 12 – 13 August, when, under optimal conditions, observers can see up to 100 meteors per hour; typical rates are 20‑30 per hour.

Best viewing points are dark locations away from artificial light, such as the Eifel National Park. The ideal observing window is in the early pre‑dawn hours, around 02:30 am, with clear skies and minimal moonlight. A partial solar eclipse on 12 August will also be visible in Germany, adding another spectacle.

The Perseids arise when Earth’s orbit intersects dust and debris from comet 109P/Swift‑Tuttle, which burn up in the atmosphere and create bright streaks. No telescopes or binoculars are required; the meteors are visible to the naked eye.